Most homeowners are on the lookout for ways to lower their monthly bills. And in today’s world, many are also striving to reduce their carbon footprint. While installing new, eco-friendly plumbing and heating systems can be costly, there are many ways homeowners can spend less on their utility bills while also protecting the environment. Here are three of them.
1. Lower your water consumption Using less water is an important part of preserving the Earth’s resources and doing so will save you money on your water bill. There are many ways to do this, from installing low-flow faucets, shower heads and toilets to turning off the tap while you brush your teeth and wash your hands. Another way to conserve water is to install a rain barrel. You can use it to catch rain water and then hose your garden with the captured runoff. 2. Automate your heating and cooling system Being able to heat your home during our cold Alberta winters is essential, and many people rely on their air conditioning to keep them cool in the summer. However, constantly keeping your home at the same temperature can cost you, especially since much of the time you’re not at home. To save on your heating bill, use a programmable thermostat in the winter to automatically lower the heat by a few degrees while you’re out of the house. Do the same when you’re sleeping in the summer, apply the same principle to keeping your house cool. In addition, you can keep the curtains closed during the hottest part of the day to keep your home cooler. 3. Lower the temperature on your water heater Your water accounts for a good portion of your home’s energy bill. Most heaters are set a standard 60° However, not only does it take more power to store water at this but water that’s this hot can scald or burn your skin in a matter of seconds. Lowering the thermostat on your water heater can save you money on your monthly bills and protect members of your household. Don’t lower it too much though. Water that’s cooler than 49° Celsius doesn’t prevent bacteria growth, which is why the government of Canada recommends this as the lowest temperature setting for water heaters.