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Three easy tips to save money on utilities during the holidays

With inflation squeezing Americans' budgets, every dollar counts. These tips can help lower your utility costs.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — When it comes to saving money during the holidays, many people are willing to try anything. One way can do this is by adjusting your energy usage. 

Writers at Yahoo Finance offered multiple tips to save money on your utilities to stretch your money further this holiday season. 

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We all know not to keep the water running, but the writers took it a step further. You can save more money by not opening your tap all the way. By reducing the flow, you're reducing the excess water that isn't being used. 

Speaking of water, consider the temperature. The National Resources Defense Council, or NRDC, has some data to back up this tip. You can turn down the temperature of your water heater. The NRDC says many are cranked to about 135 or 140 degrees. Researchers say taking the temperature down about 20 degrees can save you up to $400 per year. 

WCNC Charlotte is always asking "where's the money?" If you need help, reach out to WCNC Charlotte by emailing money@wcnc.com.

And finally, you can strategically use your ceiling fan to keep your home warm. Writers suggest changing the direction of your fan to clockwise during the cold months. Because hot air rises, the clockwise rotation of your fan will push some of that warmer air back down into your room. According to Home Depot, this simple flip of a switch can reduce your utility bills up to 15% during winter months. 

Contact Kia Murray at kmurray@wcnc.com and follow her on FacebookX and Instagram.

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