Understanding how your home uses electricity is one of the best ways to take control of your monthly energy bill. At Gallatin Department of Electricity, we believe energy education is a powerful tool—and we’re here to help you get the most out of it.
From the type of appliances you use to how you heat and cool your home, every choice makes a difference. Here are a few energy-smart tips to help you stay informed and empowered:
1. Be Smart with Your Thermostat
Heating and cooling account for nearly half of the average home’s energy use. To keep your bill manageable:
- Set your thermostat to 68°F in the winter and 78°F in the summer when you’re home.
- When you’re away, adjust it by 7–10 degrees to save even more.
- Consider a programmable thermostat to help automate these settings.
2. Know Your Heat Source
Electric heat, gas heat, and heat pumps all operate differently—and affect your bill differently. If your home uses electric resistance heat (like baseboard heaters or older HVAC units), it could cause your bill to spike in colder months. Knowing what kind of system you have helps you better anticipate seasonal costs.
3. Check Your Insulation and Sealing
Drafts and poor insulation make your system work harder. Seal leaks around windows and doors, add weather stripping, and ensure your attic is properly insulated. Small fixes can lead to big savings.
4. Appliance Awareness
Older appliances tend to be less efficient. If it’s time to upgrade, look for ENERGY STAR® rated models. Also, be mindful of how and when you use large appliances—running washers, dryers, or dishwashers during off-peak hours can help reduce demand.
5. Track Your Usage
The more you know, the more you can plan. Monitoring your energy use throughout the month helps you spot trends, understand what’s driving your bill, and make changes before the next one arrives.
That’s why we created the GDE Power App—so you can view your usage, compare your consumption by day or hour, and stay informed. Knowledge is power—and now it’s at your fingertips.