If you're looking to save money, a good place to start is by analyzing your utility bills. Rates have been on the rise, so anything you can do to lower your bills can make a big difference. Here are nine tips to do that.
1. Make Sure Your Home is Well Insulated
One of the best things you can do to reduce your utility bills is to ensure that your home is well insulated. Add insulation where needed (such as the attic), insulate pipes, seal windows and gaps. Use thermal curtains. There are lots of ways to improve your insulation, so research and find as many ways as possible.
2. Use Energy-Efficient Appliances
Make sure you're using energy-efficient appliances. Look for the Energy Star badge. Types of appliances to look at include washers, dryers, refrigerators, air cleaners, electric cooking devices, dishwashers, heating and cooling, lighting, water heaters, electronics, and more.
3. Unplug Electronics When Not in Use
Save money on your electricity bill by unplugging devices and appliances that aren't being used. Even if they're not in use, they can still be using electricity, even if not as much.
4. Reduce the Temperature on Your Water Heater
Save money by turning down the heat on your water heater. You may be keeping it hotter than it needs to be.
"Many water heater manufacturers set thermostats at 140 degrees Fahrenheit (60 C)," says Erin Gobler at CNET.* "But in reality, most households only need it set at a maximum of 120 F. Setting your water heater to a lower temperature can save hundreds of dollars a year. Adjusting a water heater's temperature is a quick and easy fix. The thermostat dial on your water heater is likely near the bottom of the tank on the electric or gas control valve. Be sure to check the owner's manual for instructions to adjust it -- and if you have any questions, consult a professional technician."
5. Use LED Light Bulbs
LED light bulbs last longer than incandescent bulbs, and they use less energy in the process. If you don't need to use incandescent bulbs, LED can save you money in the long run.
6. Look Into Solar Power
Look into options for having solar panels installed in your home. It will require that you have professionals, as well as checking if your home is suitable for them. For example, not all roofs will accommodate the panels. Find a certified professional to determine your options.
7. Use a Smart Thermostat
A smart thermostat will likely save you money as it can optimize your use of heat and air conditioning, and you won't have to keep checking to make the right adjustments.
"The secret to energy savings is pretty simple," says Consumer Reports.** "Smart thermostats turn off the heat and AC more often than regular thermostats, without sacrificing comfort. One way that smart thermostats can do this is by figuring out when nobody is home, most commonly with motion sensors, or by checking the location of your phone (also known as geo-fencing). When the thermostat senses that your house is empty, it’ll switch to an energy-saving mode that turns back the temperature (up in the summer, down in the winter). It’s the same effect as adjusting your thermostat by hand when you leave the house—but these smart thermostats do it automatically, so you don’t have to remember to adjust it yourself."
8. Utilize Curtains and Blinds
When it's hot out, keep your curtains and/or blinds closed to let as little sunlight in as possible. This can go a long way to keeping your home cooler and provide less strain on your air conditioning unit. On cold days, open the blinds and curtains up to allow the sun to provide heat.
9. Take Shorter Showers
Think about how long you're spending in the shower. Chances are you're lingering a little longer than really needed. If you reduce your shower time, you can significantly reduce your water usage time, and gas or electricity for the water heater, along with the electricity you're using by having the light and/or fan on during your shower.
Utilities can be quite costly if you're not careful about how you're using them. The tips above should help you reduce your bills while maintaining your quality of life.
** https://www.consumerreports.org/appliances/thermostats/are-smart-thermostats-worth-it-a7822875275/