FAQs
Is budget billing from my utility company worth it?
Budget billing, also called level-pay, can be a great tool for managing a fixed income. It averages your estimated annual utility cost into twelve equal monthly payments. The main benefit is predictability—you won’t be surprised by a huge heating bill in January or a high cooling bill in August. However, it’s not a discount. You still pay for the energy you use, and the company will periodically adjust your payment amount up or down if your actual usage differs from the estimate. It’s excellent for cash flow management but doesn’t lower your overall cost.
Which home repairs are simple and which ones need a permit?
Simple repairs like changing a faucet washer, replacing a toilet flapper, clearing a drain, or patching a small hole in drywall generally do not require a permit. As a rule of thumb, you need to call your local building department and get a permit for any work that alters your home’s structure (like removing a wall), electrical system (like adding a new circuit), or plumbing system (like moving pipes). When in doubt, a quick call to your town or city hall is the safest bet.
How do I politely ask for a senior discount without feeling awkward?
It can feel a bit strange at first, but cashiers are asked this question all the time. A friendly, low-pressure approach works best. As they are ringing up your items, you can simply ask with a smile, “I was just wondering, do you happen to offer a senior discount?” If they do, they’ll let you know the terms. If they don’t, a simple “Okay, thank you for checking!” keeps it pleasant. It’s a business transaction, and there is no reason to feel embarrassed for seeking available savings.
What is the safest and most efficient temperature for my water heater?
The Department of Energy recommends setting your home’s water heater to 120°F. Many manufacturers set them to 140°F, which poses a scalding risk and wastes energy by maintaining that higher temperature. Lowering it to 120°F is hot enough for all your household needs, including dishwashing, and is much safer, especially if you have grandchildren visiting. It’s a simple adjustment that provides both safety and savings.
Do home energy monitors actually save money?
A home energy monitor is a device that shows you in real-time how much electricity your home is using. By itself, the monitor doesn’t save you any money. The savings come from how you use the information it provides. Seeing a big spike in energy use when your old refrigerator kicks on might finally motivate you to replace it with an ENERGY STAR model. Noticing that your “off” electronics are still drawing power can prompt you to use power strips. It’s a tool for awareness, and that awareness can lead to behavior changes that result in lower bills.
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, legal, medical, or building-code advice. Utility rates, rebates, and discount policies vary by region and provider; always verify information with official sources. Please use appropriate safety gear for all DIY projects and hire licensed professionals when work requires a permit, involves systems you are unfamiliar with, or whenever you feel unsure.
