25 Ways to Save Money on Utility Bills

photo credit: Tanya RynoI am always looking for new ideas on how to save money. One of the ways my family is able to save money is by following several key steps to lower our utility expenses. We have three main categories for our utility expenses which include: water bill ($60 monthly budget); gas bill ($150 monthly budget); electric bill ($150 monthly budget). Earlier this year, when we moved into our new home, one of our major concerns was how much we could expect to pay for our utilities. In order to confront these expenses, my wife and I laid out how much money we could afford for each utility that would fit within our monthly household budget. I have put together a list of the top 25 activities that our family practices that helps us reduce our utility expenses.

Water Bill
There are several frugal behaviors that our family practices to limit the use of water consumption in our home. The majority of these tips are practiced throughout the entire year.

photo credit: K. W. Sanders

1. Avoid all outdoor watering including your lawn.
2. Limit the number of times you flush your toilet.
3. Cut back on the number of times you shower.
4. When showering, turn the water off when lathering up.
5. Collect rain and use to water outdoor plants.
6. Keep old fish tank water to use on indoor houseplants.
7. Always run the dishwasher and wash machine with a full load.
8. Install aerating, low-flow faucets and shower heads to limit your water usage.
9. Always take a shower instead of a bath.

Gas Bill
During the winter months, our largest utility expense is from heating our home. The following list of activities help us save money on gas throughout the winter as well as other months during the year.

photo credit: todbaker

1. Set your hot water heater at 120 degrees.
2. During colder months, set your thermostat to 68 degrees or below when you are in the house and awake.
3. During colder months, set your thermostat to 62 degrees or below when you are sleeping or away from your house.
4. Close vents and shut the doors to rooms rarely used.
5. Open curtains and shades on sunny winter days to help warm your home.
6. Use cold water whenever possible.
7. Replace furnace filters often.

Electric Bill
During the summer months, our electric bill is the highest utility expense. We have implemented the following steps in order to control our monthly electrical expenses.

photo credit: kainet

1. Install CFL bulbs on frequently used light fixtures and lamps.
2. In warmer months, set your thermostat to 80 degrees or above when running your air conditioner.
3. Unplug unused kitchen appliances and computers.
4. In the summer, keep curtains and shades down to help keep your house cooler.
5. Plant shade trees on the southwest side of your home to help shade the summer sun.
6. Install and use ceiling fans in the summer months to cool your home.
7. Use natural light whenever possible instead of turning lights on.
8. Use solar products whenever possible.
9. When boiling water, keep the lid on the pot to prevent any heat loss. This tip can be used regardless if you have an electric or gas stove.

While several of these tips may seem to be minor changes, combined they can add up to huge savings on your utility bills. Any money that is saved by reducing these bills allows us to free up more money to purchase stocks and assets that will help push us one step closer to financial freedom.

What other tips do you practice to reduce your utility expenses?

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