Tips To Help You Save On Your Utility Bill
If you are an apartment dweller, you know that one of your biggest expenses is your utility bill. Fortunately, there are some ways that you can lower it each month. Here are some simple tips that you can utilize to help save on your utility bill.
Turn Off Lights
It’s not uncommon to walk out of a room and leave a light on. Unfortunately, this will make your utility bill more expensive. Make it a habit to turn off lights when you walk out of a room. Try to use natural light as much a possible. Because you are living in an apartment, you might not have a lot of windows. However, utilize the ones that you do have. Open up the curtains, and turn off your lights.
Unplug Appliances
Did you know that appliances can still use power even if they are turned off? Because of this, you need to unplug appliances that aren’t in use if you want to save money. Toaster ovens, coffee pots and microwaves can easily be unplugged when not in use and plugged back in when it’s time to use them.
Only Do Full Loads
Your utility bill may be high because you aren’t doing full loads of dishes or clothes. Make sure that you don’t do small or half loads. By only doing full loads, you will save both water and electricity. You may also want to consider skipping the drying cycle on your dishwasher and drying your dishes yourself. Even though you live in an apartment, you can still hang-dry your clothes as well. Simply get a drying rack, and place your clothes on it. This will allow you to cut down on your energy consumption, and your clothes might also last longer.
Adjust Your Thermostat
Your air conditioning system uses a lot of energy. You can lower your utility bill by lessening the amount of time that this system runs each day. In the summer months, adjust the temperature on your thermostat by raising it a few degrees. If you are hot, you can use ceiling fans to help make it cooler. In the winter months, turn the temperature down. If you are cold, wear a sweater, or put extra blankets on your bed. By adjusting your thermostat by just a few degrees, it can have a huge impact on your utility bill.
Look For Air Leaks
Some apartments can be drafty. Outside air may be coming inside and causing your air conditioner to not work as efficiently. You can solve this by looking for leaks. Put your hand near closed windows and doors to feel for air. If you feel a draft, you need may need to add new caulk or weatherstripping to keep air out.
In conclusion, you don’t just have to live with a high utility bill. By utilizing the above tips, you can lower it. This money will really add up over the course of several months.
