When Amazon launched Amazon Haul in November of 2024, it aimed to compete with budget-friendly shopping platforms like Temu. While it introduces affordability to Amazon’s ecosystem, Amazon Haul struggles to measure up to Temu in several key areas. Here’s a full breakdown and comparison so you bargain hunters can decide for yourself.

1. Product Selection

Amazon Haul

Amazon Haul boasts a curated collection of low-cost items priced at $20 or less, but this limited selection leaves much to be desired.

The range of products is narrow, primarily focusing on basic essentials.

I browsed the Haul interface for 10 minutes and was not impressed with the variety of items that were for sale, it felt like I was shopping at Dollar Tree but the prices were in the $2.50 to $6 range.

Also, the Haul platform can only be accessed via the Amazon app making it a little less accessible to older folks who aren’t smartphone and tablet savvy.

Temu

Temu offers an overwhelming variety of products across every imaginable category.

From quirky gadgets to niche household items, Temu caters to a broader audience with more options for customization and unique finds.

After browsing Temu for a few short minutes, I had 8 things in my shopping cart, ready to buy. They included work gloves, socks, a WAY cool little drone, and a dog bed for our Labradoodle.

Verdict: If you want variety, Temu easily wins.

See Also: 15 Brilliant Ways to Save at Temu

TEMU WINS ON VARIETY FOR ONE SIMPLE REASON

Amazon does NOT want their Haul business to cut into their regular shopping platform.

So it makes perfect sense that they’re going to offer a very limited selection of products. But for Haul to stick around, they’re going to need to up their product selection or I think this little experiment is not going to be around for long.

2. Prices

I checked the pricing on 25 different products on both Haul and Temu.

Products included a HDMI cable, a jump rope, table runner, sunglasses, flip flops, pill organizer, decorative lights, and an Apple Watch band.

The prices on Temu were cheaper on 22 of the 25 items.

Verdict: For true budget-friendly shopping, Temu’s pricing structure crushes Amazon Haul.

PRO TIP: TEMU WILL ALSO DO PRICE ADJUSTMENTS

After you place your order, Temu will give you money back via a price adjustment if they lower the price on something you bought within 30 days.

Simply go into your account, go to your order, and tap on “Price Adjustment” and they’ll automatically credit your account if the price dropped on something you bought, even if you haven’t received the item yet.

It’s free money, be sure to take advantage as the prices on Temu are very fluid.

3. Shipping Costs and Times

Amazon Haul: Despite being part of the Amazon ecosystem, Haul doesn’t offer Prime shipping benefits.

Orders over $25 ship for free, while orders under $25 incur a $3.99 fee.

Also, shipping times are surprisingly long, ranging from 1–2 weeks.

Temu: Temu’s shipping times are similar (7–21 days), but most orders qualify for free shipping without any minimum purchase requirement.

Verdict: Temu delivers a better deal by providing free shipping without strings attached.

EVERYTHING IS SHIPPED FROM CHINA

Both Haul and Temu ship the products they sell direct from China which is why their shipping times are on the longer side.

So if you’re someone who likes to buy U.S. made products you’ll probably not be a huge fan of either shopping platform.

4. Discounts

Amazon Haul: Discounts are minimal and tied to bulk orders (5% off over $50 and 10% off over $75).

For single-item purchases, there’s little incentive.

Temu: Temu is a discount powerhouse, offering frequent flash sales, coupons, gamified shopping rewards, and referral bonuses that keep costs low.

Verdict: Temu’s frequent promotions and gamified savings make Amazon Haul’s discounts look negligible.

5. Shopping Experience

Amazon Haul: The interface is straightforward but lacks engaging features.

There are NO customer reviews or detailed descriptions available, leaving buyers in the dark about product quality.

Temu: Temu’s app gamifies the shopping experience, offering spin-to-win games, referral codes, and rewards that keep users engaged and incentivized.

Temu also has very good product reviews written by shoppers along with pictures that often help you decide if the product is of good quality.

