For most people, utility bills are a significant part of the monthly budget. This is particularly true if you live in a region of the country that experiences extreme temperatures. If you are looking to save money on your overall budget, looking for ways to save cash on your utility bill is a good place to start. Here are five proven ways that you can save money on your utility bills.
Invest in a Programmable Thermostat
One of the easiest and most cost-effective steps that you can take to save money on your utility bills is to invest in a programmable thermostat. The prices of these thermostats are dropping considerably now that smart home features are more mainstream, making them an affordable option for nearly everyone.
With a programmable thermostat, you can set the heat or air conditioning to more comfortable levels when you are home while changing it to a more budget-conscious level when the house is empty. Some smart thermostats even allow you to change the temperature away from home using an app on your smartphone. You can also program the thermostat to run at less capacity during peak energy usage hours, helping you to get more bang for your utility dollar.
Maintain Your HVAC System
You cannot expect to get the most work out of your HVAC system for the least amount of money when it is not running at optimal levels. Having an annual maintenance program for this system will help to ensure that you are not throwing away your money. Using an HVAC service Salt Lake County (or whatever area you live in) for regular maintenance will deliver significant savings on your utility bills.
Even something as simple as changing the filters frequently can make a big difference in the efficiency of your heater and air conditioning unit. Check with the manufacturer’s instructions to learn how often you need to change your filters.
Unplug When Not in Use
Unplugging your appliances while not in use will help to shave off costs from your overall bills. For example, you should only plug in your coffee maker when it is in use. Even in standby mode, these types of appliances will suck energy and add to your utility costs.
When trying to save money on your utility bills, it is prudent to remember that every penny counts. While it may not seem like a big deal to unplug your appliances while not in use, every cent will add up if you are diligent about this practice. Once you get in the habit of unplugging your appliances, it will become second nature for you to do so.
Check Windows and Doors for Drafts
Drafts are a major culprit in high utility bills. One easy way to check for drafts is to light a candle and hold it near a door or window seal. If the flame is flickering, you will know that you have a draft coming into the house.
If you really want to save money in the long run on utility costs, it may be worth your investment to purchase new windows. Today’s modern window technology is engineered to keep drafts and air leaks at a minimum, helping you to keep utility bills at rock-bottom levels.
Lower Your Lights
There are obvious ways that you can reduce your utility costs when it comes to lighting. Being intentional about only using lights while in the room is a good place to start. If your family is not great about turning off the lights when not in a room, you may want to consider choosing lighting that is on a timer.
You can also choose specific lighting elements and bulbs that use less energy. Dimmers are a great addition to nearly any room. Not only will they help to create the vibe that you are looking for, but they will also allow you to choose lower levels of light when you do not need full brightness.
There is no need to spend more on your utility bills than you need to. Taking these five steps will ensure that you are maximizing your costs savings on your utility budget, giving you more cash in your wallet each month so that you can buy the items that really matter the most to you.
Katie earned a BA in English from WWU and loves to write. She also adores hiking in redwood forests and photography. She feels happiest around a campfire surrounded by friends and family.