In Lincoln, Nebraska, where winters are frigid and summers can sizzle, keeping your energy bills in check is a top priority for homeowners. With heating, cooling, and daily electrical demands driving up costs, smart energy-saving strategies can make a big difference. At Sentry Electric, we’re committed to helping Lincoln residents reduce their energy use while staying comfortable year-round. Here are five electrical tips to save energy in your Nebraska home and lower your utility bills.
Why Energy Efficiency Matters in Nebraska
Nebraska’s climate, with its cold winters and hot, humid summers, puts a strain on home electrical systems. According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, the average Nebraska household spends over $1,500 annually on electricity, with heating and cooling accounting for nearly half. By optimizing your home’s electrical setup, you can cut costs, reduce environmental impact, and improve comfort—no matter the season. Let’s dive into our top five tips to help you save energy in Lincoln.
- Upgrade to LED Lighting
If you’re still using incandescent or even CFL bulbs, you’re wasting energy. LED bulbs use up to 80% less electricity and last 10-25 times longer, making them a no-brainer for Nebraska homes. From kitchen fixtures to outdoor floodlights, switching to LEDs can shave dollars off your monthly bill.
Quick Win: Replace high-use bulbs first, like those in living rooms or hallways. Our team at Sentry Electric can install dimmable LED systems for added savings and ambiance.
- Install a Programmable Thermostat
Heating and cooling account for a huge chunk of energy use in Lincoln homes, especially during Nebraska’s extreme winters. A programmable or smart thermostat lets you set temperature schedules, reducing energy waste when you’re away or asleep. Some models even learn your habits and adjust automatically.
Pro Tip: Set your thermostat 7-10°F lower in winter when you’re not home for instant savings. Need help choosing and installing the right model? Sentry Electric offers expert thermostat installations tailored to your home’s needs.
- Seal Electrical Outlets and Switches
Did you know that electrical outlets and light switches on exterior walls can leak air, forcing your HVAC system to work harder? In Nebraska’s windy climate, these small gaps add up, increasing energy costs. Installing foam gaskets behind outlet and switch plates is a simple, low-cost fix that improves insulation.
Why Choose Us? Our Lincoln electricians at Sentry Electric can inspect your home for air leaks and recommend energy-saving upgrades, including outlet sealing and weatherproofing solutions.
- Schedule an Electrical Energy Audit
An energy audit is like a checkup for your home’s electrical system. It identifies inefficiencies, such as outdated wiring, overloaded circuits, or appliances that guzzle power. In older Lincoln homes, especially those built before the 1990s, wiring may not support modern energy-efficient appliances, leading to higher bills.
During an audit, our licensed electricians will:
- Check for vampire loads (devices that draw power when off).
- Assess your electrical panel’s efficiency.
- Recommend upgrades like AFCI breakers or energy-efficient circuits.
Get Started: Contact Sentry Electric for a comprehensive energy audit to uncover hidden savings in your Nebraska home.
- Consider Ceiling Fans for Year-Round Savings
Ceiling fans aren’t just for summer. In Nebraska, they can help you save energy year-round. In summer, fans create a cooling breeze, letting you raise your thermostat a few degrees. In winter, reversing the fan direction pushes warm air down, reducing heating costs.
Installation Tip: Ceiling fans are heavy and shake. Because of this the National Electric code requires extra support for ceiling fans. Ensure fans are wired correctly for optimal performance and safety. Sentry Electric specializes in ceiling fan installations and can recommend energy-efficient models for your Lincoln home.
Bonus Tip: Take Advantage of Utility Rebates
Many Nebraska utility providers, like Lincoln Electric System, offer rebates for energy-efficient upgrades, such as LED lighting, smart thermostats, or high-efficiency appliances. Check with your provider to see what’s available and maximize your savings.
Start Saving with Sentry Electric
Lowering your energy bills in Nebraska doesn’t have to be complicated. By implementing these electrical tips, you can make your Lincoln home more efficient, comfortable, and budget-friendly. From LED upgrades to energy audits, small changes can lead to big savings over time.
At Sentry Electric, we’re proud to serve Lincoln, Nebraska, with expert electrical services designed to help you save energy and money. Our licensed electricians understand the unique needs of Midwest homes and are here to guide you every step of the way.
Ready to cut your energy bills? Contact us today for a free estimate or to schedule an energy audit. Call 402-467-5550 or visit www.SentryElectric.com to learn more about our services. Let’s power up your savings, Lincoln!