--- title: "Controlling Energy Costs: Keep Your Electric Bill from Skyrocketing" description: Learn how to optimize your home's energy-efficiency and reduce electric bills with practical tips on preventative maintenance of your electrical system. image: https://blog.wilcox-electric.com/hubfs/Controlling-Energy-Costs-Keep-Your-Electric-Bill-From-Skyrocketing-Wilcox-Electric-Washington-DC.jpg --- [Skip to content](https://blog.wilcox-electric.com/wilcox-electric/controlling-energy-costs-keep-your-electric-bill-from-skyrocketing#main-content) [![Wilcox Electric Logo](https://blog.wilcox-electric.com/hs-fs/hubfs/wilcox-blog.png?width=200&height=75&name=wilcox-blog.png)](https://www.wilcox-electric.com/) - [Home](https://www.wilcox-electric.com/) - [About Us](https://www.wilcox-electric.com/about) - [Services](https://www.wilcox-electric.com/electrical-services) - [Smart Home Services](https://www.wilcox-electric.com/smart-home) - [Blog](https://blog.wilcox-electric.com/wilcox-electric) - [Contact Us](https://www.wilcox-electric.com/contact-us) Open main navigation Close main navigation - [Home](https://www.wilcox-electric.com/) - [About Us](https://www.wilcox-electric.com/about) - [Services](https://www.wilcox-electric.com/electrical-services) - [Smart Home Services](https://www.wilcox-electric.com/smart-home) - [Blog](https://blog.wilcox-electric.com/wilcox-electric) - [Contact Us](https://www.wilcox-electric.com/contact-us) May 23, 2024 7:45:00 AM # Controlling Energy Costs: Keep Your Electric Bill from Skyrocketing [Wilcox Electric](https://blog.wilcox-electric.com/wilcox-electric/author/wilcox-electric) Share: [facebook-f icon](http://www.facebook.com/share.php?u=https://blog.wilcox-electric.com/wilcox-electric/controlling-energy-costs-keep-your-electric-bill-from-skyrocketing) [linkedin-in icon](http://www.linkedin.com/shareArticle?mini=true&url=https://blog.wilcox-electric.com/wilcox-electric/controlling-energy-costs-keep-your-electric-bill-from-skyrocketing) [Twitter icon](https://twitter.com/intent/tweet?url=https://blog.wilcox-electric.com/wilcox-electric/controlling-energy-costs-keep-your-electric-bill-from-skyrocketing) [pinterest-p icon](http://pinterest.com/pin/create/link/?url=https://blog.wilcox-electric.com/wilcox-electric/controlling-energy-costs-keep-your-electric-bill-from-skyrocketing) [envelope icon](mailto:?body=https://blog.wilcox-electric.com/wilcox-electric/controlling-energy-costs-keep-your-electric-bill-from-skyrocketing) ![Controlling-Energy-Costs-Keep-Your-Electric-Bill-From-Skyrocketing-Wilcox-Electric-Washington-DC](https://blog.wilcox-electric.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Controlling-Energy-Costs-Keep-Your-Electric-Bill-From-Skyrocketing-Wilcox-Electric-Washington-DC.jpg?width=1600&height=951&name=Controlling-Energy-Costs-Keep-Your-Electric-Bill-From-Skyrocketing-Wilcox-Electric-Washington-DC.jpg)If you're feeling the squeeze of rising energy costs, you're certainly not alone. Prices are going up, and at the same time, environmental concerns are taking center stage. Optimizing your home's [electrical system](https://blog.wilcox-electric.com/wilcox-electric/top-8-signs-that-you-may-not-have-safe-electrical-systems) for peak efficiency is no longer a trend, it's a practical necessity. Fortunately, it's possible to reduce your home's energy consumption while lowering the cost of running your household.  A more [energy-efficient](https://blog.wilcox-electric.com/wilcox-electric/ways-to-efficiently-create-a-smart-home-heres-how-to-get-started) home will positively impact both your wallet and the planet, so it's a win-win! Here are a few practical ways to ensure your system is efficient, safe, and equipped to handle the demands of today's world. - **Know Your Enemy:** Starting your project with a comprehensive energy audit is kind of like becoming a detective in your own home, investigating where you might be losing energy. This crucial first step isn't just about spotting the obvious culprits like old, inefficient appliances; it's also about uncovering hidden drafts or outdated systems that stealthily increase your electric bills. Understanding these areas of inefficiency is essential when you're crafting a targeted plan that boosts your home's overall energy efficiency. Getting a professional energy audit gives you the insights you need to prioritize upgrades and interventions that will have the greatest impact.  - **Brighten Up with LED Lighting:** [Switching to LED lighting](https://blog.wilcox-electric.com/wilcox-electric/thinking-about-upgrading-to-energy-efficient-led-recessed-lighting) is one of the simplest yet most effective upgrades you can make to boost your home's energy efficiency. [LED bulbs](https://blog.wilcox-electric.com/wilcox-electric/do-fluorescent-lights-drive-you-crazy-maybe-its-time-to-try-led) aren't just frugal in terms of power use, either. They also last far longer than their older, incandescent counterparts to lower both your energy bills and the frequency of bulb replacement. This straightforward swap can noticeably impact your home's overall energy consumption, keeping your home bright and well-lit more sustainably and cost-effectively.  - **Embrace the Power of Smart Thermostats:** Do you ever feel like you're constantly battling the thermostat, adjusting it throughout the day just to stay comfortable? Smart thermostats are your new best friend. These clever devices learn your routine and preferences, automatically adjusting the temperature to keep you comfortable. When you're not home, smart thermostats will adjust the temperature with a focus on energy efficiency.  - **Fight “Energy Vampires” with Advanced Power Strips:** When some electronic devices are plugged into an outlet, they're still leeching power, even if their power switch is in the "off" position. This covert energy use is known as a "phantom load," which adds up quickly when there are a number of such devices in your home. This is where advanced power strips become the vampire slayers of electronics. Equipped with smart technology, next-generation power strips can detect when devices are in standby mode and cut off their power supply, eliminating the issue of phantom loads.  - **Level Up Old Appliances:** Your old appliances may hold a special place in your home but they could be secretly draining your energy budget. When shopping for new appliances, look for the [ENERGY STAR®](https://www.energystar.gov/) label—it's your guarantee that the appliance meets stringent energy guidelines set by the EPA.  - **Safeguard Your Home with Routine Maintenance and Care:** Just as everyone needs an annual checkup, your home's [electrical system](https://wilcox-electric.com/energy-management-systems/) benefits from [regular professional maintenance](https://wilcox-electric.com/safety-assessment/). A qualified electrician can identify minor issues before they snowball into major (and expensive) problems. Think of it as preventive care for your home's electrical system, ensuring it runs smoothly and efficiently for years to come. ## Expert Help to Optimize Your Home's Electrical System Optimizing your home's [electrical efficiency](https://blog.wilcox-electric.com/wilcox-electric/say-goodbye-to-winters-blues-invest-in-energy-efficiency-this-spring) is a comprehensive process that goes beyond adding new gadgets. It's about ensuring everything works together seamlessly and safely, all while minimizing costs. From conducting detailed energy audits to [installing cutting-edge energy-saving technologies](https://wilcox-electric.com/smart-panels/), consulting with a professional electrician can provide solutions that not only enhance efficiency but also promote long-term savings. --- Ready to take control of your energy usage and ensure your electrical system is as efficient and safe as possible? [Contact us](https://wilcox-electric.com/contact-us/) to schedule a consultation with Wilcox Electric, and let's work together to make your home energy-smart and cost-effective! [![Request an Estimate](https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/4867982/d34b060f-da6a-4eba-a72d-c0cf32539b9a.png)](https://cta-redirect.hubspot.com/cta/redirect/4867982/d34b060f-da6a-4eba-a72d-c0cf32539b9a) [Energy efficiency](https://blog.wilcox-electric.com/wilcox-electric/tag/energy-efficiency), [Energy