Verdict: Temu’s interactive shopping experience outshines Amazon Haul’s plain, unremarkable interface.

PRO TIP: MAKE TEMU REVIEWS YOUR BEST FRIEND

I had a brilliant comment left by a lady named Robin on my article about the Temu return policy that I need to share.

It’s all about reading the Temu reviews and looking closely at the photos in the reviews, especially when buying clothing.

Commenter Robin said, “The fabric of the actual clothes are not what it looks like in the displayed photo. A photo may look like linen, cotton, or jersey, but it mostly likely some type of polyester. So be sure to view all of the photos and look at photos on reviews if you can. Eventually you get the hang of what the fabrics will be like after some returns. The prints can seriously fool you too. It can look like a top or dress has embroidered elements and then it arrives and it is printed on the material.”

Temu has a HUGE advantage over Amazon Haul by actually encouraging shoppers to leave reviews and photos. Savvy shoppers can then use that information to decode what products are of good quality.

6. Value for Low-Cost Shoppers

Amazon Haul: The $25 minimum for free shipping and lack of consistent ultra-low-priced items make Amazon Haul less appealing to thrifty shoppers like myself.

Temu: With free shipping, no membership fees, and a focus on dollar-store-level pricing, Temu is better for shoppers looking for extreme value.

Verdict: Temu offers better value for smaller purchases, making it ideal for us frugal-minded shoppers.

PRO TIP: BE CAUTIOUS WITH HIGH TICKET ITEMS

Exercise caution when purchasing high-ticket items like electronics or furniture from Temu. Quality and durability may not match those of established brands, and returns can a major pain in the butt on big items like furniture.

7. Return Policy

Amazon Haul: Returns are free for purchases over $3 within 15 days of delivery. While reasonable, it pales in comparison to Amazon’s main platform and can feel restrictive.

Also, anything priced at $3 or less on Amazon Haul is considered Final Sale and is NOT returnable or refundable.

Temu: Temu offers a 90-day return policy, which is significantly longer. However, they only allow 1 free return per order.

So if you buy multiple items, return one of them, then decide later you want to return something else, you’ll be hit with a return shipping fee that is dependent on the size and weight of the item you want to return.

Verdict: While both platforms have their flaws, Temu’s longer return window gives it an edge.

PRO TIP: HOLD ON TO ALL PACKAGING

To make your Amazon Haul or Temu return much easier, hold on to ALL original packaging and bags.

These bags have the product’s UPC and barcode on them and are required for making a return in most instances.

If you lose the bag, you can place the item in a Ziploc and write the UPC number of the item on the Ziploc with a Sharpie. You can usually find the UPC on the invoice or receipt that came with your original package.

The Verdict…Temu Easily Wins

1. Better Prices: Temu consistently undercuts Amazon Haul on product prices.

2. Wider Selection: A massive product catalog at Temu ensures you’ll find something unique.

3. Free Shipping: No minimum order amount required for free shipping on Temu.

4. Gamified Shopping: Interactive features make the experience fun and engaging.

5. Frequent Discounts: Coupons, flash sales, and referral bonuses make Temu a savings paradise.

Amazon Haul’s debut is underwhelming compared to the more established Temu. Its limited selection, mediocre discounts, and lack of Prime perks make it feel like an afterthought in Amazon’s lineup.

If you’re looking for affordability, variety, and a little excitement, Temu is the better choice by far in my opinion.

Ask the Reader: Have you used both shopping platforms? If so, do you agree or disagree with my assessment?

By Kyle James

Stocking your pantry with foods that could survive an apocalypse—or at least outlast your gym membership—is a genius way to cut waste, save cash, and prep for the unexpected. These 26 superstar items are basically the vampires of the food world, refusing to age thanks to their magical chemistry, lack of moisture, and pure stubbornness against spoilage. So, let’s dig into why these foods give Father Time the cold shoulder and how you can help them live their best (and longest) shelf lives.

