If you want to reduce your carbon footprint and live a more environmentally-friendly lifestyle, chances are that you’ve heard of “going green.” Going green is simply the process of reducing the amount of energy that you need to live. Many individuals and families alike don’t realize just how much energy their lifestyle actually consumes. Maybe you drive several large vehicles in order to cart around your kids and their sporting gear, but you don’t realize just how much gas your car really uses. You might live in a large house because you love having the extra space, yet don’t consider how much extra electricity you use to light, heat, and cool your home. Perhaps you have a habit of leaving the air conditioner on when you leave the house so that it will be cold when you return. No matter what your current lifestyle may be, there are a number of ways you can reduce your energy consumption. You may have already tried things like turning off the lights when you leave the room or washing your dishes by hand. One of the most valuable ways to save energy, however, is to compare utilities to make sure that you’re using the company that is best for the environment.
Call several utility companies to ask about their green initiatives
Many companies have green initiatives. A green initiative is simply a way that companies try to motivate their consumers to live more energy-conscious lives. This could be something as simple as a company asking consumers to use CFL bulbs in their lights or it could be something as dramatic as a reduction in your energy fees if you make energy-friendly choices. For example, a utility company might offer a rate reduction or rebate if you install energy-efficient appliances in your house. While not all companies offer these initiatives, many do. Utility companies that offer green initiatives may be exactly what you’re looking for when it comes to finding the perfect energy provider for your family. Call several utility companies to ask about their services. When you compare utilities, make sure that you find out what areas they service. Some utility companies may have wonderful programs and rates, but might not service your specific area. Also ask about new customer specials and find out what steps the company is taking to make the world a more environmentally-friendly place to live.
Find out whether you’re paying a fixed rate for your utilities
Do your utility bills vary incredibly each month? You might be paying different rates each month. When it comes to utilities, not all prices are created equal. Consider calling your utility companies to talk about their rates. For example, if you purchase propane, you might be paying the regular price for each gallon of propane that you buy. While this price could be reasonable one month, it may be much higher the next month. Call your propane company to find out what fixed rate plans they have available. You may be able to get a discount by prepaying for your propane or for setting up regular deliveries of gas. Additionally, make sure that you compare utilities for your electricity, as well, as some companies may offer a military discount or other specials.
Change the source of your energy
If you just can’t seem to get ahead of your bills even after you compare utilities, you may want to consider changing the type of energy that you use. If your stove, washing machine, and hot water heater are all electric, maybe you’ve noticed a recent change in your bill. Maybe you even suspect that your appliances are using much more energy than they need. Many appliances begin to use excess energy as they age. If you’ve been thinking about replacing your home’s appliances with more energy-efficient ones, you may also want to consider whether you should use natural gas, propane, or electricity to power your appliances. Consider speaking with your neighbors about which types of energy they use in their home and what they’re happiest with. You might be surprised that a simple change from propane to electric or from electric to natural gas can actually start to save you money on your energy bills.
Sam Jones the author recommends to all his readers thinking of switching small energy supplier to visit uSwitch.com a comparison website where you can compare utilities from all the main energy providers.
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