How to save on utilities
Small changes at home can add up to real savings on your power and water bills each month.
Key takeaways
- Unplug idle devices to stop hidden electricity drain
- Wash clothes in cold water and run full loads
- Report dripping faucets fast — they waste hundreds of gallons
- Ask your utility company about free assistance programs or LIHEAP
Utility bills can feel like they are impossible to control. But small habits and a few free fixes can actually make a real difference. You do not need to spend a lot of money to spend less on electricity and water.
Start with your lights. Switch off lights when you leave a room. This sounds simple, but it adds up fast. If you can, swap old bulbs for LED bulbs. LED bulbs use much less electricity and last longer. Some dollar stores now sell them for just a couple of dollars each.
Unplug things you are not using. TVs, phone chargers, and game consoles still pull power even when they are off or idle. This is called phantom load. Unplugging them when you are done can shave a small but real amount off your bill.
Check your thermostat if you have one. Lowering the heat by just two degrees in winter or raising the air conditioning by two degrees in summer can cut your bill noticeably. Wearing an extra layer inside during cold months is a free way to stay warm.
Do laundry in cold water whenever you can. Most modern detergents work just as well in cold water. Heating the water in your washer uses a lot of energy. Also try to run full loads instead of small ones.
For water, fix dripping faucets as soon as you can. A slow drip can waste hundreds of gallons a month. Many landlords are required to fix leaks, so report them right away. If you own your home, a new faucet washer often costs less than a dollar at a hardware store.
Take shorter showers. Even cutting two minutes off your shower every day adds up to big water savings over a month. You can also turn off the water while brushing your teeth.
Contact your utility company and ask about low-income assistance programs. Many power and water companies offer bill discounts, payment plans, or energy audits for free. You may qualify even if you are not sure. It never hurts to ask.
Also look into programs like LIHEAP, which is a federal program that helps low-income households pay heating and cooling costs. A local community action agency can help you apply.
Every little step helps. You do not have to do everything at once. Pick one or two ideas and start there.
Related FAQs
Common questions about this topic, answered simply.
What is LIHEAP and do I qualify?
LIHEAP stands for Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program. It is a federal program that helps people with lower incomes pay their heating and cooling bills. Eligibility depends on your income and household size. Contact your local community action agency or visit benefits.gov to find out if you qualify.
How much can I really save by unplugging devices?
Estimates vary, but phantom load from idle electronics can account for roughly 5 to 10 percent of a home's electricity use. Unplugging devices or using a power strip with an on/off switch is a free habit that can add up over time. Your savings will depend on how many devices you have and how often they are left plugged in.
My landlord controls the heat. What can I do?
Talk to your landlord about any utility issues, especially if heat is included in your rent. You can still save by wearing warm layers indoors, using draft stoppers under doors, and covering windows with curtains to hold in warmth. Check if your city or state has tenant rights around heat standards.
Can I get a free energy audit?
Many utility companies offer free or low-cost home energy audits, especially for customers on low-income rate plans. An auditor visits your home and points out where you are losing energy. Call your utility company and ask directly, since these programs are not always advertised widely.
Is it worth buying LED bulbs when money is tight?
LED bulbs cost more upfront than traditional bulbs but use significantly less electricity and last much longer, which means you save money over time. You can often find basic LED bulbs at dollar stores or discount retailers for just a dollar or two. Replacing even a few high-use bulbs can help lower your bill.
What if I cannot afford to pay my utility bill this month?
Call your utility company before your bill is overdue. Many companies have hardship programs, payment plans, or can delay shutoff while you work things out. Local charities, churches, and community action agencies may also offer emergency utility assistance. Acting early gives you more options.
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