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1. Turn Off Lights When You’re Not Using Them
You know that one friend who leaves every light on like it’s a concert? Yeah, don’t be that friend.
It’s a small move that adds up when you remember those bulbs don’t power themselves.
Use motion sensors in hallways or bathrooms so lights shut off automatically.
Switch to dimmable bulbs in areas you don’t need full brightness all the time.
Make it a routine. Lights off when you leave, lights on only when needed.
👉 Here's How You'll Do It: Flip that light switch every time you walk out of a room. It’s basically free savings.
Make It Easy: Consider using smart plugs that auto-turn lights off after a set time.
2. Wash Clothes in Cold Water to Save Energy
Hot water isn’t doing your wallet any favors, FYI.
Washing in cold water cleans just as well, and your energy bill won’t scream for mercy.
Cold cycles use less energy since no water heating is needed.
Detergents today work better in cold water than ever before.
Your clothes last longer, keeping colors bright and fabrics strong.
👉 Here's How You'll Do It: Next time you do laundry, hit that “cold wash” button. It’s that simple.
Make It Easy: Consider a laundry detergent designed for cold water, so you don’t sacrifice cleaning power.
3. Seal Drafts to Keep Warm Air Inside
Ever feel a random cold breeze while you’re sitting inside? That’s your money escaping.
Sealing drafts keeps heat where it belongs. Inside, not out in the wild.
Use weatherstripping on windows and doors to block leaks.
Add draft stoppers under doors to stop cold air from creeping in.
Check your attic insulation, especially before winter hits.
👉 Here's How You'll Do It: Light a candle near windows and doors. If the flame flickers, seal that spot.
Make It Easy: Consider a foam weatherstripping kit to quickly cover gaps around doors and windows.
4. Unplug Devices That Drain Power on Standby
Your phone charger isn’t sleeping when you are. It’s still sipping power like a midnight snack.
All those “off-but-plugged-in” devices secretly add up on your bill.
Unplug chargers, TVs, and consoles when not in use.
Use a power strip to cut power to multiple gadgets at once.
Smart outlets can shut off automatically when devices aren’t active.
👉 Here's How You'll Do It: At night, flip your power strip switch off. Boom, instant savings.
Make It Easy: Grab a smart power strip that cuts energy use automatically when idle.
5. Use Energy-Efficient LED Bulbs at Home
Those old-school bulbs are basically heating devices pretending to light rooms.
LEDs last longer, use less power, and don’t turn your house into a sauna.
LEDs use up to 80% less energy than incandescent bulbs.
They last for years, meaning fewer replacements and less hassle.
Cooler lighting options make your space feel fresh and modern.
👉 Here's How You'll Do It: Replace one bulb at a time in high-use rooms. It’s an easy switch (pun intended).
Make It Easy: Try a multi-pack of dimmable LED bulbs to light your home efficiently.
6. Take Shorter Showers to Cut Water Bills
You don’t need a 20-minute concert in the shower to feel clean.
Every extra minute literally washes money down the drain.
Cut shower time to 5–7 minutes and save gallons of water.
Install a low-flow showerhead for major savings without weak water pressure.
Turn off the water while shampooing or shaving. It’s easier than you think.
👉 Here's How You'll Do It: Set a timer or play one short song while showering. When it ends, so does your shower.
Make It Easy: Try a low-flow showerhead that saves water without killing the vibe.
7. Set Your Thermostat a Few Degrees Lower
You can still feel cozy without turning your home into a tropical resort.
Every degree lower can mean serious savings, and your heater will thank you.
Lower your thermostat 2–3 degrees in winter for quick results.
Wear layers or cozy socks instead of cranking up the heat.
Use a smart thermostat to adjust temps automatically while you’re away.
👉 Here's How You'll Do It: Pick a comfy “home temperature” and leave it there. No wild thermostat swings.
Make It Easy: Consider a smart thermostat that learns your schedule and adjusts on its own.
8. Run Appliances During Off-Peak Hours
Running your washer at 6 p.m. with everyone else? That’s when energy costs more.
Using appliances when rates are lower saves money without lifting a finger.
Check your utility’s off-peak hours, usually at night or early morning.
Use delay-start features on washers, dryers, or dishwashers.
Bundle laundry and dishes to run full loads during cheaper times.
👉 Here's How You'll Do It: Run your dishwasher before bed. It’s cheaper, quieter, and out of sight.
Make It Easy: Try a smart plug with a timer to schedule your appliances automatically.
9. Maintain Your HVAC System for Maximum Efficiency
Your heater and AC work hard. Don’t make them suffer for your forgetfulness.
A little maintenance keeps them running smoothly and prevents huge bills later.
Change filters every 1–2 months to avoid airflow problems.
Schedule yearly checkups for your system before each season starts.
Vacuum vents and clean ducts to keep air flowing efficiently.
👉 Here's How You'll Do It: Mark your calendar once a month to swap out filters. Your HVAC (and wallet) will breathe easier.
Make It Easy: Use an HVAC maintenance kit that includes filters and cleaning tools.
Hey, I'm Lily! I'm a mom who's really good at two things: stretching a dollar and talking about stretching a dollar. I created Money Vice after one too many grocery trips where I watched my total climb and thought, "There's gotta be a better way." Spoiler: there is. Think of me as your money-savvy friend who's always got a tip (and coffee in hand).