1. Honey

Why It Doesn’t Go Bad: Honey has natural antimicrobial properties, low water content, and high acidity, creating an environment unsuitable for bacteria or mold. Archeologists have even found edible honey in ancient Egyptian tombs.

Storage Tip: Keep honey in a sealed container at room temperature. Avoid introducing water or contaminants to prevent fermentation.

PRO TIP: CRYSTALIZED HONEY DILEMMA

If your honey crystallizes, place the jar in warm (not boiling) water to return it to its liquid state. Avoid microwaving, as high heat can degrade its beneficial enzymes.

2. Salt

Why It Doesn’t Go Bad: Salt is a mineral and doesn’t spoil because it has no organic components to decompose. It also inhibits microbial growth, which is why it’s used in food preservation.

Storage Tip: Store in a cool, dry place to prevent clumping caused by humidity. Use food-grade containers for long-term storage.

PRO TIP: ADD RICE TO YOUR SALT

For bulk salt storage, add a few grains of uncooked rice to the container to absorb moisture and prevent clumping in humid environments.

See Also: Stores Known for Marking Down Products in a BIG Way Near Expiration Dates

3. White Rice

Why It Doesn’t Go Bad: White rice has been polished to remove the oily bran layer, which is prone to rancidity. This makes it shelf-stable for decades.

Storage Tip: Use airtight containers or Mylar bags with oxygen absorbers to protect against moisture and pests. Avoid brown rice, which has a shorter shelf life due to its higher oil content.

PRO TIP: THROW YOUR RICE IN THE FREEZER

Freeze your new bags of rice for 48 hours after purchase to kill any potential insect eggs. Then store it in airtight containers with oxygen absorbers for maximum longevity.

4. Vinegar

Why It Doesn’t Go Bad: The high acidity of vinegar acts as a natural preservative, preventing microbial growth. White vinegar, in particular, can last indefinitely.

Storage Tip: Keep the bottle tightly closed and store at room temperature. Colored or flavored vinegars may lose their flavor over time but remain safe to use.

PRO TIP: VINEGAR HAS MANY USES

Use white vinegar as a natural cleaning agent for windows, counters, and drains. Store it in a spray bottle for easy access to a non-toxic cleaner that never expires.

5. Soy Sauce

Why It Doesn’t Go Bad: Soy sauce has a high salt content and undergoes fermentation, which creates a naturally preserved product. Unopened bottles can last for years, and even opened bottles stay safe for months.

Storage Tip: Refrigerate after opening to retain the best flavor and prevent color changes.

PRO TIP: DO YOU BUY SOY FROM COSTCO?

If you bought a large container of soy sauce from Costco or Sam’s, consider transferring it to smaller containers after opening to reduce exposure to air. This helps maintain flavor and freshness longer.

6. Sugar

Why It Doesn’t Go Bad: Sugar has a very low moisture content, making it inhospitable to bacteria and mold. When stored properly, it can last indefinitely.

Storage Tip: Seal sugar in an airtight container to prevent hardening and contamination by pests.

7. Dried Beans

Why They Don’t Go Bad: Dried beans are extremely low in moisture, which prevents bacterial growth. Over time, they may take longer to cook but remain safe to eat.

Storage Tip: Keep beans in airtight containers to prevent pest infestations. Adding bay leaves can help repel insects naturally.

PRO TIP: THE BAKING SODA TRICK

If older beans take longer to cook, add a pinch of baking soda to the water to help soften them faster without affecting taste.

8. Instant Coffee

Why It Doesn’t Go Bad: Freeze-drying removes nearly all moisture, making instant coffee immune to spoilage.

Storage Tip: Store unopened jars or packets in a cool, dry place. Opened packages should be resealed tightly to maintain freshness.

PRO TIP: ABSORB THE MOISTURE

Keep a small Silica Gel desiccant packet (like the ones found in vitamin bottles) inside the coffee container to absorb any moisture and maintain freshness.

See Also: 24 Often Overlooked Ways to Save Money at the Grocery Store

9. Powdered Milk

Why It Doesn’t Go Bad: Powdered milk has a low moisture content, especially when stored in oxygen-free packaging.

