by Eleanor C.

Created on: June 06, 2009   Last Updated: June 18, 2009

If you rent your home or live in an apartment, you may feel that there aren't that many jobs you can undertake to save money as it is not your home.

As a renter, there doesn't seem to be much incentive, and because the home owner doesn't pay the bills, there is no incentive on their part either.

There are some options, and you can always optimize the equipment you have so that it can save you money. Here are ten tips to help you save money in your home.

1 - Lighting

Change your light bulbs. Make sure they are low-wattage energy-saving bulbs. Not only are they cheap to buy, but they are cheaper to run and you are doing your bit for the environment.

2 - Electricity

Switch off your lights and electrical appliances. Turn the television off instead of leaving it on standby. Boil only the amount of water that you need instead of filling the kettle up. Fill your washing machine and dishwasher to capacity before running them. Hang your clothes outside if possible instead of using the electric dryer. Doing all of these things will help to save money.

3 - Gas

Turning your thermostat down by one degree will cut costs. If you have a programmable thermostat, then program it to match your daily routine. Bigger savings are available to those who make more effort. Buying an insulating jacket for a water boiler is cheap and will save you money throughout the year.

4 - Low-flow shower head

Low-flow shower heads are an inexpensive way to save money on your water and water bills. They are cheap to pick up from your local hardware store and take only minutes to install.

5 - Use weather stripping around windows and doors.

A lot of heat can be lost through spaces around windows and doors. Modern weather-stripping materials and draft excluders are cheap and very good at minimizing the loss of warm air. It is easy to install and will stop your cash slipping through the doors and windows.

6 - Maintain your air conditioner.

If you have access to your air conditioner, clean and change your filters regularly. Regular inspections will give you an idea of how often your filters need changing. If your AC unit is exposed to direct sunlight, make a shade for it. Your AC condenser will run more efficiently at a lower temperature.

7 - Use window curtains and blinds.

This is a simple way to insulate your house or apartment therefore reducing heating costs. Close them at night to trap the cold air from the windows, and open during the day to naturally warm the house. The thicker the curtain, the more effective it will be at insulating your house.

8 - Telephone

There are many companies these days offering phone lines as a bundle with your cable or Internet connection. Shop around and find out what is the best for you. Also, when you have to phone a company to complain due a problem that is their fault, insist that they call you back rather than you having to pay the bill.

9 - Utilities

Do some research on costs of the utilities in your home. There are websites available dedicated to finding you the cheapest supplier for your needs, saving you money.

10 - Landlord

Make sure you are on friendly terms with your landlord. You will find that if you have a problem, then nine times out of ten, they will be willing to help you. After all, it is their house in the end. If you have serious heating issues, or dampness for example, then it is in the landlord's best interest to get it sorted out. The landlord will pay the costs, the house or apartment will have added value and the cheaper bills for heating amongst other things, will be yours.

Learn more about this author, Eleanor C..
Click here to send this author comments or questions.