Tips for Saving Money on Your Utility Bills

Most of us groan when we open the mailbox to find yet another utility bill. But, the convenience of having electric is a huge blessing. Due to the economic situation in our country every money saving tip we utilize is a financial investment in our pockets.

Hot Water Heater--Purchase an energy efficient water heater. The older models are often energy wasters. If you can not afford a new heater--insulate yours with a water heater blanket. They are reasonably priced and can be purchased at box stores and your independent hardware. Turn the thermostat on your hot water heater down to 120 degrees. The water is still hot enough for showers/bathing.

Laundry--Instead of using hot water--wash in warm water and rinse with cold water. Your clothes will be clean. Most detergents work well in warm or cold wash cycles. However, read the fine print on the box/jug to verify this before making a purchase. Only wash full loads of laundry. Use your washer during the off peak electric usage hours--if your utility provider charges more for electric usage during the day.

Thermostat--Install an electronic or programmable one that is compatible with your heating/cooling system. In the winter lower the thermostat in your home by two or three degrees. Wear a sweater to stay warm during the day. At night add an extra blanket to your bed. Cook your supper in the oven and leave the door ajar after the stove is turned off. It adds (a little) heat to your home.

Furnace--Replace the filter in your furnace several times each winter. Dirty filters block air flow which increases your energy usage and shortens the life of the furnace. Get a technician to service your furnace at least once each year.

Let the Sun Shine In--Open your curtains/blinds during the day in the winter to allow the sun's rays to heat your rooms. In the summer close the curtains/blinds to keep the hot rays of the sun out.

Air Conditioner--In the summer turn your conditioner up a few degrees. Depending on where you live (city or country) open your windows. Shut off your air conditioner and use ceiling fans to circulate the air. Fans use a fraction of the wattage that air conditioners do. Another option is purchasing a window air conditioner unit for your bedroom. Keep that door closed and have a cooler room at night.

Appliances--Look for the ENERGY STAR label when purchasing new appliances for your home. Often they cost more initially, but you will recoup the money over time by using less in energy costs to operate.

Refrigerator/Freezer--Make sure that the doors of your refrigerator and freezer seal tightly. Is your freezer fairly full or is there a lot of empty space? Running a half empty freezer wastes energy. Consider purchasing a smaller unit or fill some containers with water or juice to fill the empty spots.

Dishwasher--Do not run a half full dishwasher. Wait until you have a full load or wash them by hand. Do not use the drying cycle on your dishwasher. Open the door, pull the racks forward and allow the dishes to air dry.

Computers/Small Appliances--Activate the sleep feature on your computer for periods of non-use. Better yet - turn your computer off for longer periods of time such as at night and going to work. Turn TV's and DVD players off when not in use. Unplug items in the kitchen that are not being used--coffee maker, toaster, radio, can openers etc.

Exterior Doors/Windows--Use caulk and/or weather stripping to ensure an air tight seal around exterior doors and windows. Keep exterior doors closed as much as possible. This will keep cold air from coming into your home. It will also keep warm air from escaping into the great outdoors.

Interior Doors/Registers--Close interior doors and registers in rooms in your home that are not being used. This will save on your heating and cooling bills. Some utility companies have technicians who can check for energy loss in your home. Check to see if your supplier offers this service.

Lights--Turn off lights when you leave the room. Turn exterior lights off when you go to bed at night. Replace incandescent light bulbs with compact fluorescent bulbs. Use dimmers and timers on both interior and exterior lighting to save money.

Showers--Install low flow shower heads. They are inexpensive, easy to install and limit the amount of water usage. Try cutting your shower a few minutes shorter. Get in and get out! It will lower your water bill and electric/gas bill.

Keep the extra money in your pocket!