Hi friends 👋
Fun fact: I (Kim) was an anthropology major in college!
As such, I realize that we all have unique backgrounds, perspectives, and values.
However, there are some experiences that seem universal.
Like having a parent that’s obsessed with the thermostat.
At fifteen, I didn’t care about my energy use and would crank that puppy down so I could sleep at a cool 65℉.
Now that I’m a twenty-something that pays her own bills, things look a lot different (sorry dad! 😅) and I’m focused on saving $$$.
Today, I’m sharing our favorite hacks to save big on utility expenses.
🔋 How to Save on Utilities
1. Run appliances at off-peak hours. This is one of our favorites because it can be used by homeowners and renters! Call your local utility company and find out what peak hours are for your city. It’s important to call and not assume that it’s after 9 p.m., especially if you live in a city with a lot of nighttime activity (i.e. major hospital). While you’re on the phone, make sure to ask if there’s a discount to switching exclusively to off-peak hours.
2. Ask for an energy audit. While you’re on the phone with your provider, ask for an energy audit! This is generally a free service your utilities office provides that can identify additional ways to save and/or where you’re leaking energy from.
3. Perform regular maintenance. Fixing leaky ductwork, replacing furnace filters, and adding insulation will save money in the long run because less energy will escape over time.
4. Invest in your home. This might sound counterintuitive, but have you considered getting energy-efficient appliances, a cooling roof, or replacing your old, cracked windows? These are an investment up front, but will reduce energy usage and lower your costs over time. These one-time investments can make a big difference in a monthly bill! PLUS many utility providers offer rebates for such upgrades and some even provide grants. Another reason to call your provider!
5. Negotiate. There’s a good chance that your utility provider is not the only one in your area. Use a free website like In My Area and input your zip code to find all utility providers in your region and compare rates.
Considering getting a loan to replace that old roof for something more energy efficient?
Check out Smart Credit. Smart credit helps you maximize your credit score so you can get the best possible interest rates on your loans. **
🍀 Bonus!
Watch Jen’s video over on Instagram explaining how Smart Credit maximizes your score.
Comment on the video letting us know what you think!
🎫 Win a $100 Gift Card!
Leave a rating/review on apple podcast and be entered to win a $100 gift card! Just send a screenshot of your review to jen@frugalfriendspodcast.com to be entered!
Catch you later,
Kim
⭐️⭐️ P.S. Want to share all this goodness with your friends AND earn cool Frugal Friends merch?
**Means this is a sponsored or affiliate section. We may earn a small fee or commission when you choose to try one of our sponsor or affiliate partners. But opinions are still 1000% our own.
