Cutting water and electricity bills: ten gestures that count

Electricity

Appliances that heat use the most.

• Switch to low-consumption bulbs.
• Turn off standby appliances and unplug chargers.
• Use the water heater sensibly, at a moderate temperature.
• Wash full loads at low temperature where possible.

Water

A small leak costs a lot over a month.

• Repair leaking taps and cisterns.
• Take showers rather than baths.
• Turn the water off while brushing teeth and soaping.

Track and set a goal

Note your bills each month to spot rises. Set a reasonable reduction goal, say 10%, and keep the savings made in a savings envelope: seeing the gain motivates. Avoid cutting back on safety or health.

Frequently asked

Is saving energy really worth the effort?

Yes: they are recurring savings. A few reflexes, once installed, need no more effort and cut the bill all year.

Read next

• Pocket money: a simple method to teach children to manage
• Financial education for teenagers: talking about money without taboo
• Family budget: organising a household's costs with children
• Supporting your parents financially: building it into your budget without strain