Let’s be real: working from home is both a blessing and a budget buster. The upside? Sweatpants, your own coffee, and no commuting. The downside is hiding in plain sight—your power bill. 

It’s not just the laptop that’s plugged in all day; it’s the lights, the streaming, the breakfast-lunch-and-snack prep, and, when summer or winter hits, the AC or heat running nonstop. 

If your utility statement has you doing a double take, you’re not alone. But a few smart moves can put you back in control.

Make Your Workspace Work for You

Pick your spot wisely. If you have a room with great natural light, start there and turn off the overhead bulbs. Sunlight makes a world of difference (and looks way better on video calls anyway). When it’s time for lamps, switch out old bulbs for LEDs. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, LED lights use up to 90% less energy and last much longer.

Next, think about your power strips. Plug your work gadgets—computer, monitor, printer—into a single strip and flip it off after hours. This stops that slow leak of energy from devices that sip away at electricity even when they’re “off.” Just one small change, but it matters.

Tweak the Temperature

Heating and cooling are usually the big-ticket items on any electric bill. Give your thermostat a nudge—aim for 76-78°F in summer or 68-70°F in winter. A smart thermostat that learns your schedule and adjusts automagically. While you’re working, dress for the weather inside as much as you do outside. Lightweight layers or cozy socks beat cranking the AC or heat.

If your HVAC is ancient and guzzling power, it could be time for a real upgrade. Local electrical renovation services can help make your space energy efficient, adding savings that stick around long after your next paycheck.

Bite-Sized Appliance Swaps

All-day coffee refills? Pop that old coffee maker on a smart plug you can control from your phone. It shuts off automatically if you forget (and we all forget sometimes). If you make lunch at home, choose a microwave or toaster oven over firing up your full-size oven—less heat, less energy.

And heads up: laptops use way less power than desktop computers, so consider switching if it fits your work needs.

Kill the Standby Power

Did you know that many home gadgets suck up electricity even when you think they’re off? It’s called “phantom” or standby power, and it adds up. Try unplugging anything you aren’t using, or plugging several gadgets into one power strip for a single shutoff.

Track Your Progress

Online tools from your electric provider (or even a simple spreadsheet) can show you where your money is going each month. Some utilities offer free audits or checkups to spot easy savings.

Working from home can seriously drain your energy—but your bank account doesn’t have to take the hit. A little planning, some smart upgrades, and moments of sunny common sense help you stay comfortable and keep those bills in check—so you can focus on work, not your next utility bill.