Storage Tip: Keep it in a sealed container away from heat and light. Rotate stock every few years for best flavor.

PRO TIP: THE OVERNIGHT TRICK

Use powdered milk to make creamy soups or desserts. Mix with cold water and refrigerate overnight for the best taste and texture.

10. Cornstarch

Why It Doesn’t Go Bad: Cornstarch is purely starch with no oils or proteins to spoil. It can last indefinitely if stored properly.

Storage Tip: Store in a dry, airtight container to prevent clumping from moisture exposure.

PRO TIP: DOUBLE BAG IT

Store cornstarch in a resealable plastic bag before placing it in its container to provide double protection against moisture and clumping.

11. Liquor

Why It Doesn’t Go Bad: Hard liquors like vodka, whiskey, and rum have high alcohol content, which acts as a preservative. They don’t spoil if unopened.

Storage Tip: Store bottles upright in a cool, dark place to protect the seal and prevent evaporation.

PRO TIP: NOT ALL LIQUOR QUALIFIES

If the alcohol has any cream in it, like Bailey’s Irish Cream, it won’t last forever. Figure 2 years tops if you keep it in the refrigerator.

12. Ghee

Why It Doesn’t Go Bad: Ghee is clarified butter, with all water and milk solids removed. This makes it shelf-stable and resistant to spoilage.

Storage Tip: Store in a tightly sealed jar in a cool, dark cupboard. Refrigeration extends its lifespan even further.

13. Spices

Why They Don’t Go Bad: Whole spices like cloves, cinnamon, and peppercorns have natural oils and antioxidants that slow down degradation.

Storage Tip: Store spices in airtight containers away from light and moisture. Ground spices lose potency faster but remain safe to use.

PRO TIP: UNLOCK THE FLAVOR

Toast whole spices in a dry skillet before grinding them to unlock their full aroma and flavor. This is especially useful for older spices.

14. Apple Cider Vinegar

Why It Doesn’t Go Bad: Like white vinegar, apple cider vinegar has high acidity, preventing microbial growth. The natural “mother” culture adds probiotics, which also help preserve it.

Storage Tip: Keep in a sealed bottle. Cloudiness or sediment is normal and doesn’t indicate spoilage.

15. Baking Soda

Why It Doesn’t Go Bad: Baking soda is a mineral compound that doesn’t degrade over time. However, its leavening properties for baking can weaken.

Storage Tip: Test its effectiveness by mixing a teaspoon with vinegar. If it bubbles vigorously, it’s still potent for baking.

16. Dry Pasta

Why It Doesn’t Go Bad: Dry pasta is made from durum wheat and water, with very low moisture content. This makes it resistant to spoilage.

Storage Tip: Keep in its original packaging or transfer to an airtight container to protect from pests.

17. Maple Syrup

Why It Doesn’t Go Bad: Pure maple syrup has a high sugar concentration, inhibiting microbial growth.

Storage Tip: Unopened bottles can be stored at room temperature. After opening, refrigerate or freeze for extended shelf life.

PRO TIP: DID YOU KNOW YOU CAN FREEZE SYRUP?

To extend the shelf life of opened maple syrup, freeze it in small portions. It won’t freeze solid due to its high sugar content, but it will stay fresh and ready for use. You can even use silicone ice cube trays for easy portioning.

18. Freeze-Dried Foods

Why They Don’t Go Bad: Freeze-drying removes nearly all water, making these foods shelf-stable for decades. Yes, literal decades.

Storage Tip: Keep freeze-dried foods in vacuum-sealed Mylar bags with oxygen absorbers.

See Also: Ultimate List of All The Store Brands Made By Name Brands

19. Canned Goods

Why They Don’t Go Bad: The canning process sterilizes food and seals it in an airtight environment. If unopened and undamaged, canned goods can last years past the printed date.

Storage Tip: Avoid storing cans in hot or damp locations to prevent rust and spoilage.

