Tips for saving on utility bills

With the winter months quickly approaching, many people are looking for ways to save on utilities. Below are some tips to save on electricity, gas, phone and water bills.

Many local electric, gas and water companies offer low cost plans for people with lower incomes or medical issues, so calling the local company could be a great way to begin saving.

If possible, replacing old appliances with ones that have the Energy Star approval can help, as well. An old appliance may be costing way more than a newer one by not running efficiently. Go to http://www.energystar.gov/ for more information on Energy Star products and ways to save by making small home improvements to make homes more efficient.

Installing a programmable thermostat can impact utility bills tremendously because they help regulate the heating and cooling systems while someone is home and away. Turning up the thermostat 2 degrees in the summer and down 2 degrees in the winter can make a huge difference, but will not sacrifice comfort.

Turning down the thermostat on a hot water heater to about 120 degrees can help save, but will still feel hot enough when bathing.

Turning off lights and turning off or unplugging appliances that are not in use should save money over time, too. Compact fluorescent light (CFL) bulbs will last much longer than old incandescent ones and will lower electricity costs. The best bulbs to purchase will have an Energy Star label.

Regularly cleaning the coils on the back of a refrigerator and replacing filters when needed on heating and air-conditioning units will use less energy, as well.

Many people who have cell phones can cancel their home phone service to completely eliminate a home phone bill. Also, there are free or low cost ways to make long distance calls like Skype, if internet service is available.

Air drying clothes or dishes and washing only full loads can help, too.

For even more tips on saving on utilities, visit the U.S. Department of Energy site at: http://energy.gov/energysaver/energy-saver

In their Frugal Living Guide, Bankrate.com offers 10 ways to save on utility bills at: http://www.bankrate.com/finance/smart-spending/10-ways-to-save-money-on-your-utility-bill-1.aspx

There are so many simple ways to save on utilities. Even doing just a few of them can have a dramatic effect on energy usage and monthly utility costs.