Housing costs are the most significant expenses for most people. But you can’t live comfortably in your home without working utilities — and those can cost quite a bit, too.
But there are dozens of ways you can cut down on your utility usage and save money. Here are some of the best.
1. Look For and Fix Cracks, Holes, and Seals
Cracks, holes, and broken seals allow your hot or cold air to escape, meaning your heating or cooling has to work longer to compensate.
Spend some time scanning all your walls for cracks and holes, as well as your windows for any damaged seals. If you find any, fix them up.
2. Check and Beef Up Insulation
Poor insulation is a common cause of high utility bills, as your home loses heat to the cold temperatures outside.
Give your insulation a checkup, and replace it if necessary.
3. Use Sunlight and Curtains to Your Advantage
No matter the season, you can use the sun to reach the optimal home temperature for less money.
In the winter, open up your curtains so the sun can shine in. This will give your home a slight heat boost, reducing reliance on the heating system.
In the summer, do the opposite — close the curtains on whichever side the sun is on. You’ll keep the sun’s rays out, slightly reducing your need for A/C.
4. Replace Your Air Filter
A dirty, clogged air filter reduces the amount of air your HVAC system can circulate throughout your home. Consequently, it has to be on longer to maintain a temperature, driving up your heating bill.
Experts recommend changing your air filter every 90 days. That aligns reasonably well with the seasons’ changing, so put it on your list of season-shifting tasks.
5. Layer Up in the Winter
The great thing about cold weather is you can always throw on more layers. Consider setting your thermostat at a slightly less than comfortable temperature than usual, but throw on some sweats.
No need to get extreme with this, though. The savings aren’t worth the misery if you set the temperature too low.
6. Install a Smart Thermostat
Smart thermostats learn your habits for adjusting the temperature to do it for you while also optimizing your energy usage. For example, it’ll automatically lower the temperature when everyone’s away at work or school.
Now, these devices can cost a good chunk of change, but the savings pay off in the long term. Plus, various utility companies and local governments offer incentive programs that help offset these devices’ costs.
7. Cut Down on Shower Time
Long, warm showers in the morning (and frankly, in the evening, too) feel fantastic. However, stretching out a shower too long adds up fast, especially if your showers are hot.
The average shower uses about 5 gallons of water every minute. By cutting your shower time by only 2 minutes, you’re saving 10 gallons a day — or 3,650 gallons a year! Not to mention your heating bill will decrease, too.