PRO TIP: ROTATE YOUR STOCK

Label your cans with the purchase date using a marker. This helps you keep track of the oldest items, ensuring proper rotation and usage.

20. Bouillon Cubes

Why They Don’t Go Bad: High salt content acts as a natural preservative, keeping bouillon cubes safe to use for years.

Storage Tip: Keep cubes in their original foil wrappers and store them in a sealed container to maintain flavor and prevent moisture.

PRO TIP: MAKE A POWDER

Crush bouillon cubes into a fine powder to create a quick seasoning for soups, stews, or even as a rub for meats. This also makes it easier to measure small amounts.

21. Tea Leaves

Why They Don’t Go Bad: Dried tea leaves have low moisture, preventing microbial growth. Black tea, in particular, ages well.

Storage Tip: Store in a cool, dry place in a tightly sealed container to protect from light and air.

22. Ramen Noodles

Why They Don’t Go Bad: The noodles are dehydrated, which makes them resistant to spoilage. Flavor packets may expire sooner due to oils.

Storage Tip: If the noodles are still dry and odorless, they’re safe to eat, even if the seasoning packet is discarded.

PRO TIP: TAKE RAMEN TO THE NEXT LEVEL

Transform ramen into a gourmet dish by discarding the flavor packet and using fresh ingredients like vegetables, eggs, or shredded chicken. Enhance the flavor with soy sauce, sesame oil, or chili paste for a healthier and more delicious meal.

23. Pure Vanilla Extract

Why It Doesn’t Go Bad: Real vanilla extract contains high levels of alcohol, which preserves it indefinitely.

Storage Tip: Keep it in a dark, cool cupboard to maintain its flavor. Avoid imitation vanilla, which can degrade over time.

24. Coconut Oil

Why It Doesn’t Go Bad: Coconut oil contains saturated fats that resist rancidity, even at room temperature.

Storage Tip: Keep in a cool, dark place. Solidified oil in cooler temperatures is normal and doesn’t affect quality.

PRO TIP: SUPER VERSATILE STUFF

Use coconut oil for more than just cooking—apply it as a natural moisturizer, hair conditioner, or makeup remover. Store in a cool, dark place to prevent it from turning rancid.

25. Gelatin Powder

Why It Doesn’t Go Bad: Gelatin is derived from collagen and has no moisture content, making it highly stable.

Storage Tip: Store in a dry, airtight container to prevent clumping.

26. Distilled Water

Why It Doesn’t Go Bad: Distilled water is purified and free from contaminants, giving it an indefinite shelf life when stored in a clean, sealed container.

Storage Tip: Use distilled water for humidifiers, car batteries, or even emergency drinking water. Keep it in a cool, dark place to avoid contamination.

Ask the Reader: What items did I miss? Let me know in the comments, thanks.

By Kyle James

I need to start this article by saying that I grew up in a house with the most frugal dad that ever walked the face of the earth. Lowering his electric bill was built into his DNA and some of it definitely rubbed off on me. With some clever strategies and a bit of creativity, you can significantly cut down on your energy costs without sacrificing too much comfort. I also added some “Go Extreme” options that are kind of silly but represent what some hard-core energy savers do on a daily basis. Let’s get to it…

1. Readjust Your Thermostat & Mindset

Your HVAC unit is by-far the biggest energy suck in your home, hands-down.

The absolute best way to save money on your electric bill is to adjust your thermostat in the summer and winter.

If you’re serious about lowering your bill, try setting it at 64 degrees in the Winter and 78 degrees in the Summer.

In the Summer, you’ll save 3% on your bill for every degree over 72.

In the Winter, set it down to 60 degrees at night and then turn it back up in the morning. And before you leave a comment, “catching up” isn’t actually an issue.

The time and energy your furnace uses to raise the temperature is far less than if it had been running all night, so you’re always saving energy and money.

The only exception is if heat loss to the outside is greater than what your system can provide, in which case, unfortunately, you’re losing efficiency regardless.

