29 Jan 2013 18 Comments

Tried-and-True Methods for Saving on Your Utility Bill

The following is a guest post.

When you’re trying to save money, you should take another look at your utility expenses. There are some tried-and-true ways to save on your utility bills, and you can use that money to pay down other bills. Take these steps to bring your utility bills down and start saving money.

Take Advantage of the Competition

Times are changing, and you now have a choice when it comes to your utility supplier. You can shop around to find better rates on your electric and gas suppliers. Even if you live in an area where you cannot choose different suppliers for these important utilities, you can still shop around to find better rates on cable, home phone service, and Internet.

Go Digital

Digital thermostats are proven money-savers. You can set them to maintain the ideal temperature throughout the day and night. You can even set it to turn on a half-hour before you get up in the morning to ensure a comfortable temperature in the house when you wake up. They are most effective in the summer and winter, but they can be used throughout the year.

A Water Jug in the Toilet Tank

Use less water with every flush without investing in a new toilet. Simply put a jug of water in the tank to displace some water and cause it to use less. Start with a smaller jug and increase the size as needed until you arrive at the perfect level.

Make the Switch to Compact Fluorescents

Compact fluorescent bulbs are extremely efficient and use a fraction of the energy of regular bulbs. The initial cost of these bulbs has also dropped drastically in recent years, so they are extremely affordable to purchase and operate. They also last longer than incandescent bulbs, so you won’t have to change them as often.

Recycle Water

Invest in special barrels that attach to your downspouts and capture the water pouring off your roof in every rainstorm. With a few connections and hoses, you can use this water to irrigate the flowerbeds and save money on your water bill.

Work Magic with Vents

Cool air falls and hot air rises. Put this basic knowledge to work in your home. In the winter, close off vents upstairs and let the heat from lower levels rise up and warm those spaces. In summertime, close the downstairs vents and force the cool air upstairs where you will want it most. Throughout the year, keep vents closed in rooms that are unused.

Add Insulation with Weather Stripping

Strips of plastic and foam block the cold air from seeping in around doors and windows. Weather stripping only costs a few dollars, and the adhesive backing makes installing it fast and easy. Install it around doors and windows to keep the drafts out and your warm air in.

There are countless ways to make your home more energy efficient and save money on utility bills. All of these tips will help you save on the monthly bills, and you can then put that money toward more important things. Most of these changes take only a few minutes to implement, but you will be repaid month after month through lower bills.

by Vicky in Personal Finance