We are currently living in tough economic times thanks to the pandemic, which means that we are going to have to save and scrimp as much as possible in order to make sure that we get through this with minimal economic disruption. But whether you are looking to make ends meet or are a small business owner trying to keep costs down until your revenue can recover, there are always ways to save money on your utilities. Here are a few small tricks you can try to help keep costs down.

Unplug Appliances

Most of us turn off appliances when not using them, and then go on our way thinking we have conserved energy. But in fact, most appliances which you leave plugged in will still consume small amounts of electricity when not in use. These includes chargers, kitchen appliances, and any electronics in your living room. Direct Energy estimates that leaving devices plugged in can cost a household an extra $100 to $200 per year.

If plugging and unplugging everything in constantly sounds annoying, consider purchasing a smart power strip bar. These look like normal surge protectors but can help keep unused electrical appliances from wasting electricity and money.

Fix Those Leaks

Even children hear the statistics on how much water a small leak can waste over hours, days, and even years. Leaky faucets may only waste a few dollars per month, but a leaking toilet in particular can waste as much as $70 per month. Leaks can also cause further costs, as pooled water can cause to your building's structure or other harm.

You can consider checking out YouTube or the internet for simple DIY plumbing tips but call a plumber to take care of small leaks if you are even 1% uncertain of completing a job.

Smart and Green Technologies

I mentioned smart power strips as a method to save on electricity costs, and there are many sorts of smart technologies to create a smart home or business. And one of the primary benefits of the smart home is how it can save on utilities over the long run.

A simple, and cheap example is a smart light bulb which can cost around $10 to $20 each. While that may sound expensive for light bulb, smart bulbs can automatically turn off when you are not there or dim themselves when you do not need as much light. The result is a more energy-efficient bulb which lasts longer.

Check your Thermostat

This may not be necessary now that spring is here, but heating costs are an overlooked part of utilities as we handle business gas prices. If you have the money and time, this is a good time to consider insulating your home, especially your attic where the heat rises.

If you do not have those resources, there are still other things you can do to save on heating costs. Invest in dark, heavy drapes that can help keep heat in and then remove them when summer arrives. Put your laundry out on clotheslines if you have the space. And put on a sweater and keep the thermostat down. A smart thermostat is another smart technology you can consider which will quickly adjust itself to stay at the temperatures you like the best.