It appears that everything costs more nowadays. From groceries to fuel, the rising prices are inevitable. Utility bills are shockingly high and some are even reported to have doubled or even tripled. Based on the U.S. Department of Energy, the typical American family spends more than $1,600 on utility bills every year.
If you want to save a few precious dollars on your utility bills, here are several tips to cut on your utility costs.
1. Make it a habit to switch off things when not in use. Turn off the lights when you leave a room and pull the plug on electrical appliances that are not used. Switch to compact fluorescent bulbs because they last longer and utilizes less energy than conventional bulbs.
2. Make your water heater efficient. Try to lower its temperature by using cold water as much as possible when doing laundry. Skip the dry heat setting when using your dishwasher.
3. Give your freezer or fridge a break by letting hot food sit an hour or more before putting in the fridge so you will not waste energy in getting your fridge work hard to cool it down.
4. Replace your furnace filter religiously every month. A dusty filter could cause your furnace to work harder. Consider installing ceiling fans since they circulate the air. Change the thermostat of your aircon a couple of degrees.
5. If possible, use manual appliances instead. Use a manual can opener instead of the electric one. Try using a wire whip instead of a mixer.
6. Regularly clean and maintain your appliances and replace or clean the furnace filter and drain the sediment from the water heater as often as what their manuals indicate. Well-maintained appliances last longer and will definitely knock off a few dollars on your bills.
7. Replace outdoor flood light with solar-powered lighting. Typically, solar lights are not as bright as electric lights, but you can find appropriate lighting that only costs the amount you paid and not a single penny added on your electricity.
8. Even when set in sleep mode, your DVD, computer and other appliances consume some energy. Use a power strip so when you turn off its power, you use less electricity.
9. Consider installing faucet aerators. They use less water even if you turn on the taps for the equal amount of time. They cost less than two dollars each.
10. Run your dishwater heater only when full. Remember that since it is hot water, you are not just paying for the water but also for the energy consumed in heating it.
11. If you do not have a water-saver toilet, try to simulate one by putting a sealed plastic bottled filled with pebbles, a clean brick or a weighted mason jar in the toilet tank. This replaces water resulting in less use every time you flush.
12. Opt to air-dry your dishes than using the drying cycle of your washer. Open the door when the dishwasher is finished. The wire racks in your washer can easily be doubled as drying racks and you will be able to save on energy.
13. If your appliances are outdated and old, it tends to use more electricity than brand new ones. It may be worth your investment to buy new appliances as long as it fits with your budget.
14. When you buy new appliances, take note on their energy ratings. For energy-efficient appliances, choose those with an Energy Star logo. Large appliances such as boilers, water heaters, fridge, and dishwashers among others have yellow Energy Guide tags that indicate their energy efficiency compared to other brands.
By carrying out these money saving tips, you may see a decrease in your utility bills. The less spend on utilities, the better.
Tags : Home Owner Insurance
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