PRO TIP: MAKE SURE YOUR POWER ISN’T BEING STOLEN

Ensure no one is using your power without permission. Locate your electric meter, turn off all your breakers, and check that the meter stops running. If it doesn’t, investigate the cause. This happens more often than you might think and is worth checking out.

2. The Fan Rotation Trick

Most people know that ceiling fans help cool in the summer, but did you know that they can keep you warm in the winter, too?

During winter months, set your fan to rotate clockwise at a low speed.

This pushes warm air that rises to the ceiling down into the room, maintaining warmth and reducing the need for extra heating.

3. Smart Power Strips to Combat Phantom Power

Phantom power—energy used by devices even when they’re turned off—accounts for a surprisingly large part of your energy bill.

Combat this with smart power strips that turn off energy flow when devices aren’t in use.

Plugging things like TVs, game consoles, and kitchen gadgets into smart power strips is an easy way to stop unnecessary electricity drain.

See Also: Lower Your Bills By Negotiating – Here’s How

PRO TIP: EMBRACE ROOM-SPECIFIC COMFORT

Instead of heating or cooling your entire home, consider setting up zones. Use space heaters or fans in specific rooms where you spend most of your time.

Smart thermostats (more on these later) or even simple space heaters can allow you to focus warmth or cool air exactly where it’s needed, reducing the strain on your HVAC system.

4. Insulate Everything—Not Just the Walls

We know that good wall insulation is essential, especially in very cold climates.

But did you know that smaller insulation steps can make a huge difference, too?

Insulate around electrical outlets, cover exposed pipes, and even use draft blockers for doors and windows.

These little moves keep conditioned air in and cold or hot air out, reducing your HVAC system’s workload.

PRO TIP: ATTIC IS THE MOST IMPORTANT

Check the depth of the insulation in your attic. If it’s 3″ or less consider adding more, up to 12″ if you can afford it.

You lose A LOT of heat through your ceiling if you don’t have sufficient attic insulation. Way more than through your walls.

5. Maximize Sunlight

Sunlight is free energy, so let it work for you. During winter, open the blinds and curtains on your south-facing windows to let the sun’s warmth in.

During summer, keep them closed to block out heat and consider planting small trees in front of them.

Layering this with shades or blackout curtains can amplify the effect, keeping you comfortable without the need for artificial climate control.

See Also: Clever Ways to Use Social Media to Save Money

6. Run Appliances at Night

Many power companies have lower rates for energy used during off-peak hours, typically late at night.

Schedule heavy-duty appliances like washers, dryers, and dishwashers to run during these times.

Not only can this lower your bill, but it also spreads out the load on the grid, which can be beneficial during peak energy demand periods.

7. Adjust Your Water Heater Temperature

The default setting on most water heaters is around 140°F, which is often hotter than necessary.

Lowering it to 120°F can save on heating costs without affecting daily tasks like showering or doing laundry.

If you’re going on vacation, set your water heater to the lowest setting or even “vacation mode” to avoid heating unused water.

GO EXTREME: “LIVE BY CANDLELIGHT” EVENINGS

Commit to one or two nights a week where you don’t use any electric lights in your home, opting for candlelight instead. Candles (or even oil lamps) can create a cozy, old-world vibe while helping you get into the habit of conserving electricity. Bonus: it’s a great excuse for a quiet night reading or spending time with family.

8. Use Your Oven Wisely

Ovens consume a lot of energy, especially when preheating.

If possible, use smaller appliances like toaster ovens, air fryers, or slow cookers, which use significantly less electricity.

And when you do use your oven, try to cook multiple dishes at once to make the most of the heat. This way, your oven works double-duty with the same energy output.

Also, in the winter, always leave the oven door open when you’re done cooking and get that warm air in the kitchen. It drives me crazy when my kids leave the oven door closed and then complain about why it’s so cold in the house.

9. Dryer Balls and Line-Drying Clothes

Reduce your dryer’s energy use by using wool or rubber dryer balls—they help clothes dry faster by separating them, which allows more air to circulate.

