Whether you’re living independently or with roommates, you’ll need to pay utility bills. Your monthly utility bill usually includes charges for electricity, water, and gas. Some states also add sewage and garbage, so check your bill to see exactly what it covers. If your bills feel too high or you’re struggling to make ends meet, you’re in the right place. Here’s how to save money on utilities in an apartment.
How to save on your electric bill
As the largest part of your bill, reducing your electricity costs is one of the best ways to save on utilities. Getting a home energy yardstick or assessment can help you understand your utility costs. Once you know which habits and appliances draw the most energy, you can make changes to cut your costs. Here are some small changes that can really help.
- Turn off lights and fans when you leave rooms.
- Plug electronics into power strips and unplug unused devices.
- Ask your property manager to replace old appliances with ENERGY STAR-certified items.
- Use ceiling fans rather than the air conditioner when possible.
- Close the drapes, blinds, doors, and windows on hot days to keep heat out, and open drapes and blinds on cooler days to take advantage of natural light.
- Turn off electric heaters when you’re away from home.
- Switch to LED light bulbs.
How to save on your gas bill
Your gas bill is largely based on your heating usage, so getting that under control will reduce your costs. These tips can help you heat your apartment smarter.
- Program the thermostat to maintain an ideal temperature only when you’re home and awake.
- Clean your air filters to help them run more efficiently.
- Ask the property manager to replace worn weatherstrips.
- Use doorstops to block drafts under doors.
- Put on a sweater or robe if you’re cold at home.
- Use a portable heater to heat small rooms rather than using the furnace to heat the whole apartment.
How to save on your water bill
You use water in your apartment when you shower, wash dishes, and cook. If your apartment has its own laundry, washing clothes can also add to your bill. Don’t forget about any water that you drink from the faucet. Being conscious of your water usage can help you identify ways to save.
- Switch to a low-flow showerhead.
- Take shorter showers.
- Turn off the faucet when you’re brushing your teeth, washing your face, or shaving.
- Ask for an ENERGY STAR-certified dishwasher or washing machine when these appliances need replacing.
- Run the dishwasher and washing machine only when there’s a full load.
- Ask the property manager to fix any leaks or drips.
How to save on your internet/cable bill
Your regular utility bill usually doesn’t cover internet or cable. As with traditional utilities, it’s important to find ways to reduce these extra bills. Here are some ways you can lower your cable/internet bills.
- Downsize your plan to only include what you need.
- Bundle your internet and cable with a single provider.
- Negotiate a lower price with your provider.
- Remove premium channels. If you can’t do without them completely, consider only subscribing when your favorite shows are available.
- Get rid of extra cable boxes.
- Watch missed programs on-demand rather than using a DVR.
Whether you’re looking for a new apartment or already have a great one, using these tips can save you money on your utilities so you’ll have some extra cash to spend on the things you want.
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