(NC) Energy costs are some of the biggest expenses we have but, like food and shelter, they are a necessity. Here are some tips to help you reduce what you pay each month.

Shut off
Even energy-efficient appliances, from your oven to your washer and dryer, can use a lot of power. So, consider what you need to use. Opt for smaller appliances like a crockpot or toaster oven when you can – they typically use less energy than your range. And, look for times you don’t need an appliance at all, like hanging your laundry on a rack or line to dry.

Maintain
Make sure to regularly clean the filters on your heating and cooling system. The dirtier they are, the more power these systems must use to do their job. Keeping them serviced and well-maintained helps them work most efficiently.

Cool down
Turning down the heat by a few degrees at night should help you sleep better, and not because you’re saving energy – it’s thought that humans get a better rest in a cooler space. A programmable thermostat makes it a hassle-free task.

Unplug
Phantom power is a common cause of hidden energy use – leave your phone charger plugged in even when your device isn’t connected? Coffee maker still plugged in on the counter? These items are all still drawing some power from the outlet – so be sure to unplug them when you’re done. You can get power strips with programmable timers, so you don’t have to remember every day.

Opt out
The regulated rate option, or RRO, is the default energy rate for Albertans, and it can spike significantly based on market conditions month to month. Opting out of the RRO and switching to a switching to a competitive provider like ATCOenergy can get you fixed rates, so you know precisely what rate you’ll pay every month and don’t have to worry about energy price spikes.