On warmer days, consider line-drying items.

Even partially drying heavy fabrics outside before finishing them in the dryer can save energy and money.

10. Turn Down the Brightness on Your Screens

Many people don’t realize that high brightness settings on screens (TVs, computers, tablets) can increase energy consumption.

Lower the brightness on all your devices to save power and reduce eye strain.

For an even bigger impact, put screens on a “sleep” timer so they shut off automatically after a set period of inactivity.

GO EXTREME: GO OFF THE GRID PART-TIME

Disconnect from the grid during certain hours of the day, especially during peak usage times. To make this work, invest in a battery-powered system, solar charger, or a small generator that allows you to run essentials independently. By reducing peak-time electricity consumption, you might qualify for lower rates and avoid energy surcharges.

11. Smart Thermostat for Automated Savings

Investing in a smart thermostat can pay off quickly.

Many models allow you to set specific temperature schedules and will even adjust automatically based on your habits and local weather patterns.

Some can be controlled remotely from your phone, letting you adjust the temperature even when you’re not home.

12. Invest in LED Lighting—The Right Way

LED lights are up to 80% more efficient than traditional bulbs, but their placement and usage matter, too.

Use task lighting, such as desk or reading lamps, rather than lighting an entire room for small tasks.

Choose LED bulbs with dimming capabilities and invest in “daylight” or “warm white” options that suit the time of day and atmosphere, which reduces the need for additional lighting.

13. Go for Cold Washes and Shorter Showers

Washing your clothes in cold water reduces the energy needed to heat the water and is usually gentler on fabrics.

After your heater, your homes electric hot water heater uses the most electricity. So when it comes to hot showers, aim for shorter showers and use a low-flow showerhead, which reduces both water and water-heating expenses.

Better yet, start taking Navy Showers and your hot water usage will go WAY DOWN.

A Navy shower is when you let the water warm up, then immediately hop under and get fully wet. Then turn the water off and lather yourself up with soap and shampoo. Last, turn the water back on and rinse off.

Aim for having the water actually running for about 90 seconds and your hot water usage will GO WAY DOWN.

GO EXTREME: HEAT-FREE COOKING

Avoid using any electric or gas-based heat for cooking. Instead, focus on raw foods like salads, smoothies, and cold soups. When you want something cooked, try methods like using a sun oven, propane BBQ, or fire pit for outdoor cooking. This extreme approach can reduce energy consumption, especially in the summer when cooking often increases indoor cooling needs.

14. Unplug Chargers When Not in Use

Phone and laptop chargers left plugged in consume energy even when they’re not actively charging.

Unplug chargers when not in use, or keep them connected to a smart power strip that will cut off power automatically when they’re not drawing energy.

15. Strategically Place Mirrors

Mirrors can be powerful energy savers when used correctly.

Place mirrors on walls adjacent to windows to reflect natural light further into a room.

This can reduce the need for artificial lighting and even add a touch of decor to your home.

PRO TIP: INVEST IN A WHOLE HOUSE FAN

The best thing I ever did to lower my summer cooling bill was to install a whole house fan in the ceiling of our hallway. They work by pulling the cool outside air into your home in the mornings and evenings when it’s cooled off. You open a few windows, turn it on, and enjoy the cool air as it lowers the temperature of your home.

Note: I live in a area with a dry heat. If you live where it’s humid, the whole house fan is not as effective.

16. Don’t Overfill the Refrigerator

A packed refrigerator has to work harder to keep everything cool, which increases energy consumption.

Keep your fridge well-organized and avoid overstuffing it to allow cold air to circulate efficiently.

Regularly clean the condenser coils, as dust buildup can cause the fridge to use more energy.

GO EXTREME: SWITCH TO HAND-POWERED APPLIANCES

Try swapping out electric-powered appliances for manual, human-powered alternatives. For example, you could use a hand-cranked coffee grinder, hand whisk instead of an electric mixer, or even a manual lawn mower instead of an electric or gas one. These choices can cut back on energy consumption while giving you a mini-workout in the process.

