During the summer months, utility bills tend to rise here in Arizona. That’s why we are bringing you some simple tips to save money on utilities. It’s easier than you might think to save money on utilities. With just a few easy changes you can be on your way to a more budget friendly Arizona Summer!
How to Save Money on Utilities this Summer:
Know Where You Spend the Most
It’s easy to create a budget but when the bills start rolling in it can be hard to know how to save money. The first thing you should do to save money on utilities is be aware of your spending. Where are you spending the most money on utilities? Where are you seeing the most increases? Before you can save money on utilities you have to be familiar with your bills and what is causing the spikes in cost.
Close Up | Turn Off
Arizona in Summer means air conditioning bills! Instead of just accepting that higher bill as part of the Summer trend, take some steps to save money on utilities. Close all the doors and windows and make sure that the seals are efficient. You can easily end up cooling parts of your home (or the outdoors) if you don’t have efficient windows and doors.
Another rule of thumb is to make sure that everything is turned off when it is not in use. Lights, electronics, and yes, even the A/C should be turned down or off when you are not home. You will be surprised by how much this one little difference makes in you utility bills each month. It can be tough to get into the habit of closing everything up and turning off unnecessary lights and electronics but once you make the switch you will see big savings.
Spend a Little to Save a Lot
Energy efficient appliances make all the difference. There have been some major improvements in the way appliances (and other large electronics) run and consume power. If you haven’t already made it a priority to outfit your home or apartment with energy efficient appliances you should start now! Start with the most draining appliances like air conditioners, refrigerators, ovens, and lightbulbs. LED bulbs last longer, use FAR less power, and some can be customized to work with your smart technology! The same goes for air conditioners and refrigerators that get a workout during the Summer. They need to be efficient or you will end up paying much more in utility bills all year long!
The cost of upgrading appliances can be scary but if you do the math you can probably see that the savings adds up rather quickly!
Contact Your Providers
Did you know that many utility providers have rate increases just like cable and cell phone providers? Make sure that you check your bills and are familiar with your charges. If there is something unusual, take action! If there is a lower rate to be had, call them up! Being pro-active and involved in your finances can save you a lot of money in the long run. It will also help you cut down on any unnecessary fees or charges. Companies are less likely to take advantage of a customer who they see is actively monitoring their monthly statements.
Prioritize Your Spending
Know what it important to you. There are going to be increases, even the most dilligent among us will see a rise in costs over the Summer months. To save money on utilities it is important that you allocate funds to the things that are important and take some away in the less important areas. Do you really need to or want to water the lawn or outdoor vegetation? Maybe the trade off in landscaping can be put towards your higher electric bill if you prefer a cooler home / apartment and vice versa.
Slow and Steady Wins the Race
It takes far less in electricity and run time to keep a space at a constant temperature. While it might seem silly to allow the A/C to run throughout the day, keeping your home at a steady temperature will cost less than constantly going from scorching hot to freezing cold!
The same goes for water! If you are caring for outdoor plants and vegetation you have to be consistent. Going from dry as a bone to saturated will take more than a light daily watering! It might be more work, but it can save you money, so it is worth the extra effort to put in daily.
