Though the steady rise in the cost of simple daily needs like water and electricity is beyond our control, there are things we can do to minimize our expenses.
Here are some cost-efficient ways to manage your electricity and water consumption.
1. Unplug when not in use
For instance, if you’re not using your water cooler or heater, it’s best to leave them unplugged. It’s also best to leave machines like your microwave unplugged when not in use.
2. Upgrade old appliances
Though refraining from purchasing new appliances seems like a good way to save, old appliances can use up more electricity, causing you to spend even more. Plus, old appliances usually need repairs, which will cost more in the long run.
3. Do not use lights during the day
Make use of natural light during the day. At night, don’t leave the lights on in rooms that are not in use. It seems simple, but this is a little saving trick that’s often overlooked.
4. Invest in air conditioning maintenance
Making sure your aircon is clean and functioning properly will help you save more. For instance, simply unclogging, cleaning, or replacing your aircon’s filter can help you lessen your energy consumption down to 5 to 15%.
5. Share a bedroom
If it’s possible, just make use of one air conditioning unit when sleeping. You can share a bedroom or decide to use electric fans in other rooms.
photo: dreamstime
When it comes to water bills, here’s how you can lessen your expenses.
6. Check for leaks
Make sure to have plumbers check your pipes regularly for leaks. You could be using up water constantly if just one pipe is leaking. Making sure all your plumbing is intact will surely help you slash your water bill.
7. Take shorter showers
This may seem obvious, but a lot of people forget to simply cutting down the time they spend in the shower can help them cut down on expenses.
8. Don’t let the water run while brushing or washing dishes
The same goes for other household chores and hygiene practices, like brushing your teeth or washing the dishes. Be conscious enough to shut the water off when not needed and to limit consumption as much as possible.
9. Re-use water for your garden
While showering, collect water in a bucket or you can save the water you used to boil your pasta to use later on to water your garden or clean outside furniture.
10. Go to the car wash
Instead of using your own water supply to hose down your car, why not bring it to the car wash instead? Surely it will cost less to have someone else clean it up, then using buckets upon buckets of water to clean, soap, and rinse it.
sources: Money Smart, The Money Advice Service, The Huffington Post, Energy.gov
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