Do you really need a faucet with the strength of a fire hydrant just to wash dishes? Swapping in a low-flow model can cut the water bill by 25 to 60 percent. A low-flow showerhead saves even more.
Low-Flow Faucets and Curtain Tricks to Cut Your Bills

Keeping the television, computer, stereo, blender, microwave, toaster, coffee maker, and other non-essential appliances plugged in at all times means they're quietly drawing power from the wall without even being used. Plug them into a power strip instead, and you can turn everything off with a single button.
Install Low-Flow Faucets
Use Curtains and Blinds to Cut Cooling Costs
The best time to put curtains and blinds to work as a natural heating or cooling system is summer and winter. Reflective blinds can reduce heat gain by about 45 percent in summer; in winter, use window treatments to trap heat inside instead. Drapes cut heat loss too.
Got a handy tip of your own?
Reply and let us know, we love hearing your tips.
This edition is part of the Genius House Hacks archive — 20+ years of tips, rebuilt from the original Handy Hints newsletter. Browse more hacks →