17. Use Your Dishwasher Efficiently

Avoid pre-rinsing dishes, which not only wastes water but also undermines the dishwasher’s energy-saving features.

Only run the dishwasher when it’s full, and if your model has an “eco” setting, use it.

Air-dry dishes instead of using the heated drying option for even more savings.

PRO TIP: THE DISHWASHER DILEMMA

If your dishwasher is older than 8 years, you might be better off handwashing dishes. Handwashing uses more hot water, but older dishwashers likely heat the water even further, which might make them less efficient overall.

18. Adjust Furniture Placement

Furniture placement can impact heating and cooling.

Make sure air vents aren’t blocked by sofas, bookshelves, or curtains, as this restricts airflow and makes your HVAC system work harder.

In winter, keep furniture away from windows and doors to avoid chilly drafts.

19. Install Low-E Film on Windows

Low-emissivity (Low-E) window film helps block UV rays in the summer and retains warmth in the winter.

It’s an affordable, easy-to-install solution for windows that see a lot of direct sunlight, helping keep indoor temperatures stable without heavy use of your heating or cooling system.

GO EXTREME: UNPLUG THE HOT WATER HEATER

Commit to heating water only when you need it. Disconnect your water heater and use alternative methods, like heating small amounts of water on the stove or in a solar water heater outdoors for tasks like washing dishes. This move can be a huge energy saver, especially in warmer months when hot water is less essential.

20. Mind the Gap with Doors and Windows

Even the smallest gaps around doors and windows can let in drafts, making your HVAC system work overtime.

Install weatherstripping on doors and windows, and use door sweeps to block air leaks. It’s a quick fix that can make a noticeable difference in energy use.

21. Set Your Freezer Correctly

The recommended freezer temperature is around 0°F. Setting it lower doesn’t make food any safer but does increase energy use.

Keep your freezer at the correct temperature, and avoid overstocking to maintain efficiency.

22. Embrace Layering Indoors

In winter, try wearing extra layers rather than cranking up the heat. Wearing a sweater, socks, and even a cozy blanket can reduce the need for constant heating.

Keep fleece throws and warm slippers handy for family members, especially if you lower the thermostat at night.

And sleep with extra blankets because you NEED to lower the thermostat at night if you have any chance of lowering your electric bill. The nights is when your heater has to work the hardest to compensate for the cold.

GO EXTREME: DOWNSIZE YOUR LIVING SPACE

Consider moving your daily activities into one or two rooms and only heating, cooling, and lighting those areas. In extreme cases, some people create a “micro-living space” within their homes (think one cozy room for all daily functions) to conserve energy. By focusing all energy needs in a limited area, you can cut down on utility usage across the rest of your home.

23. Try Out Thermal Curtains

Thermal curtains provide insulation by trapping air between the window and the curtain, keeping cold air out in the winter and hot air out in the summer.

They can significantly reduce the need for extra heating or cooling and come in a variety of colors and styles to match your decor.

24. Optimize Your HVAC Filters

Dirty HVAC filters reduce air quality and make your system work harder, using more energy in the process.

Change filters regularly and consider high-efficiency filters to maximize airflow. It’s a simple maintenance task that can have a big impact on energy costs.

GO EXTREME: COLD WATER SHOWER ROUTINE

Skip the hot water altogether and make cold showers a daily ritual. Not only will this cut down on your water heater’s energy use, but it might also wake you up faster and is often touted as having health benefits, like boosting circulation and improving mood.

On a side-note, my Dad used to take cold showers…but he’s also the most frugal human being I’ve ever met.

25. Decorate for Efficiency

Decor can be functional as well as stylish.

Hang tapestries or rugs on walls and place thick area rugs on floors to add insulation to rooms, reducing the need for extra heating.

It’s a great way to bring warmth into your home without relying solely on the thermostat.

Ask the Reader: How do you lower the electric bill at your house? Let me know your clever tips and I’ll add them to my article.

By Kyle James