Save on your electricity, gas and water bills this fall

There are so many expenses that we have to juggle each month. From rent or mortgage payments to grocery bills to gas, you’re faced with an endless stream of bills. And of course, there’s always the utility costs on top of that. So, how can you save money on monthly expenses, like gas, electricity, water, and air conditioning bills? Instead of straining your budget and paying hundreds of dollars each month, consider making some behavioral changes that will reduce your energy usage and lower your bills.

CNET staffers have been keeping tabs on the fluctuating energy bills over the past few months and have written countless articles with tips and tricks on how to lower your energy bill. There are effective ways to make more money every month, and many of them involve small lifestyle changes you can make today.

Below we have collected all the articles that can help you achieve lower electricity, water and energy costs. And if you like this cheat sheet guide, you can also check out our solar cheat sheet and our home sustainability cheat sheet.

Average national energy bills

In the US, the average family can expect to pay around $300 per month for electricity, gas, water and sewer. However, this price can vary greatly depending on region and usage.

Here’s a breakdown of the average monthly utility costs, according to Move.orgas well as a look at the 10 states with the highest average energy bills in the US:

• Electricity: $117.46
• Natural Gas: $61.69
• Water: $45.44
• Sewer: $66.20

Save money on your electricity and gas bills

Electricity is probably the most important utility and the biggest energy bill for Americans. You may have noticed a spike in electricity bills in recent years, the reason for this is the rising prices of natural gas. Natural gas accounts for about 38% of the country’s electricity production, so these accounts are understandably related.

Natural gas prices are expected to remain high, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration. Since many household appliances use natural gas, including stoves, ovens, dryers, refrigerators and gas furnaces, your bill could be significant.

Here are some proven ways to reduce your electricity and gas bills:

For tenants who may not be able to make large-scale adjustments, you can try the following: these 10 apartment-friendlytips to save energy.

Save on your water bill all year round

Between showers, sinks, toilets, dishwasherswashing machines and gardening, you probably use more water than you think. The average American household uses more than 300 liters of water daily, according to the Environmental Protection Agency. In total, this amounts to about $1,000 per year on water bills. Your monthly bill may be lower or higher than this depending on your location, water usage, water-saving technology and other factors.

It is important to save on your water billHere’s how you do it:

More tips to save money in the summer

On average it costs between $75 and $175 per month to run a central air conditioning system and cool a home in the U.S. For many Americans in the South and Southwest, summer is the most brutal time of year for spending.

Here’s how to beat the heat without breaking the bank:

Learn to save money in winter too

Winter can be a precious time of year for many Americans in colder climates who rely on ovensHere are some tips to help you save more money:

For all your heating information, discover our FAQ about winter assistance programs.

Stay tuned to CNET’s Tips for home for more advice on how to save money and get jobs done around the house.

For more cheat sheets, check out all the Alexa and Google Home tips you need to know , your guide to installing solar in your home , and how to leverage your home’s internet options .