This is a guest post by Veronica Hughes, who likes to write, travel & visit www.grouphealthinsurance.org.

There are a lot of ways to save money on utilities, and this is one of the most important things for young couples to consider when they are starting out, because not planning ahead means a lot of money wasted down the road. Obviously, everyone wants to get the best deal, but there are many steps young couples can take after they’ve signed a contract to minimize their consumption too.


1. Efficiencies

One of the best ways a couple can save money is to move into an efficiency. This is a great way to save large amounts of money, because electricity and heating, are likely already included in rent. If it’s not, it’s likely going to be a very small bill each month, because you’re only paying to heat, light or cool a single room. Consider consolidating your bills too, because that means less money each month, less hassle and less time spent paying bills.

2. Electricity

If your electricity is capped, then you should consider buying a space heater and just using that for heat. Your electricity bill will stay constant, but you’ll be warm too! The same can be said for central air. If your apartment is large but you only need A/C in your bedroom, buy a window unit and use that instead of heating the whole place.

It is also very important that your appliances are kept in the right condition.  Clean the filter of the A/C and dryer regularly, at least once a week, if used daily.  This will keep your unit working efficiently. Old refrigerators usually have worn-out seals, thus, letting cold air out.  Try leaving an open flashlight inside the refrigerator, when light creeps out in between the seals, this means it’s time for a replacement.  Remember that an appliance that works much harder, uses more energy.

3. Laundry

Find out how much it costs to use your washer and dryer versus using a machine in your building or neighborhood. Depending on the area you live in, you may be surprised at how much you might save. If you decide to use your own machines, use as little soap as possible (many garments only need soap every other wash anyway) and try to use cold water as much as possible.

4. Bonus Tips

Consider working at the same job, building or neighborhood as your spouse to save money on gas, because you could carpool. If this isn’t possible, send an email to co-workers to see if anyone could stand to carpool with you. Imagine cutting your gas bills literally in half. Even if you and your co-workers have to drive a bit to pick each other up, you’ll likely still save money only driving every other day or once a week.  Aside from this, you and your spouse may also consider riding your bike to work or use the city’s public transportation system.  This does not only help you save on gas but will give you good exercise daily.

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