Is it possible to save on bills?
2024, which has just begun, has brought some news regarding the gas market: from 1 January, in fact, VAT returned to the ordinary regime, given that the government eliminated the benefits that had been introduced to deal with the increase in prices following the war in Ukraine.
Furthermore, the enhanced social bonus, also valid for electricity and intended for those below a certain income threshold, will only be active until March 31st.
Therefore, new increases in gas and electricity costs are expected which will soon affect many families.
What can each of us do to pay less? We can certainly reduce consumption, while also helping the environment.
Here are some suggestions.
Habits
Our daily routine is often full of easily avoidable waste. It would take very little to save a little:
– Let’s turn down the heating. At home, it is always good practice that the temperature does not exceed 20°C in the living area and 18°C in the bedroom. It may be useful to use a timer to limit consumption to the times when they are most functional.
– Let’s reduce bathing in the tub and take shorter showers
– When we leave a room, remember to turn off the light
– Let’s start replacing classic lamps with LED and/or low consumption ones
Let’s use appliances well
Before using it, always wait until the washing machine is full and, if possible, choose low temperatures (30° – 40°).
The same goes for the dishwasher which should only be used with a full load.
If the program allows it, it may be convenient to exclude drying.
It is important to remember not to keep the refrigerator open longer than necessary, and never put food inside while it’s still hott.
Even defrosting it regularly allows it to do its job better, reducing consumption.
However, if it is too old, replacing it with a more efficient one can make the difference.
The oven, especially if electric, consumes a lot: prefer compact models rather than bulky ones, which normally require more energy.
Furthermore, it is good practice not to place it near the refrigerator.
Isolation and maintenance
We often don’t think about it, but eliminating drafts is a great help in containing heating costs. You can put double glazing on the windows or insulate the shutter boxes to limit the passage of air from the outside.
Closing the shutters at night prevents the heat accumulated during the day from dispersing.
Maintenance of the heating system is also fundamental and not only for safety: if everything works correctly, it consumes less.
By putting these small measures into practice we all have the opportunity to save money and promote a more sustainable lifestyle.
The Museum of Saving is constantly committed to making its contribution to creating awareness on the issues of environmental and social sustainability.
To find out more, visit the website and read the blog.