How to Save Money on Your Gas, Electric & Water Bills

Turning off the faucet when it's not in use is a quick and easy way to save on water bills.

The costs for gas, electricity and water can add up quickly. These conveniences are a constant part of daily life, from the running water used to wash your hands and the electricity that powers your computer to the gas that cooks your food. Cutting out these utilities isn't a realistic option, but cutting back is certainly possible. From small changes in daily routine to complete replacements for inefficient appliances, you can take your energy-saving measures as far as you're comfortable.

Things You'll Need

• Insulation
• Low-flow shower head
• Power strips
• Energy-efficient appliances
• CFLs

Instructions

1. Adjust your thermostat to be closer to the temperature outside. Keep it a little warmer in summer and a little cooler in winter. When it's warm out, operate appliances such as the oven, dishwasher and washer and dryer at night to avoid super-heating the home during the hottest part of the day.

2. Seal your home to keep air from escaping. Check windows, doors and the attic for leaks and add insulation and seals when needed.

3. Insulate your water heater and hot water pipes to save on the cost of heating water. Lower the temperature on the water heater to further increase your savings.

4. Change your daily routines to use less water. Take short showers with a low-flow shower head. Turn off running water while brushing your teeth. Fill the sink with water to rinse the dishes rather than running the water the entire time you rinse. Only run the washer and dishwasher with full loads.

5. Turn off all lights and appliances when not in use. Plug electronics into a power strip and turn the power strip off as well. Many appliances leech energy even when they're off.

6. Purchase Energy Star certified appliances whenever possible. These use less energy than their counterparts and will help save on all applicable utility charges.

7. Utilize natural lighting to save on electricity during the day. Open drapes and blinds and position mirrors across from windows to increase natural light. Replace standard light bulbs with CFLs to save on the lighting you do use.

References

• SmartMoney; 13 Simple Ways to Lower Your Electric Bill; Kelli B. Grant, et al.; July 2010
• American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy: Water Heating
• U.S. Department of Energy: Insulate Your Water Heater Tank for Energy Savings
• "Green Living for Dummies"; Yvonne Jeffery, et al.; 2008