In these hard times many of us are looking for ways to keep down our quarterly and monthly bills. One may think they have done all they can to bring down household expenses, but there may still be things you can do.
First tip: Take a look at your mortgage interest rate. If your interest rate is higher than the average, then ask the company concerned to look at your mortgage again to see if you qualify for a lower rate. You might want to hint that you’ll look elsewhere for a better deal. If you are a good customer your mortgage company won’t want to lose you and may very well come up with a deal to bring down your monthly payments,
Second tip: Don’t pay your bills by cheque. Go paperless and pay your bills online or by direct debit. This can slash your monthly bill by 10 percent or more in some instances. It is also better for the environment, and will save on paper and postage.
Third tip: Mobile phone rates vary so wildly now, and they all want your subscription. If your contract is at an end, or if you are a pay-as-you-go customer, start looking around; there are some really good deals to be had. Remember, you now have the right to keep your number.
Forth tip: We all use mobile phones now, and if you’re pressed for cash have you thought of cancelling your land-line? Many people have decided they don’t need a land-line anymore, and being without a land-line can save serious cash.
Fifth tip: If your water is on a meter, then you’re paying for every litre of water used. Look around the house to see if there is any waste. For example, try fitting a shower-water saving device. Repair any leaking taps as they can waste many litres of water over time. Lastly, consider putting a brick in the cistern as this will reduce of the volume of water at each flushing.
Sixth tip: If you have the cash consider installing electrical solar panels on the roof. Usually these panels are wired into the mains and the electric company will lower your bills according to the amount of electricity that is being produced from the panels.
Seventh tip: In the same token as above, consider water solar panels. During the summer months this will produce enough hot water for baths and showers, thus saving a fortune in gas over the summer months.