Changing your day-to-day habits might not seem like it would be impactful, but it could translate to big savings when it comes time to pay your utility bills. Here are four things to stop doing around the house now that could save you money in the long run.

 

Wash Clothes in Cold Water

It used to be that washing machines required hot water to really get clothes clean, but as washers and laundry detergents have improved, the recommended water temperatures have decreased! Unless you’re cleaning garments or linens that are heavily soiled or that have been in contact with a sick person, your laundry will get plenty clean with cold or warm water, which require much less energy.

 

Limit Thermostat Shifting

Whether you’re turning up the heat in the winter or turning up the AC in the summer, it’s tempting to just set your thermostat to your ideal temperature and let it run. But by compromising a few degrees and putting on a sweater or turning on a fan, you can save on your energy bills in the long term. Closing the blinds during the summer and investing in weather-proof windows and doors can also help regulate your home’s temperature without touching the thermostat!

 

Take Care of Appliances

For your appliances to work efficiently, it’s important to practice good upkeep! Change filters on the recommended schedule, keep appliances clean, and perform regular maintenance to make sure they’re not using more than their share of energy.

 

Turn Off Electronics and Lights

Leaving lights on when you’re not in the room is an easy mistake to make, but that energy expenditure adds up over time. By that same token, electronics are using electricity even when they’re turned off, so try unplugging them when not in use. If that sounds like too much of a pain, try plugging multiple electronics into a single power strip so you can easily switch it off when you’re finished.

 

If you’re looking for a place to shave some money off your utilities budget, these tips are a great starting point! By incorporating these simple habits into your everyday life, you could save enough to be guilt-free when you make that impulse buy or have that dinner out!