This is a guest post from Karen Schweitzer
Everyone knows utility bills are a necessary part of life, and one of the main reasons we go to work each day. Utilities provide us with the things we need and use on a daily basis, including electricity and internet service. Unfortunately, most utilities are not cheap. If you are wondering how you can spend less on utilities each month, the following tips can help.
Electricity
Electricity is one of the most important utilities because it powers our appliances and gives us light. Luckily there are some simple things you can do that will help you spend less on electricity each month. One thing you can do is switch all the light bulbs in your home to CFLs (compact fluorescent light bulbs). Because CFLs use up to 90% less electricity than normal incandescent light bulbs, they will drastically lower the amount you pay for electricity each month. CFLs also last much longer than normal bulbs, meaning less burned-out bulbs each year. Another way to lower your electricity bill is to unplug all appliances and electronics that are not in use. Just because an appliance isn’t being used does not mean it doesn’t use electricity. Although the amount of electricity being used is small, it still adds up and costs you money. By simply unplugging things when they are not in use, you can save a considerable amount of money each year.
Internet Service
With the internet being more popular than ever, it is no wonder so many folks have internet service in their homes. If you think you may be paying too much for internet service each month, you are probably right. You will be happy to know there are some easy ways to help you save on this utility. The first thing you should do is shop around for internet service. Going with the first provider you come across may not give you the best deal. Compare the rates and plans of all providers in your area. This will allow you to see which companies offer the best prices and best plans. Also ask providers if they are currently offering any specials on internet service. Many providers offer substantial discounts to new subscribers. You can also ask internet companies if they offer any package deals. Since many internet providers also offer cable television and/or telephone service, they often combine 2 or more services on one bill. This is known as a package deal and can save you a great deal of money on utilities you are probably paying for separately.
Heating and Cooling
The costs associated with heating and cooling can be quite high. Fortunately there are some simple things you can do to cut these costs. One of the best ways to save on heating and cooling is to make sure your home is sealed properly. This means eliminating all gaps and cracks around windows and doors. This will prevent air from both escaping and coming into your home, and will keep it warmer in the winter months and cooler in the summer. Another way to save on heating and cooling costs is to keep your hot water heater and furnace properly maintained at all times. If either appliance is not working efficiently, you may be paying way too much for heating bills. You can also install a special blanket around your water heater to keep water warmer longer. This and lowering the temperature on your water heater will help keep costs down. Programmable home thermostats can also save you money. They do this by preventing your furnace and/or air conditioner from running at unnecessary times. Now that you know how simple it can be to spend less on utilities, you should never pay too much for them again. Since utilities will always be around, at least they will be easier to manage each month. You will be very happy to have extra money to spend on other things.
About the Author: Karen Schweitzer writes about internet service providers and related topics for Internetserviceproviders.org