With cold temperatures moving in, many are looking for ways to cut down on utility costs. In a previous article we discussed “The Thermostat Wars” that often occur in homes and how adjusting the thermostat can save you a bundle, but here are a few other tips for saving money:

• Wash clothes with cold or eco-warm water when possible.
• Use LED and CFL lighting. According to one estimate, replacing 20 incandescent bulbs with LEDs could result in a savings of more than $3,000 over the lifespan of the new LED bulb[1].
• In some cases, utility companies offer time-of-use rates and you can save money by using electricity during off-peak hours instead of during the day. A time-of-use change can help you save money by running your more expensive utilities at night such as the dishwasher, washing machine, or dryer.
• Seal your home. Covering drafty windows with plastic and installing weather stripping around doors can add up to substantial savings.
• Install and use ceiling fans. Make sure to reverse the fans rotation for winter months.
• Change shower heads to low flow shower heads. The low flow shower head can decrease water consumption by 40% or more, meaning less work for your water heater and lower water utility costs[2].

Finally, make sure to check with your utility provider. They may have cost-saving programs available or incentives for changing out things like old appliances.

Resources:

[1] http://greenisbetterinc.com/light-bulb-showdown-led-vs-cfl-vs-incandescent/

[2] https://www.brothersplumbing.com/plumbing/benefits-of-using-a-low-flow-shower-head/

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