As if being in a drought and an energy crisis wasn’t enough, fuel still costs a fortune!

I decided to do a family challenge. I am showing my children our actual energy bills so they can see in numbers how much it costs. I don’t remember my parents ever doing this, probably because they didn’t want us to worry about the cost of anything, and I’m not doing this to worry my children… instead I’m hoping to give them a number to come under for next months bill.

I hate walking into an empty room and seeing lights on and the TV on. It’s an absolute waste of money and energy, both of which should not be wasted. The same goes for extra long showers and leaving the water running when you are brushing your teeth. I feel really old saying this but when I was younger they actually taught us at school to conserve water. We were told to turn the water off when brushing our teeth and to remind our parents to water the lawn at night and to never rinse a driveway… only to brush it off with a broom.

I’m worried about the cost of water, electricity and fuel. But I’m even more concerned that there won’t be any left for my children when they are older.

I don’t think that running out and buying a hybrid is the solution. But I think that if we all do little things we can add up to cost savings and conservation for the future.

Here how I’m doing my part… how about you?

1. Grouping errands. This one step really adds up with gas savings. I actively plan my trips and it’s not always easy when you get your work assigned like I do (which is at random times at random days) but I still manage to do as much as I can grouped together.

2. Turn off the water when I’m brushing my teeth.

3. Take quicker showers. Did you know that a bath actually saves water and gets you cleaner? It just takes longer and time is a consideration too!

4. I bought some reusable canvas bags. The hardest part about using these in the beginning was remembering to use them!

5. Constantly remind myself and others to turn the lights, TV, computer, printer etc. off when not using them.

6. Recycle. If you really worked it you could make some extra money just recycling your own items. It might also help you spend less money on items that you have to pay a deposit on as the deposits add up too. Don’t forget to recycle your ink and toner. And don’t forget to purchase recycled ink and toner.

7. I replaced my toilets and dishwasher. These really needed to be replaced and I was at the point were they were just not functioning right. Having to run the dishwasher twice is a waste and expensive, but when I replaced these items I looked for the energy star products that save on electricity and water and I asked for any special energy rebates. I was able to get a hefty rebate from the manufacturer and the local electricity company.

How do you sale on your utilities? Any good tips? I’d love to hear them!