Working from home has many advantages. It can help you to work flexibly, many people find that they work more productively from home, and it can even save you money by reducing what you spend on commuting, eating out, and clothes for work. When you work from home you might have noticed a spike in your energy costs. But there is good news, you can follow these tips to cut your energy costs when working from home.
Work at the Right Times
In the summer, it can be much easier to work from home without having to spend a fortune on energy. But there are things that you can do to make working from home more comfortable in cooler weather. The first is working at the right times and in the right places. If possible, work when it is warmest, and the sun is at its highest. Then, try to follow it around your home, instead of sitting in a cold office.
This is true if you live in a cold place, but this would be reversed if you live in a hot place near the equator. Your energy bills would surge in summer as it gets very hot and you need AC to keep your working environment cool. But in winter months your energy cost would come down as the temperatures are more convenient for you to work.
Keep Your Office Warm
If it’s not possible to follow the sun, or it’s grey and cold, then warm your office without warming the rest of your home. Turn all of the other heaters off, close the door, and use a draught excluder to keep the heat in.
Get Out of the House
If you don’t need to be in the house to work, going to places like the library to use their heating and internet can be ideal. Even buying coffee to work in a coffee shop can be cheaper than heating your home.
Get Support from Your Employer
If you are an employee, working from home instead of in the office, you should speak to your employer about assistance paying for utility and internet bills. If you are self-employed, you might be able to claim some of your costs back as tax deductibles. Make sure you are getting any help that you might be entitled to.
Switch to Energy Saving
Make sure any bulbs in your home are energy-saving and swap out any that aren’t. Also use energy-efficient AC, fans and other electronic equipment that would consume less.
Turn Your Thermostat Down
Turning your thermostat down by even a degree can help you to save money over the course of a cold period. Try wearing light jumpers that don’t restrict your movement, as well as using hot water bottles and blankets.
Turn the TV Off
Many people who work from home have the TV or radio on in the background to help to build an atmosphere and stop them from feeling alone. It can boost mood and even increase productivity. But these appliances cost money. Try to limit usage and turn things off completely as much as possible.
Drink More Water
Hot drinks help you to keep warm, but they also use power and can lead to energy slumps later in the day. Try to reduce hot drinks, using a hot water bottle to warm your body instead.
You shouldn’t sit in the cold to cut energy costs when working from home. But nor should you get into trouble paying your bills. Make sure you are getting help, but also being sensible with usage to keep those bills in hand.
