6 Smart Ways to Shrink Your Utility Bills
When the electricity gets turned off and we hunt for candles and flashlights, we come to realize just how dependent we are on electricity. Learning how to conserve the utilities that we use every day, including electricity, gas, and water, is not only good for the environment, it also helps us save money on our monthly utility bills as well. So, let’s explore some of the ways we can save on our utility bills without sacrificing the comfort and convenience.
Here are 6 sure-fire ways to save on your electric bill and other utility bills each and every month:
1. Review your utility bills.
When your paper bills arrive in the mail, or you receive an electronic bill via email, don’t stash them away. Make sure you take time to read and understand the charges, including any extra fees. For example, when looking at your electric or water bill, review the meter reading to understand the amount you are consuming and how that compares to previous months. Are there any unforeseen spikes? Mistakes can be made, so ensure that the amounts listed are accurate. If you’re falling short, then you can consider money solutions from Advance America.
2. Monitor the trends of your utility usage every month.
Keep a record of the amount of electricity, gas, or water you consume every month. Be on the lookout for any unusual spikes in your bills and investigate anything out of the ordinary right away. For example, if you notice an increase in your water bill, you might have an undetected leak somewhere in your home or on your property.
3. Keep your appliances unplugged when they’re not in use.
Of course, you’re going to want to leave your refrigerator plugged in - that’s common sense. But, your television, microwave, washer and dryer, and even cell phone chargers, will drain a great amount of electricity, even when not in use. Get into the habit of plugging in only when you need to use an appliance.
4. Manage your thermostat.
Turning your thermostat up or down a few degrees can help you save money on your utility bills. Adjust your thermostat at night when you’re sleeping, when you leave your home to go to work or leave your home for an extended period of time, such as a vacation. Adjusting your thermostat a few degrees in either direction, depending on the season, can result in utility expense reduction.
5. Ask your utility company about special payment programs.
Your electric, water, or gas company may have programs that will permit you to pay the average of your total annual bill. Doing so will maintain a predictable monthly payment and allow you to budget your utility expenses.
6. Regularly maintain your home.
You can easily lower your water bill by detecting and fixing leaky faucets, sinks, and toilets. By seasonally maintaining your heating and cooling units and regularly replacing filters, you will also save big on your electric bill.
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