How to save money on utility bills

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By pfincome
User-Submitted Article

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(4 Ratings)

Given the current economic crisis, families are looking to save money wherever possible. One of the ways my family is able to save money is by following several key steps to lower our utility bills. We have three main categories for our utility expenses which include our water, gas, and electric bills. I have put together a list of the top 25 steps that our family practices that helps us reduce our utility expenses.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

Past utility bills for reference
Software to track monthly utility expenses (i.e. spreadsheet)

Step 1

Need help to pay bills? Try lowering your utility expenses by avoiding all outdoor watering including your lawn.
Step 2

One easy way to save money is by limiting the number of times you flush your toilet.
Step 3

Looking for ideas on how to save money? Try cutting back on the number of times you shower to lower your water consumption which will reduce your bill.
Step 4

When showering, turn the water off when lathering up. This will save on your water consumption and will lower your bill.
Step 5

Another one of the ways to save money is to collect rain and use to water outdoor plants.
Step 6

Keep old fish tank water to use on indoor houseplants.
Step 7

Always wash clothes and dishes with a full load. This will save on both water, gas and electric (depending on the type of appliances you have).
Step 8

Set your hot water heater at 120 degrees to lower your gas bill (provided you have a gas water heater).
Step 9

During colder months, set your thermostat to 68 degrees or below when you are in the house and awake. This will help you save money on gas.
Step 10

During colder months, set your thermostat to 62 degrees or below when you are sleeping or away from your house.
Step 11

Close vents and shut the doors to rooms rarely used.
Step 12

Open curtains and shades on sunny winter days to help warm your home.
Step 13

Try this money saving idea - use cold water whenever possible. This reduces the need to heat water and reduces your energy consumption.
Step 14

One of my favorite money saving tips - install CFL bulbs on frequently used light fixtures and lamps to save on your electricity bill.
Step 15

In warmer months, set your thermostat to 80 degrees or above when running your air conditioner.
Step 16

Unplug unused kitchen appliances and computers.
Step 17

In the summer, keep curtains and shades down to help keep your house cooler.
Step 18

Plant shade trees on the southwest side of your home to help shade the summer sun and provide insulation in the winter.
Step 19

Install and use ceiling fans in the summer months to cool your home and circulate warm air in the winter.
Step 20

Replace furnace filters often to allow your appliances to run efficiently.
Step 21

Always take showers over baths.
Step 22

When boiling water, cover the pot to prevent the heat from escaping.
Step 23

Use natural light in your house whenever possible instead of turning on lights.
Step 24

Use solar products whenever possible.
Step 25

Run outdoor seasonal lighting such as Christmas lights on a timer that turns them off while you are sleeping.