usage](https://blog.wilcox-electric.com/wilcox-electric/tag/energy-usage), [Energy efficient appliances](https://blog.wilcox-electric.com/wilcox-electric/tag/energy-efficient-appliances), [Energy-saving](https://blog.wilcox-electric.com/wilcox-electric/tag/energy-saving), [Energy efficient lights](https://blog.wilcox-electric.com/wilcox-electric/tag/energy-efficient-lights), [Energy-Efficient Cooling Solutions](https://blog.wilcox-electric.com/wilcox-electric/tag/energy-efficient-cooling-solutions), [Reducing Energy Bills](https://blog.wilcox-electric.com/wilcox-electric/tag/reducing-energy-bills), [Controlling Energy Costs](https://blog.wilcox-electric.com/wilcox-electric/tag/controlling-energy-costs) ## Related posts [![Fall-Home-Electrical-Safety-Inspection-Wilcox-Electric-DC](https://blog.wilcox-electric.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Fall-Home-Electrical-Safety-Inspection-Wilcox-Electric-DC.jpg?height=200&name=Fall-Home-Electrical-Safety-Inspection-Wilcox-Electric-DC.jpg)](https://blog.wilcox-electric.com/wilcox-electric/fall-home-electrical-safety-inspection-prepare-for-a-cozy-season) [Electrical panel upgrades](https://blog.wilcox-electric.com/wilcox-electric/tag/electrical-panel-upgrades), [Electrical safety](https://blog.wilcox-electric.com/wilcox-electric/tag/electrical-safety), [Home inspection](https://blog.wilcox-electric.com/wilcox-electric/tag/home-inspection), [Whole home electrical safety inspection](https://blog.wilcox-electric.com/wilcox-electric/tag/whole-home-electrical-safety-inspection), [Whole home inspection](https://blog.wilcox-electric.com/wilcox-electric/tag/whole-home-inspection), [Electrical Panels](https://blog.wilcox-electric.com/wilcox-electric/tag/electrical-panels), [Whole home electrical inspection](https://blog.wilcox-electric.com/wilcox-electric/tag/whole-home-electrical-inspection), [Electric Upgrades](https://blog.wilcox-electric.com/wilcox-electric/tag/electric-upgrades), [Electrical Upgrade](https://blog.wilcox-electric.com/wilcox-electric/tag/electrical-upgrade), [Whole Home Electrical Assessment](https://blog.wilcox-electric.com/wilcox-electric/tag/whole-home-electrical-assessment), [Electrical System](https://blog.wilcox-electric.com/wilcox-electric/tag/electrical-system), [Wiring Inspection](https://blog.wilcox-electric.com/wilcox-electric/tag/wiring-inspection), [Electrical Inspection](https://blog.wilcox-electric.com/wilcox-electric/tag/electrical-inspection), [Home Electrical Inspection](https://blog.wilcox-electric.com/wilcox-electric/tag/home-electrical-inspection), [Electrical Wiring](https://blog.wilcox-electric.com/wilcox-electric/tag/electrical-wiring) ## [Fall Home Electrical Safety Inspection: Prepare for a Cozy Season](https://blog.wilcox-electric.com/wilcox-electric/fall-home-electrical-safety-inspection-prepare-for-a-cozy-season) [Wilcox Electric](https://blog.wilcox-electric.com/wilcox-electric/author/wilcox-electric) Oct 5, 2023 8:00:00 AM As the vibrant colors of autumn surround us and the air turns crisp, it's time to embrace the... [Read more](https://blog.wilcox-electric.com/wilcox-electric/fall-home-electrical-safety-inspection-prepare-for-a-cozy-season) [![Selling-Your-Home-Why-Electrical-Upgrades-May-Be-Worth-It-Wilcox-Electric-DC](https://blog.wilcox-electric.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Selling-Your-Home-Why-Electrical-Upgrades-May-Be-Worth-It-Wilcox-Electric-DC.jpg?height=200&name=Selling-Your-Home-Why-Electrical-Upgrades-May-Be-Worth-It-Wilcox-Electric-DC.jpg)](https://blog.wilcox-electric.com/wilcox-electric/selling-your-home-why-electrical-upgrades-may-be-worth-the-investment) [Energy efficiency](https://blog.wilcox-electric.com/wilcox-electric/tag/energy-efficiency), [Electrical panel upgrades](https://blog.wilcox-electric.com/wilcox-electric/tag/electrical-panel-upgrades), [Upgrade wiring](https://blog.wilcox-electric.com/wilcox-electric/tag/upgrade-wiring), [selling-a-home](https://blog.wilcox-electric.com/wilcox-electric/tag/selling-a-home), [Whole home electrical safety inspection](https://blog.wilcox-electric.com/wilcox-electric/tag/whole-home-electrical-safety-inspection), [Whole home