Working from home is a popular option in the business world. It’s convenient and lets you work where you’re most comfortable. It’s also helpful for reducing your commuting emissions. However, while working from home, you may notice an increase in your energy bill.
Being home for a job means more technology, appliance, and overall electricity usage. There are ways, though, to curb these costs in 2020 and create an energy-efficient remote work environment.
Check Your Energy Bill
As people transition in and out of remote work, energy bills are going to fluctuate. Are you a permanent work-from-home employee? Is it on a temporary basis? Do you work with a hybrid model? These questions matter because they affect your energy bill. The more you’re home, the higher electricity costs may be.
Reevaluate your most recent bill. What can you make changes to? What must stay the same? Using your previous bill as your basis will help you make changes in the present and for the future. For instance, if you notice your water bill is higher than normal, you can be more conscious about leaving water running or keeping your computer on at night.
Unplug
Vampire energy is a sneaky concept that entails idling appliances and technology draining your energy. Though they’re not in use, they’re still plugged in and on standby — meaning they suck power and increase your energy bill. This drainage can cost households around $200 per year — or more if you have many appliances.
One of the easiest ways to reduce this extra cost is to unplug your devices. Your printer, computer, television — anything that stays plugged-in will be a vampire appliance. During the workday, simply plug these electronics in when you need them. Then, unplug them when they’re not in use.
Use Smart Power
Remembering to unplug your devices and plug them back in can be a tad tedious at times. However, investing in tools that can do the work for you is a more convenient option that ends in the same results.
Different devices use various wattage when left idling. A smart power strip is a relatively new innovation that works with your devices to save energy. It turns off devices on standby and anything you’re not using.
The extra 10% of costs on your energy bill can then decrease. Let power strips do the work for you, so you can focus on your jobs and tasks during the day.
Let in the Light
When you find the best spot in your home to work, you should aim to incorporate as much natural lighting as possible. Gloomy days will of course come around, but most days, natural light will suffice. Using artificial lights less often will benefit your energy bill. However, it will also boost your mood!
Humans need light for natural processes in the body. In more ways than one, sunlight is healthy for you, creating a positive environment to work in.
If you need more light, try lamps or smaller fixtures that take up less energy. Additionally, LEDs are efficient and environmentally friendly. LED bulbs last 25 times longer and use 75% less energy than incandescents.
Install a Smart Thermostat
Smart technology is everywhere you look. Whether it’s your TV or your car, integration is the new norm. Luckily, these innovations have reached household items as well. A smart thermostat is a beneficial investment that saves you money while you heat and cool your home.
These thermostats have intuitive abilities. Some offer geofencing technology — where they raise the temperature once they detect you’re out of the house. You can control these thermostats on your mobile device as well. A few degrees can make all the difference — the EPA estimates you could save $180 per year.
Switch to Energy Efficient Products
If you’re looking to make a big change, renewable energy like solar panels is always an option. On top of giving you tax credits, solar energy is a great way to conserve. However, there are smaller steps you can take as well.
Switching to renewable energy products is an invaluable step. From dishwashers and refrigerators to laptops and lightbulbs, you’ll find every device your home needs to save energy. This change can save you almost $600 per year — the more energy-efficient products you have, the more you conserve.
Then, work with the settings on your efficient devices. Do they have power-saver or sleep modes? Turn those on to conserve energy. Wash your clothes in cold water, too — every step helps.
Making the Change
The steps you take towards saving energy will depend on your home. Start small and work your way up. Action brings about change. For a more affordable energy bill while working from home in 2020, take these steps. You’ll see the improvements in no time.
Need A Massage? Learn How To Give One To Yourself And Your Loved Ones
Receiving a massage, whether it’s given by someone else or self-administered, can help loosen your muscles and establish a better connection not only with your body but also with the people you love.
