Yahoo Finance 9 Things To Buy at Costco To Lower Your Utility Bills
Whether it’s time for a new appliance or you’re looking for a few low-cost hacks to keep utility bills low this year, combining Costco deals with an energy-efficient mindset can yield significant savings.
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Here are nine items to buy at the popular warehouse store to reduce some of your home’s biggest expenses, broken down into three separate categories.
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Energy Star-Rated Appliances
When it comes to appliances, look for Energy Star Certified models. Costco offers delivery and installation included with your new appliance in most areas and will also haul away your old appliance. Here are three energy-efficient bets to start with.
Refrigerator
Consumer Reports suggests that top-bottom-freezer models are the most energy-efficient. The LG 23.8 cu. ft. Top Mount Refrigerator with Internal Water Dispenser costs only $50 per year to run.
Dishwasher
The highly rated Whirlpool Top Control 55 dBA Fingerprint Resistant Quiet Dishwasher with Boost Cycle is $599.99 (including $100 savings through March 6, 2024).
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Dryer
While gas dryers are slightly more efficient than electric, it doesn’t make sense to install a new kind of hookup, since that will cost more than the difference in savings (if it’s even possible). Look for something like this GE 7.8 cu. ft. Smart GAS Dryer or this GE 7.8 cu. ft. Smart ELECTRIC Dryer. Both have 12 dry cycles and are Energy Star Certified.
Heating and Cooling
Stay cozy year-round while saving some dough with these options.
Programmable Thermostat
With over 3,000 four-star ratings, you can’t go wrong with the Google Nest Learning Thermostat for $249.99.
Heat Pump
Heat pumps are good for the planet and your wallet. Costco has a line of DIY Energy Star-rated alternatives to traditional heating and cooling systems: MRCOOL E Star DIY 4th Gen Ductless Mini-Split Heat Pumps, from $1,499.99 – $2,299.99.
Space Heaters
Avoid the cost of heating unused rooms and stay cozy with an energy-efficient space heater. Keep an eye out for models with a shut-off timer and thermostat control, like the Lasko Ceramic Tower Heater with Remote Control, for $57.99.
Low-Cost Energy Savers
For a quick and easy upgrade that will save you money, try these swaps in your home.
Smart Power Strips
Many things you leave plugged in all the time can become silent energy vampires, racking up unneeded costs as they go. Costco sometimes sells smart power strips, which can shut down power to products that go into standby mode, saving 5-10% of your household energy consumption.
LED Lighting
Costco often sells energy-efficient LED bulbs in bulk packs. Feit bulbs come in packs from eight to 18, and range in price from $36.99 to $42.99, and upgraded Philips Hue bulbs come in packs of two to four bulbs, and range in price from $64.99 to $79.99.
Cold Water Laundry Detergent
Did you know that 75% of the energy costs of laundry come from heating the water? You can save money by using a detergent formulated for cold water or all temperatures and skipping the water heating altogether. You’ll also extend the life of your clothes, a win-win for the environment and your budget.
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