Energy-Saving Tips For Newly Married Couples
Being eco-conscious doesn't have to mean outfitting your home with pricey solar panels. Here is what you can do:
1. Monitor Your Energy Use
You can reduce your monthly electric expenses, typically by as much as 15 percent, according to a recent IBM study, by knowing how much power you’re actually using and where you can most effectively cut back. Add a plug load monitor to any outlet where you plug in an appliance or device; the monitor will display how much energy the device is consuming and when, helping you decide which ones should be turned off and at what time. Some models are programmable, to cut power automatically.
2. Install Dimmer Switches
Not yet ready to say buh-bye to incandescent bulbs? Then consider that simply dimming a light by 10 percent more than doubles the bulb's life.
Read on for more advice on lowering your utility bills.
How To Lower Your Utility Bills
There are various tips you can implement to lower your utility bills. You can start by updating your appliances and investing in smart gadgets that are best for saving energy. New devices tend to be more efficient and, therefore, great for lowering your utility bills.
If you want to save water, try to run the dishwasher and washing machine only when they’re full. Running your washing machine with only cold water and not rinsing your dishes before filling up the dishwasher can help you reduce your water bills even further. Leaks also cause high-water bills, so look for leaks, such as a constantly running toilet or a dripping faucet.
When building a new home, make it as efficient as possible. This means using sustainable materials such as wood, stone, and recycled material. Consider if the benefits outweigh the costs when beginning a new home project, such as adding a new room.
Get your home insulation right, so you won’t have to invest in this later on. Good insulation is essential to avoid high energy consumption. A tip is to cover outlets as it can help save up to 5% per month on utility bills.
A solar system is a good investment as well, as it is environmentally friendly and renewable energy. Those with solar panels earn tax credits, making it even more attractive.
Finally, a financial tip to help manage your bills is to save 5% to 10% of your annual income to pay for your utility bills
