How to Save Money on Common Household Utilities

Heating, electricity, and water are the most dreaded bills homeowners have to conquer as the winter season rolls in. Saving money on these costs can save you from having to move in winter, which can more difficult and hazardous. However, there a lot of things you can do to mitigate these costs. Let's take a look at a few.

Heating and Cooling

Heating and cooling are often the most expensive parts of owning a home. They can be especially difficult to pay in the winter months as heating tends to be harder than cooling. Saving starts by turning it down. By lowering your thermostat one or two degrees, say from 70 to 68, you can save a lot on your heating costs. Just remember that peak productivity occurs at 71.6 degrees. You can also keep warm at lower temperatures by circulating air more effectively around your living space. That means ceiling fans are going to be immensely helpful here. In addition, it's important to make sure that you have the proper insulation in your walls and ceiling. And finally, remember to check for air leaks around your windows and doors. Those little drafty areas could be costing you more than you think.

Electricity

Electricity can be hard to save on because it's so easy to overuse without noticing. One big change you can make is using more efficient lightbulbs. This will help you save some electricity during the winter months when it's dark earlier. Using special surge protectors that turn off all the items plugged into them can also save you from energy vampires like consoles, computers, and TVs. Finally, using eco-friendly settings on dishwashers, washers, dryers, and other appliances can help you save. You can even avoid your dryer altogether and air-dry clothes on a rack or outdoor line. If you're relocating like 11% of the population, make all appliances, electronics, and other electricity sappers are unplugged. You'll be saving on your electric bills in no time.

Water

Saving on water requires a few quick professional checks. You'll want to have a plumber check your pipes for leaks and cracks. Leaks can cost you hundreds of dollars a year so getting your pipes regularly is a very important way to save on water. Eco-friendly settings on dishwashers and washers can help save too. Other water-saving tips include taking faster showers, keeping a pitcher of water in the fridge to avoid running the tap, and adding bottles of gravel or sand to your toilet tanks. Water can be tricky to keep an eye on so be sure to check your pipes regularly and be mindful of what you use.

A few small steps can make all the difference when it comes to
saving money on these utility bills. Make sure everyone in your home participates in turning off lights, taking shorter showers, and using extra blankets and you'll be saving all winter long.