Utility bills are at an all-time high and, whether you realize it or not, you are probably overpaying for the service. Simple tweaks could save you hundreds of dollars a year. From smart devices to energy-efficient habits, these 11 utility tups will help you keep more money in your pocket month to month.
1. Use a Smart Thermostat for Efficient Heating and Cooling
Technology makes everything easier, including saving money on your utilities. Smart home devices like thermostats can learn your routine and adjust the temperature in your home based on your habits. Many of these devices have remote access so that you can adjust the temp when you’re away. This helps prevent unnecessary energy use and can potentially save you 10-15% on your heating and cooling costs every year. The best thing about this is it doesn’t take any additional effort.
2. Switch to LED Lighting
LED light bulbs consume up to 75% less energy than traditional lighting. Plus, they last 25 times longer. Making this change in your home could provide you with significant savings on your monthly electric bill. On top of saving money, you’ll also reduce your carbon footprint. You should also look into rebate programs, which may be available through your utility provider. They may offer you a rebate for making the switch.
3. Install Low-Flow Showerheads and Faucets
Water bills have gone up too, but there are plenty of ways to save. Installing low-flow showerheads, faucets, and toilets is one way to cut down costs. Most low-flow fixtures are affordable and fairly easy to install. This will help you reduce the amount of water used by up to 60%. For larger families, this can make a huge difference.
4. Invest in Energy-Efficient Appliances
Energy-efficient appliances can make a huge difference when it comes to your utility bills. Refrigerators, washing machines, and dishwashers all account for a large portion of your monthly spending. By upgrading to energy-efficient models, you can slash the utility costs for your home. Look the the ENERGY STAR label when you’re shopping. While the upfront cost may be high, the savings will add up fast. Not to mention, many states offer rebates on energy-efficient appliance upgrades.
5. Seal Drafty Windows and Doors
Drafty windows and doors are costing you more than you think. They can let the warm air out in the winter and cool air out in the summer. This causes your HVAC system to work harder than it needs to, which wastes a lot of energy. It can also lead to needing more fixes on your HVAC unit. Some companies will provide you with free energy audits that will identify where you’re losing the most. Then, you might consider upgrading to energy-efficient windows and sealing your doors.
6. Monitor Your Utility Usage with Apps
Yes, there’s an app for that! There are apps like Sense and EnergyHub that will track your home’s energy usage and provide you with real-time data. These apps can ID which appliances are using the most energy and will give you daily and monthly reports. This information allows you to make informed decisions about where you can cut back and see immediate results.
7. Unplug Unused Electronics
This is a hotly debated topic on the internet. Many people argue that unplugging things that aren’t in use doesn’t save enough energy to be worth it, but it can make a difference. Your television, chargers, and gaming console all continue to use power, even if they are turned off. If you don’t want to go through the hassle of unplugging everything, look into getting a smart power strip that will cut off power to anything not in use. Just making this change could save you up to $200 per year and it’s an easy fix.
8. Wash Clothes in Cold Water
Heating water uses a fair amount of energy. Washing your clothes in cold water can help you decrease your overall energy consumption. Most of today’s detergents are designed to work in cold water, so you don’t have to worry. Plus, cold water will prevent color bleeding and help your clothes last longer.
9. Adjust Your Water Heater Temperature
Water heaters are usually set to 140 degrees by default, but lowering the temperature can save you some money. Bringing it down to 120 degrees will reduce your energy consumption and prolong the life of your water heater. Additionally, it will reduce the risk of scalding anyone, which is especially important if you have small children.
You might also consider insulating your water heater and the pipes around it. This can help increase its efficiency even more and have a lasting impact on your utility bills.
10. Automate Your Lights
Automation can really help you save money and use less energy. Lights account for a good chunk of your electric bill, but adding in things like motion sensor lights and timers will help ensure that they’re only on when they’re being used. Smart lighting systems are also available and they allow you to control the lights in your home remotely or schedule them to be off at certain times. This can make a profound impact on the cost of your electric bill.
11. Take Advantage of Utility Company Rebates
As mentioned above, some companies will provide you with rebates when you upgrade to energy-efficient appliances, light bulbs, etc. These programs are put in place to encourage people to reduce energy consumption. Check with your utility provider to see if they offer some kind of rebate program. This makes becoming energy-efficient much more affordable.
Start Saving on Utilities Today
Even though the price of everything is going up, you don’t have to accept high utility bills. Start making changes now and you’ll see savings when your next bill arrives. Whether you choose to seal drafty windows or upgrade to new appliances, there are plenty of utility tips that will help you save without giving up comfort.