Financial Tips

How to Save Money : Save on Utility Expenses

The power to save

One of the best ways to manage utility bills is to check into balanced billing with utility companies. Based on the average of past bills, you'll pay the same amount every month. Knowing exactly what you'll pay each month helps in sticking to a budget. Also, you can save money just by lowering your thermostat to 65 degrees in the winter and wearing extra layers of clothing and warm blankets. Raise the thermostat in the summer and use fans. Turn off lights and TV when you leave a room.

Conserve water and your cash

Americans are notorious for wasting water! So much so, that it's easy to conserve without missing it at all. Start by cutting back on baths-take showers instead. And take shorter showers. Wait for a full load to run the dishwasher or washing machine. And put your yard sprinklers on a timer to cut off automatically.

Why cheap talk is a good thing

Money spent talking on the phone is money gone long after the conversation ends. Begin by calling the phone company. You may be shocked at the number of unnecessary services you are paying for! And if you need to know a phone number, look it up instead of calling directory assistance.

Of course, the real money to be saved is on long distance. Shop around for the best rates. Make only emergency long distance phone calls and stand up while talking or use a timer. Better yet, write letters and use e-mail. If you have a cell phone, you may consider using it for your long distance calls. Call your cell phone company to see when your free minutes kick in and if your most frequently called long distance numbers involve extra roaming charges.

Did You Know?

The afternoon sun really heats up utility bills! To keep costs down, equip western exposed windows with solar accents.