inspection](https://blog.wilcox-electric.com/wilcox-electric/tag/whole-home-inspection), [Upgrade Outlets](https://blog.wilcox-electric.com/wilcox-electric/tag/upgrade-outlets), [Energy-saving](https://blog.wilcox-electric.com/wilcox-electric/tag/energy-saving), [Whole home electrical inspection](https://blog.wilcox-electric.com/wilcox-electric/tag/whole-home-electrical-inspection), [Electrical Upgrade](https://blog.wilcox-electric.com/wilcox-electric/tag/electrical-upgrade), [Selling Home](https://blog.wilcox-electric.com/wilcox-electric/tag/selling-home), [Electrical Upgrades](https://blog.wilcox-electric.com/wilcox-electric/tag/electrical-upgrades), [Energy-efficient lighting](https://blog.wilcox-electric.com/wilcox-electric/tag/energy-efficient-lighting) ## [Selling Your Home? Why Electrical Upgrades May Be Worth the Investment](https://blog.wilcox-electric.com/wilcox-electric/selling-your-home-why-electrical-upgrades-may-be-worth-the-investment) [Wilcox Electric](https://blog.wilcox-electric.com/wilcox-electric/author/wilcox-electric) May 1, 2025 7:15:00 AM When you're getting ready to sell your home, it's natural to focus on what people see first, like... [Read more](https://blog.wilcox-electric.com/wilcox-electric/selling-your-home-why-electrical-upgrades-may-be-worth-the-investment) [![Powering-Up-for-Back-to-School-Make-Sure-Your-Home-is-Ready-Wilcox-Electric-DC](https://blog.wilcox-electric.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Powering-Up-for-Back-to-School-Make-Sure-Your-Home-is-Ready-Wilcox-Electric-DC.jpg?height=200&name=Powering-Up-for-Back-to-School-Make-Sure-Your-Home-is-Ready-Wilcox-Electric-DC.jpg)](https://blog.wilcox-electric.com/wilcox-electric/powering-up-for-back-to-school-make-sure-your-home-is-ready) [Energy efficiency](https://blog.wilcox-electric.com/wilcox-electric/tag/energy-efficiency), [Electrical panel upgrades](https://blog.wilcox-electric.com/wilcox-electric/tag/electrical-panel-upgrades), [Electrical Panels](https://blog.wilcox-electric.com/wilcox-electric/tag/electrical-panels), [Circuit Breakers](https://blog.wilcox-electric.com/wilcox-electric/tag/circuit-breakers), [USB Ports](https://blog.wilcox-electric.com/wilcox-electric/tag/usb-ports), [USB](https://blog.wilcox-electric.com/wilcox-electric/tag/usb), [LED Lights](https://blog.wilcox-electric.com/wilcox-electric/tag/led-lights), [LED Lighting](https://blog.wilcox-electric.com/wilcox-electric/tag/led-lighting), [Whole home electrical inspection](https://blog.wilcox-electric.com/wilcox-electric/tag/whole-home-electrical-inspection), [Electrical Upgrade](https://blog.wilcox-electric.com/wilcox-electric/tag/electrical-upgrade), [Back-to-School](https://blog.wilcox-electric.com/wilcox-electric/tag/back-to-school), [Electrical Wiring](https://blog.wilcox-electric.com/wilcox-electric/tag/electrical-wiring), [Electrical Capacity](https://blog.wilcox-electric.com/wilcox-electric/tag/electrical-capacity), [Electrical Capacity Requirements](https://blog.wilcox-electric.com/wilcox-electric/tag/electrical-capacity-requirements), [Electrical Upgrades](https://blog.wilcox-electric.com/wilcox-electric/tag/electrical-upgrades), [Whole Home Safety Assessment](https://blog.wilcox-electric.com/wilcox-electric/tag/whole-home-safety-assessment), [Lighting Design](https://blog.wilcox-electric.com/wilcox-electric/tag/lighting-design) ## [Powering Up for Back-to-School: Make Sure Your Home is Ready](https://blog.wilcox-electric.com/wilcox-electric/powering-up-for-back-to-school-make-sure-your-home-is-ready) [Wilcox Electric](https://blog.wilcox-electric.com/wilcox-electric/author/wilcox-electric) Aug 29, 2024 7:45:00 AM As summer winds down and the new school year approaches, it's time to get your home ready for the... [Read more](https://blog.wilcox-electric.com/wilcox-electric/powering-up-for-back-to-school-make-sure-your-home-is-ready) --- [![Wilcox Electric Footer Logo](https://blog.wilcox-electric.com/hs-fs/hubfs/wilcox-blog-1.png?width=200&height=75&name=wilcox-blog-1.png "Wilcox Electric Footer Logo")](http:///) 5602 Tuxedo Road Hyattsville, MD 20781 wilcox@wilcox-electric.com 301-583-8888 // 202-546-1010       Copyright © 2023 Wilcox Electric.