Find local pros for your project
Tell us what you’re looking for and we’ll show you pros right for the job, with prices.
Updated
By Melanie Fourie
Did you know that 20% of Americans were unable to pay their power bills in the last year, and at least 28% had to cut down on essentials like medication and groceries to meet their utility costs? While this 2021 Help Advisor survey points to the somewhat unpredictable culprits of inflation and energy price hikes, that’s cold comfort to those impacted by these difficulties.
Unfortunately, everything adds up: cranking the AC, running dehumidifiers, using the pool, taking longer showers — you name it. Fortunately, there are simple things you can do to cut back on utility costs. Steer clear of these bad habits this summer to save money on your power bill.
Summer activities, events and traveling may mean you’ll have more laundry to do every week. Hot water usage accounts for about 18% of your utility bill. Switching from hot to warm water can lower your energy usage in half, according to the Department of Energy (DOE). When possible, lower the temperature on your washing machine for extra savings this summer.
To break some bad water usage habits this summer, be mindful of how much H2O you use in the home — and on the lawn. Here’s how:
As you host family gatherings and dinner parties at home this summer, you may find yourself in the kitchen a bit more than usual. When you’re cooking and cleaning, try to follow these DOE recommendations:
During the summer, you’ll likely use your appliances more often. If you have an older AC system, fridge, dishwasher, washer or dryer, consider upgrading to high-efficiency models with an Energy Star label. These appliances may significantly reduce your water and electricity consumption.
Here are a few signs it might be time to replace your appliance with a more energy-efficient version:
If you think it’s time for a change, hire a home appliance professional near you.
The HVAC system in your house consists of air filters that require replacing on a regular basis if you want the system to work properly. These filters capture dirt, dust and other airborne particles — and when they clog up, your HVAC system must use more power to draw in fresh air.
Change the filters every three months to keep your system as efficient as possible and avoid wasting money on energy. Not sure how to replace them? Contact a top-rated HVAC professional near you.
Just because it’s summertime — and probably raining less — that doesn’t mean your home isn’t susceptible to leaks. Dripping water may seem irrelevant at first, but it accumulates over time. What’s worse: wet areas caused by summer humidity and hidden leaks may lead to the formation of mold, mildew and other issues in your home.
Always pay attention to the parts of your house that are fair game for leaks. Check around kitchen sinks, toilets, drip irrigation systems, outdoor spigots, garden hoses, ceilings, basements and plumbing fittings. Avoid letting little leaks get out of hand
Remember also that your faucet or shower head could be leaking due to a damaged washer or a faulty seal. Contact a plumber near you if your taps are still dripping after you’ve turned them all the way off.
Pro tip: If humid temperatures and leaks have led to mold issues, contact your nearest mold remediation professional to eradicate it. If your home is mold-ridden, your family's health is at stake — and the resale value of your property may be affected as well.
Operating a swimming pool is expensive enough. This summer, avoid driving up your bills even more.
If you need help maintaining your pool, hire a pool cleaning service near you.
Fixing things like a swimming pool filter, faulty appliance or even a toilet tank flapper can be challenging if you don't have the knowhow. Reducing your utility bills in these instances is as simple as hiring a Thumbtack professional near you to assist.
Tell us what you’re looking for and we’ll show you pros right for the job, with prices.