MONITORING AND

attention to the number of kilowatt-hours (kWh) you use each month. While you may not have control over the cost of a kWh, you do have the power to influence how many you consume. By lowering your kWh use, you can ultimately decrease the amount you spend on electricity. As the saying goes, “The cheapest kilowatt is the one that is never used.” This article will guide you through the process of identifying energy-consuming devices, implementing efficiency measures, and utilizing tools like SmartHub to monitor and manage your electric use effectively.

Start by taking stock of all the appliances and devices consuming electricity in and around your home. Make a list that includes refrigerators, freezers, computers, laptops, television sets,

Once you have identified the energy-consuming devices in your home, set a goal to reduce or eliminate their use. Consider habits like shutting down computers and gaming systems when not in use, rather than leaving them in sleep mode. Evaluate whether certain appliances, such as DVD or CD players, are rarely used and could be disconnected. For larger electrical items, explore options to optimize their efficiency, such as adding timers or programmable thermostats to better align with your living habits.

Heating and cooling systems typically contribute significantly to energy consumption. Review your thermostat settings and adjust them to reflect your schedule. When away from home, raise the temperature during summer months or lower it in winter to reduce the workload on your HVAC system. Explore alternatives like using ceiling fans or adjusting windows to maintain a comfortable temperature without relying solely on your HVAC system. Remember, aligning your indoor and outdoor temperatures can substantially reduce energy use.

Weather has a substantial impact on your electric bill. During extreme weather conditions, we often rely on electrical devices to maintain comfort indoors. By reducing unnecessary use during these times and finding alternative ways to stay comfortable, you can make a significant difference in your energy consumption. Challenge yourself to keep devices off or turn them off when not needed, and you’ll see substantial savings in the long run.

Utilize SmartHub

Take advantage of Pioneer’s SmartHub tool, available through the SmartHub app on the website. This powerful tool allows you to monitor your daily electric use in kWh. By analyzing your usage