Let's Get Serious About Our Money

It's been two years since I began this blog, and time to talk turkey about our money! How has your money situation changed in the past two years? Better? Worse? The same?

If you're thinking about retirement and don't have a hollow tree filled with $$ acorns to supplement your retirement benefits (pensions, 401K, social security)... here's a tip for you. Live NOW like you're living on your retirement income... it may be a real eye opener. Can you meet all your current expenses? Is there any gravy for treats? You can get a projected benefit figure from social security here: http://www.ssa.gov/estimator/

Lately I've been hearing a lot of whining about electric bills (where I live power is $0.48 per KWH). Some people would rather pay and complain than do anything to reduce their bills. I look at utility bills as money poured down a rat hole. I'd rather have more $$ for treats than give it to the wasteful power company. Here's what I've done to keep my bill in the $50 monthly range. Caveat: I live in a very warm climate where winter heating is not a necessity.

First... I removed an old air conditioner and did not replace it. Instead I bought table fans. I have a ceiling fan that twirls lazily 24/7/365 to keep air circulating. When there's no breeze, I turn on the fans, one in each room. But only when I'm home. Jalousie windows are always cranked open for breeze and cross ventilation.

Second...I turn off /UNPLUG the power gobblers when I leave for the day...including computer, television, and cable box. The only appliances running are refrigerator, ceiling fan and two clocks. When I switched from a desktop computer/flat screen monitor to a laptop that goes to sleep when I close the cover, I was pleasantly surprised to see a drop in my power consumption. Who knew that old desktop was a power pig?

Third...the water heater. Mine is UNPLUGGED. Permanently. When I moved into my condo (which had been vacant for several years) I had no idea how old the water heater was and didn't want to take a chance that it had rusted out inside and would spew water all over the floor. Rather than replace it (down the road I may buy a tankless heater), I decided not to use it at all. The tap water is tepid... like Goldilocks' porridge, it's not too hot, not too cold, mostly just right. Since I pay for water by the gallon, not having hot water for showers helps conserve my water bill as well.

How do YOU cut your utility bills?

Penny Pincher