Five Ways to Save Money on Utilities - Reed Team Homes

Five Ways to Save Money on Utilities

Who wouldn’t want to save money on utilities every month? Here are a few ways you can lower your bills so that you have more money to save or spend on other things.

Save Money on Utilities With a Programmable Thermostat

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If you don’t have a programmable thermostat installed, consider getting one soon. Here is why.

A programmable thermostat is a thermostat that can be set to automatically run on particular days and times. This allows the HVAC system to automatically shut off or run at a less drastic temperature whenever it can. 

A programmable thermostat is especially cost-effective when you can program it to turn off during work hours when no one is home. Currently, many of us are working from home due to COVID-19 but soon we’ll all be making our way back to school and working in an office. When there’s nobody home between the hours of 9-5, you can use a programmable thermostat to keep the HVAC system running less, saving you money.

Five Ways to Save Money on Utilities

Let the Sun Shine Through… or Don’t.

In the winter, keep your blinds and curtains open to let as much sunlight shine through as possible. This allows the sun to help warm up your house, meaning your HVAC system doesn’t have to work as hard.

Likewise, do the opposite in the summertime. Keep the blinds or curtains closed to keep the sunlight out and your house cooler. If you find your home is still warm by the windows consider investing in some quality blackout curtains.

Disconnect Power From Unused Electronics

When an electronic is plugged into an outlet, it’s drawing power, even when it’s turned off.

Consider unplugging devices that are left turned off, or unused for long periods of time. Some examples of devices that fit these criteria include a TV that is only turned on during the weekend, a toaster that you only use every other day, and a laptop charger that you leave permanently plugged in.

By unplugging these devices, you’re cutting off the electricity and shaving a bit of money off your utility bill.

If unplugging devices more often doesn’t seem like a realistic habit for you to start, try a smart power strip. Smart power strips can be programmed to turn off when not in use so no energy is wasted.

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Change Air Filters Regularly and Don’t Block Vents

Guaranteeing your home has good airflow is an easy way to save on your utilities. When your home has insufficient airflow, your HVAC system has to work harder in summer to cool it down or heat it up in the winter. Avoid this by making sure the air filters in your furnace are changed on a regular basis. Depending on the size of your house and the number of particles in the air, you may need to change your furnace filters as often as once a month. It’s also recommended to double-check the placement of any large furniture you have to ensure nothing is blocking any vents in your home. 

Insulate

Is your attic well-insulated? Do you have an attic tent over the opening where your ladder comes up?

How about the basement? Do you have it insulated to help keep it warm in the winter and cool in the summer?

If not, you can either hire a professional to install these things or do it yourself. By insulating the home well, the EPA estimates you can save up to 11% on total energy costs.

Conclusion

Being able to save money on utilities is great, but it’s not always easy to find a home with energy-saving features. If you’re looking for a more energy-efficient home or a new home in general, we’ve got you covered. Give us a call at 949-392-6400. We look forward to hearing from you.