If you’re looking for ways to cut down your utility expenses, there are plenty of things you can do. While being more conscientious about your energy and water use can help, there are also simple and relatively inexpensive household upgrades you can make. Swapping out your existing fixtures and appliances for their more efficient counterparts will not only help you save on your bills but can also net you some nice savings on your taxes.
Which upgrades should you invest in to save some serious cash in the long run? Let’s take a look.
Water-Efficient Fixtures
If you live in an older home and are still using the same dated fixtures that have been there for decades, you’re probably using (and paying for) far more water than you need to. According to the U.S Department of Energy, replacing old faucets and showerheads with low-flow fixtures can help you reduce your household water consumption by 25%-60%.
You’ll still get the water flow you need, but it’ll come with a much cheaper price tag. Plus, if your area ever experiences a water shortage, you’ll be good to go. If you’re not the handy type, it’s best to call a plumber who can handle the fixture installation process for you.
Programmable Thermostat
Even if your old manual thermostat is working fine, you’re probably spending more on your heating and cooling bills than you need to. Swapping out the device for a programmable or smart thermostat is an excellent way to both keep your home comfortable and save money on your utility bills.
With a programmable thermostat in place, you can set your HVAC system to maintain a comfortable temperature during the hours you’re usually home. You can also program it to a more conservative setting during the hours you’re typically away or sleeping.
For the average homeowner, a smart thermostat reduces heating and cooling costs by about 10%-20%, which translates to a savings of around $100-$180 each year. Over the life of the device — which is at least 15 years — those savings can really add up.
Again, if you’re not super handy, it’s best to call a heating and cooling pro to handle the installation for you.
Water-Saving Toilet
If you have an old toilet, it’s likely using way more water than it actually needs to. Every time you flush, your outdated toilet consumes between five and seven gallons of water. And if you’re like most people who flush at least five times a day, those gallons can add up quickly.
A water-saving toilet, on the other hand, uses as few as .8 gallons per flush, depending on the setting, which means it can dramatically reduce your household water usage. If you’re thinking about making the switch, doing a little research will ensure you select the best toilet for your needs and household size. You can choose from:
● Gravity-assist toilets
● Dual-flush toilets
● Pressure-assisted toilets.
● Vacuum-assisted toilets
● Composting toilets
Generally, dual-flush toilets are the most affordable option while pressure-assisted toilets fall on the pricier end of the spectrum. Whatever option you choose, you’ll need to have a plumber handle the toilet installation for you to ensure the best performance.
If you’re not sure you’re ready to make the switch but still want to cut down on your water usage, you can always opt for a water-saving tank insert while you decide.
Ready to Save on Your Heating, Cooling, and Water Bills?
If you’re tired of forking over a fortune every month for heating and cooling expenses and water bills, our team at Steve’s Plumbing & Heating is here to help. We specialize in fixture installation, toilet installation, heating and cooling, and several other services that can help you make your plumbing and HVAC system more energy efficient.
If you own a home in Wisconsin Rapids, Wausau, Marshfield, Stevens Point, or any of the surrounding areas, give us a call to learn more about how we can help you! You can reach us at 715-421-1800 or request an estimate online to get started.