I wanted to see if anyone had any easy helpful tips that can help you save money on your electric and water bill. I am moving into my own place and have to pay some utility bills and just trying to figure out ways to cut costs.
One thing is to consider a programmable thermostat. You can set your heat / air for the right temperatures when you are or aren't at home. Think about one of those toilet tank regulators to avoid wasting water. Set your hot water to a decent temperature. Caulk your windows and doors to protect against heat or air escape. Learn to unplug things that are not in use all of the time like a microwave, coffee pot, etc. Get an energy saving showerhead. Don't run water when brushing teeth… get a little glass by the sink. Remember it adds up when you prevent a little waste per day, it saves alot over a year. Oh, and invest in those energy light bulbs. They cost more upfront but they save you in the long run.
What are some helpful tips on saving money on your electric & water bill?
7 comments for “What are some helpful tips on saving money on your electric & water bill?”
One thing is to consider a programmable thermostat. You can set your heat / air for the right temperatures when you are or aren't at home. Think about one of those toilet tank regulators to avoid wasting water. Set your hot water to a decent temperature. Caulk your windows and doors to protect against heat or air escape. Learn to unplug things that are not in use all of the time like a microwave, coffee pot, etc. Get an energy saving showerhead. Don't run water when brushing teeth… get a little glass by the sink. Remember it adds up when you prevent a little waste per day, it saves alot over a year. Oh, and invest in those energy light bulbs. They cost more upfront but they save you in the long run.
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Get the energy saving light bulbs. They look like squiggly things and save a ton on electric! Be sure to shut the water off when you brush your teeth, then put it on to rinse. Scrape plates before washing to cut down on water needs. Shower instead of taking a bath will save both electric to heat the water and the cost of the water. Get a flow saver for the shower head too. Shut off lights as you leave a room. Good luck in your new place!
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Hot water heaters can be costly if not maintained correctly.
Make sure the heating elements are changed regularly and that the tank itself is free from settlement. A/C units with a higher seer rating save on cost. Water bills can be higher if there are leaking faucets, leaking comode components etc. Correct insullation within the house can lower the cost of heating and cooling. Limit the use of TV, washing machines and dryers, and set the thermostats at a comfortable yet, cost saving setting.
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Unplug appliances like computers, DVD players, DVRs, stereos, microwaves, cell phone / iPod chargers, etc. when you're not using them — pretty much everything with a clock or a blinking light. They suck up an incredible amount of electricity and unplugging them can save anywhere from 2 to 5% of your electric bill.
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Put all your chargers (for cell phones and stuff) on a power strip, turn the power strip off when not in use.
Get energy efficient bulbs use natural light as much as possible.
When taking a shower make it warm not hot.
This one is kinda gross but, if you are just going number 1 don't flush.
For the summer, ceiling fans are a lot cheaper to operate than air conditioning.
Use a slightly lower setting on the fridge and freezer.
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Always use dimmer lighting in the evening. It also helps you relax before bedtime. If possible, do not use lights during the day. Only use a/c if the temp in your apt. is 80F. Often no air if you can open windows for a breeze. Mark the calendar when it rains and do not water the lawn for one week after good rains. Use dishwasher only when full. Also full loads only for laundry. Two minutes for dryer, then hang to dry naturally.
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My wife and I have been using this site http://www.daddymorebucks.com.
This guy has like 5 kids or something and has come up with all kinds of great creative ways to save money. INCLUDING your electric bill.
It was really amazing some of the things that he has come up with. It's simple and straight to the point.
It has saved my wife and I about $500 a month.
I hope it helps you as much as us.
Have a good one!
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