Saving money is a resolution that is on nearly everyone's list this New Year and with small adjustments, it is totally achievable even on the smallest of budgets.
One of the easiest ways to save money is to look at how you are spending it and see what changes can be made, starting with things as simple as your utility bills.
If you are finding times tough or looking to put a few bob away each month, here are some simple ways to make significant savings by making small changes around the house that you can do right now most of which you can do with little or no cost involved.
Unplug everything.
Unbeknownst to many, items left on standby or plugged in use up energy. Get into the habit of unplugging all electrical devices when you are not using them.
Shop around.
Compare and switch energy gas, oil and electricity suppliers every year. Use sites such as www.bonkers.ie and www.switcher.ie to compare prices which could save you anything up to €500 a year.
Upgrade applies.
Choosing energy-efficient appliances could save you hundreds each year by simply choosing the most energy-efficient model the next time your washing machine, fridge-freezer or tumble dryer packs in.
Insulate your tank.
Looking after your boiler by insulating it correctly with a lagging jacket could reduce your heating costs by a third. It is also very important to have your boiler serviced every year to help it run efficiently, to avoid breakdowns and to ensure its safety.
Replace light bulbs.
When bulbs blow, switch to LEDs. LED lights use 85% less energy than standard bulbs.
Choose online billing.
Most if not all energy suppliers offer online billing and will give you a small discount for using it over paper bills in the post. Online bills are archived meaning once you log into your account you will have access to all pat bills plus usage habits.
Wash clothes on cold.
Cold water requires a lot less energy to wash your clothes meaning you will save money over time.
Use appliances to their full potential.
Avoid using a dishwasher or washing machine when it's not full, half-full appliances use the same amount of electricity as a full load. Otherwise use half-load settings if you have one.
Cut draughts.
Preventing heat from escaping can save you money on your utility bill by simply blocking up chimneys and fireplaces that you don't use and by using draught-proofing strips on gaps around doorways. You can also seal and caulk to help prevent any draughts.
Thaw food first.
Thawing food before cooking will not only save time but it can also help reduce the amount of heat it takes to fully cook.
Hang dry clothes.
During the summer months especially, hang dry clothes out in the sunlight as much as possible. Clothes dryers are divils for using up energy quickly racking up a bill.
Cook with lids on.
Not only will it enable your food to cook properly, but it will also speed up the cooking process saving you money on your leccy bill.
