Utility bills are often that “great unknown” when it comes to managing the family budget, changing from month to month depending on how hot or cold it is outside, family habits, and more.
Following a particularly cold weather outburst, families are often surprised to find that their energy bills increased by twenty or thirty percent, forgetting that keeping the heat on high means having to deal with higher energy bills the following month.
As far as water usage goes, is it possible to keep this expense from going out of control? According to the Consumer Council for Water there are some excellent ways to conserve water year round including by taking the following steps:
* Replace worn washers on leaky taps. A dripping hot water tap wastes energy and in one week wastes enough hot water to fill half a bath.
* Take a five minute shower instead of a bath, or go one step further and install a water saving shower head, which can cut the amount of water used by about 30 per cent.
* When putting the kettle on to boil, only fill it with as much water as necessary. Two-thirds of us waste energy by boiling more water than we need.
* Make sure that the dishwasher or washing machine is completely full before turning it on, and avoid using the half load setting. Half-load cycles can use much more than half the energy and water of a full load.
* Washing machines use huge amounts of energy, 90 per cent of which is through heating water. By reducing the temperature from 40 to 30 degrees, the washing machine’s energy consumption will be reduced by 40 per cent.
* The hot water cylinder thermostat should be set at 60C or 140F. Any higher is a waste of energy and could lead to scalding; any lower could create risks to health.
* Insulate the hot water tank to avoid wasting energy to keep it hot. Fitting a jacket to the boiler that is at least 75mm thick could save around $50 each year.
As with any energy saving move, including all family members in the initiative will bring about the best savings. In a recession, everyone can pitch in to make a difference.
Adv. — Are you looking for tips on how to lower your monthly bills? To increase savings? To have a better way of life? Saylowerbills.com is your resource for managing your family’s expenses. Get the new year off to a smart start by developing a comprehensive savings plan for your family. Check out our free tools and tips on how to reduce your expenditures.
end of post idea for home improvement
view and analyze home improvement ideas at our LetsRenovate center
Helpful article? Leave us a quick comment below.
And please give this article a rating and/or share it within your social networks.
