Simple tips to reduce bills, environmental impact

Everyone wants to save a few dollar off their monthly bills, and if there is a way to do it that also helps the planet, all the better. There are a number of small steps that can be taken, using both old and new technologies, which can help cut down these expenses.

Changing the light bulbs throughout the apartment or home can be an easy money saver. According to the Energy Star website, Energy Star fluorescent bulbs use 75 percent less energy and produce 75 percent less heat than regular incandescent bulbs.

By switching regular shower heads to low flow versions, one could save between 25 and 65 percent on water consumption, and they only cost around $20 each.

By making sure weather stripping is frequently checked and properly sealing doorways and windows, one can reduce their monthly heating bill. Damaged stripping allows heat to leak out and costs to skyrocket.

Plugging electronic devices into a power strip and turning the strip off when the devices are not in use will save on the electric bill.  Many devices plugged into a wall with a clock or timer on them will draw power even while turned off.

Further, there are many new appliances designed for more efficient energy consumption, and, especially with older appliances, the purchase of an improved device can pay for itself in a matter of months through savings.

These are just a few ways to save on the bills while being friendly to the environment. With the colder months ahead promising many will be spending their time inside, reducing those monthly expenses is becoming even more crucial.

For more information and tips on how to reduce both your bills and your impact on the environment, visit the Environmental Protection Agency’s “Winter Tips” site, at epa.gov/epahome/hi-winter.htm.

[Image Credit: Svilen Milev]