When you think about lowering your non-mortgage related bills, the first thing that comes to mind is ”utility bills”. Utility bills refer to water, gas and electricity. Some forms of utility bills are more expensive than others but they should all be lowered. This blog will take you through the necessary steps you need to follow to safely lower your utility bills and save money today.
Lower Water Heating Temperature
A hot shower feels great, but if you’re not careful, it can also cost you a lot of money. You may be surprised to learn how much energy your water heater uses. Water heaters that are set to 140 degrees or higher use up to 50% more energy than those at 120 degrees or lower. So before you crank up the temperature on that shower, think about how much money it will save in the long run!
Use An Energy Efficient AC
If you need an air conditioner, make sure it’s Energy Star certified! Not only will this help cut down on your utility costs, but it will also prolong the life of your AC unit overall. If there’s no way around buying an older model with no Energy Star rating, make sure to have it serviced regularly so that it doesn’t break down unexpectedly during peak summer months when prices are highest!
Clean or Replace AC Filters
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There is no better way to protect your AC unit than by cleaning or replacing its filters regularly. Dirty filters restrict airflow which decreases efficiency and causes the system to work harder than necessary. Replace or clean filters at least once every three months for optimal performance and savings!
Replace Bulbs With LEDs
LEDs offer an energy-efficient alternative to traditional light bulbs. They consume less energy than incandescent or halogen bulbs, so they’ll save you money on your monthly electric bill. You’ll also notice a difference in the brightness of your home after switching over since LEDs emit 100% of their light as compared to just 10% for incandescent bulbs.
Keep Windows Clean and Properly Sealed
Windows are often overlooked when it comes to decreasing energy usage in a home, but they actually account for about 25% of heat loss during winter months! By keeping your windows clean and sealing them properly (with weather stripping), you can reduce this percentage significantly—reducing overall heating costs in turn.
Reduce Flow Rate of Faucets/Showerheads
The amount of water flowing from pipes can waste a lot of energy in your home, especially if there are multiple fixtures running at once. To reduce this wastefulness, reduce the flow rate for all faucets or showerheads by adjusting their nozzles so that they spray less forcefully.
Lowering utility bills is a big challenge for homeowners, but it doesn’t have to be. By making small changes around your home, you can start saving hundreds of dollars every year. Not only will you feel good about helping the environment, but you’ll also save money. The benefits of lowering utility bills are immediate and lasting, making this low-cost undertaking worth a closer look.