Struggling To Pay Your Utility Bills? Here Are 5 Ways To Save
If you're one of the millions of Americans struggling to pay your utility bills -- whether it's water, gas, electric, heating and/or internet -- over the last six months to a year, this could be helpful. Here, Jacqui Kearns, who’s made consumer financial well-being a priority in her career, shares several quick fixes you can make for more cost-effective utility statements.
1. Start With Your Statement
Take a moment to review your monthly bill. Kearns said most energy providers are happy to advise on how and where they can budget energy costs over an annual payment plan. In addition, many companies will provide financial assistance or a referral to a service that can help you build a budget that works best for you.
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2. See If You Qualify for Energy Credits
Depending on your state of residence, you might qualify for local or federal emergency or energy credits. “Check your state’s website,” Kearns said. “In most cases, by calling 211 you will be connected to resources that can help with immediate fuel or energy needs.”
3. Seek Out a Free Energy Audit
Kearns said your utility company or local HVAC provider can assess where your home might be vulnerable to the weather through a free energy audit. They can provide recommendations or services for weatherproofing to mitigate these issues. What if you rent? Kearns recommends reaching out to your property manager. They can enlist these services on your behalf.
4. Mind the Dial
Adjusting your room temperature to be cooler during winter months and warmer during summer months can make a big difference in your utility costs. The ideal temperature for a room at night, according to the Cleveland Clinic, is between 60 to 67 degrees. Kearns said while this might sound cooler than the average room temperature of 72, the degree difference does add up when it comes to reducing heating costs.
5. Enlist Mother Nature’s Help
Small, natural touches are a big help in cutting utility bill costs. To stay warm in cooler months, Kearns recommends identifying which rooms in your home are southern-facing. Doing so will allow residents to gain warmth during the day by simply not drawing open the blinds or drapes. This, combined with great weatherproofing, can offer a natural source of heat and light during the daylight hours.
Don’t forget to bundle and buy, too. Stock up on home goods like thermal drapes, draft stoppers and blankets that can help with the warmth factor during especially cold days and nights. In warmer months, keep windows open for increased airflow and stick to cooler areas of your home.
This article was provided by MoneyLion.com for informational purposes only and should not be construed as financial, legal or tax advice.
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