Tired of getting stuck with an unreasonably high power bill at the end of the month? Unsure how you could possibly be consuming so much power to begin with? The answer likely lies in the amount of hot water you use.
Luckily, there are plenty of easy ways to better control your hot water usage and, by extension, your power bill. If you’re willing to make a few minor changes to your home and lifestyle, try following these tips on how to spend less on your power bill:
Take Fewer Steamy Showers
Hot, steamy showers are amazing, especially after a long day. Unfortunately, they can also have a major impact on your monthly power bill. The amount of energy it takes to heat up enough water for multiple hot, luxurious showers every week is quite significant.
It doesn’t mean you need to give up this luxury entirely, but using warm water on occasion or taking one less hot shower a week will make a big difference. Just change your showering habits for two weeks and take a look at your power bill!
Instal Low-Flow Fixtures
If you’re the kind of person who accidentally leaves taps running, wasting both water and money in the process, you’ll benefit from installing low-flow fixtures. These are designed to limit water usage while taking showers, washing your hands, or flushing the toilet.
They’re convenient, affordable, and relatively easy to instal. If you’re unable to break your habit of leaving taps running, they’re a very accessible and effective solution.
Fill Up Your Appliances
Always fill your washing machine and dishwasher to their full capacity before turning them on. Running small loads of dirty clothes and dishes is a total waste of water and money, as you should only be using these types of appliances when you really need to.
To save even more power when using these appliances, ensure that they are using cold water and not running on longer cycles than necessary.
Get Leaks Repaired Quickly
Did you know that minor leaks that lose one droplet per second can cost a household $1 every month? This may not seem like much, but neglected leaks can worsen and multiply over time, costing you unnecessary sums of money.
That’s why it’s essential to get your leaks repaired as soon as you can, whether they’re coming from your shower, kitchen sink, or anywhere else at home. It may be tempting to try and put off this chore, but remember that doing so can be costly.
Update Your Hot Water System
Hot water systems that run inefficiently and/or are over a decade old may end up costing you extra, especially if they’re in constant need of repairs. Opting for an efficient, updated system instead will ensure that you’re not wasting your water and money. In fact, the cost of installation and of the new system itself may be offset by the money you’ll save in the long run!
If you’re willing to break a few bad habits and make some minor purchases to make your home more energy-efficient, you’re sure to see a meaningful change in your power bill every month. Want to get everyone else in the house involved? Send them this article and make it a team effort!
