How we saved over $3,300 per year on our electricity bill.

We had an ever-increasing bill that was heading to $500 per month. It topped out at $304.18 and we got it down to $24.38.
Thank God.

So we saved over $3,300 per year, and assuming 5% inflation the equivalent of $229,824.75 over 30 years.

Here is how we did it.

Identify high energy users
- In our case it was the HVAC system, Freezer, Fridge, Dryer, Dehumidifier and water heater. The builder refused to fix various issues and prevented us from getting an independent evaluation.
- To identify we used the utility website, which provides usage in 15 minute intervals. Then by turning off the breakers or noting when the usage changed we were able to determine the high usage devices.
- Additionally we got a watt-meter to check devices at the plug level
- Finally a thermal camera.
Corrective Actions
- We scheduled the water heater and turned off when not in use, such as overnight.
- We used the thermal gun to identify the areas, that needed more insulation. Then added insulation where possible.
- We also heavily insulated the water heater.
- We upgraded the Dryer to a Heat Pump Dryer, the HVAC to Solar, Dehumidifier to Energy star model, Freezer to Chest Freezer and The Fridge and to a modified chest freezer.
- Additionally we turned off devices when not in use using smart plugs and the breaker to reduce phantom energy use. Basically most devices use power when plugged in and even if nothing is plugged in energy is used at the breaker level.
- Finally we added solar panels.
Lesson learned going forward
- Design / Pick an energy efficient home.
- Get multiple inspections during the build or quality inspector for built homes. DO NOT use the realtor’s inspector. Also, if the inspector charges extra for a thermal camera, do not use.
Tools that were helpful.
Some Home inspections videos