By: Jason Lee

Halloween is over which means the holidays are officially here. That means the relatives are on their way and you’ll be using your large appliances more often causing your electric bill to look scary long after Halloween has ended. Don’t let the increase in relative visits and vampire electric devices drive up the electric bill.

To keep the electric bill down, remember to only use the dishwasher when it is full. Running the dishwasher when it is only half full will amount to a lot more energy consumption.

Items like washers and dryers are guilty of consuming more energy during the holidays too. Washing clothes in cold water and setting the dryer on low heat will help in reducing the electric bill.

Knowing when to say goodbye to your old system is another way to save on energy. Older appliances run up the electric bill. If you have an appliance that is over 10 years old, consider replacing it with a newer, energy efficient model.      

It is also a good idea to have all large household appliances connected to their own dedicated circuit. To many of these large appliances operating at the same time on the same circuit can cause a blown fuse or a tripped breaker. A dedicated circuit for each large electrical household appliance will keep this from happening.

Lastly, don’t let your everyday electrical devices like laptops, cell phones or tablets get greedy and hog the power outlets. Only charge these items when they need it.                                                     

You’ll have enough to worry about as the holidays set in. Take the electric bill off the list by doing these simple energy savings tips from Mr. Electric.

Cappuccino Doughnuts courtesy of Ann Stratton from CountryLiving.com

Find your angle. 

Playing with the direction and angle of your light source is essential. With the right play between light and shadow, you can accent the most titillating parts of your dish, while camouflaging any flaws. Texture greatly contributes to the delicious appearance of most any meal. Notice how the angle of the light below highlights the different textures within this broiled flank-steak sandwich.