Would it help to talk this through?
A certified counselor will go through your own numbers with you. The session is free and there is nothing to buy.
Start small#
Lightbulbs - Energy efficient lightbulbs can have a huge impact on your yearly savings. Look for bulbs that are CFL or better yet, LED for maximum savings. Sure, CFL and LED bulbs may cost you more than the classic incandescent bulbs initially, but you’ll be saving much more in the long run. Try waiting for sales if you’re still unsure of the starting costs.
Not a lot of money, no problem!#
Everyday ways to save money:
Refrigerator – Clean your condenser coils a few times a year. These are usually located below, or behind the fridge and can get clogged easily, especially in older models. Once this gets clogged, your fridge has to work much harder to get the airflow that it needs to run more efficiently. Make sure you have a dust mask on when you’re cleaning!
Phantom Power – Unplug any devices that you are not currently using. It’s true that one cell phone charger left plugged in won’t cost you too much. However, how many devices do you have plugged in at the same time that are all using ‘phantom power’, or slowly using power that doesn’t benefit you at all?
Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)#
According to the Benefits.gov website, LIHEAP “assists eligible low-income households with their heating and cooling energy costs, bill payment assistance, energy crisis assistance, weatherization and energy-related home repairs.” You must be below the maximum income level requirement to qualify. If you do qualify, this could be a great way to explore your options for making your home more energy efficient, and possibly see if you qualify for help paying your bills.
If money is tight right now
Cambridge Credit Counseling is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit. A counseling session is free, and there is nothing to buy. If it would help to read more first, here is HUD-approved housing counseling.