Ways to Save Money

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Some ways to save money during these hard pressed times are always on the minds of Americans and others. Here are some simple ways to save money every month.

Pack your own lunch. Rather than go out to eat daily, pack a lunch from home. The night before make more than your family can eat and pack the leftovers for lunch the next day.

Car pooling is a unique way to save money on gas. It might not be as inconvenient as one thinks, if the person(s) work in the office and do not have to travel during the day. This works even if you do not work. Neighbors can band together to go grocery shopping, etc.

At home, gradually change the light bulbs to more energy efficient ones.

Try to wash clothes in cold water. This will save the energy used to heat the water.

Do not wash small loads of clothes. Wait until you have a full load. This, too, saves energy. Washing dishes and clothes during the off-peak hours (9 – 12 p.m.) works to save energy, also.

Use the microwave rather than the range. This will save on your electric bill.

Turn off lights, televisions, computers, etc., when not in use. Also, those red lights on the power stand-by plugs use electricity. The utility people say that even if an appliance is not on, but plugged in, this will use energy, also.

Have a cold meal, twice a week. This means a sandwich, salad, or something that does not have to be eaten hot.  This will save on energy costs, also.

Lower the thermostat in the winter. Raise it in the summer, if you have air conditioning. Remember to reverse the ceiling fan in the Winter to distribute the heat. Use ceiling fans in the summer to cool off a room, even when the a/c is on.

Energy costs consume a great portion of a person’s monthly bills. These hints will help decrease those monthly costs. Also, ask your energy company about equalized  billing, which will enable you to pay a fixed amount monthly.