Essential Utilities for Your New Home: A Complete Guide to What You Really Need

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Moving into a new home or apartment is an exciting milestone, but ensuring that all home utilities are properly set up before move-in day is essential. Without reliable electric service, water supply, and internet service, daily life can quickly become inconvenient.

From understanding monthly utility bills to knowing how to set up utilities with the right service providers, this guide covers everything you need to make your transition smooth.

What Utilities Do You Need in a New Home?

The four basic utilities every homeowner or renter needs include:

• Electricity. Your electric company supplies power for lighting, appliances, and air conditioning. Choosing the right electricity provider can impact your electric bill significantly.
• Water and sewer. A municipality or private utility company provides clean water and wastewater services, which are typically included in monthly utility bills.
• Natural gas. Homes using natural gas require a gas bill to cover heating, cooking, and the water heater.
• Trash collection. In some areas, trash collection is included in the monthly rent, while others require a separate utility bill for waste management.

Additional Utilities to Consider

Beyond these essential services, other home utilities may be required, depending on your living space. Some people may consider these essential, though they don’t fall into the list above.

• Internet and Wi-Fi. Reliable Internet service is a necessity for most new homeowners and renters. Many service providers bundle Wi-Fi with cable TV for cost savings.
• Cable TV or streaming services. While traditional cable TV is declining in popularity, some residents still prefer bundled packages.
• Security systems. A monitored security system can enhance safety, and some utility providers offer smart-home security integrations.

Tip: If you’re moving into a new apartment, check with the property manager to see which apartment utilities are included in your monthly rent.

How to Set Up Utilities for a New Home

Setting up utilities in a new home should be done at least one to two weeks before move-in day to avoid delays.

Steps to Set Up Utilities

1. Contact local utility providers. Research electric service, water bill, and gas bill options available in your area. Some locations allow you to choose from multiple electricity providers, while others assign a local utility company.
2. Schedule service activation. Some utilities require a credit check or deposit before service can be turned on.
3. Transfer or cancel existing services. If you’re moving out, make sure to close accounts at your old address to avoid being billed for unused utilities.
4. Set up automatic payments. Most utility companies allow you to set up auto-pay to avoid late fees and disruptions.
5. Confirm service on move-in day. Test all utilities, including electric service, Wi-Fi, and water, to ensure everything is working properly.

Best Practice: If you’re renting, check whether your landlord or property owner includes any utility services in the lease agreement.

What Are the Average Utility Costs?

The cost of utilities varies based on location, energy usage, and home size. Here’s an estimate of average costs for a new apartment or house:

Average Monthly Utility Costs

Factors That Affect Utility Costs

• Home size and number of occupants. Larger homes and those occupied with multiple residents will result in higher energy usage.
• Climate and seasonality. Regions with extreme temperatures may have higher costs from air conditioners or heating.
• Energy efficiency. A new home with energy-efficient appliances will typically have lower utility bills.
• Type of utility plan. Some electricity providers offer budget-friendly options, such as prepaid plans or time-of-use rates.

Tip: If you have roommates, consider splitting monthly utility bills to make costs more manageable.

Is a Phone Bill Considered a Utility Bill?

A phone service bill can sometimes be classified as a utility, depending on the situation. While landline phone service is often included in home utilities, cell phone bills are generally seen as personal expenses.

When a Phone Bill is Considered a Utility

• Business use. Some employers reimburse phone service costs as part of home office expenses.
• Rental agreements. Some landlords include basic landline service in the monthly rent.
• Bundled services. Some internet service providers offer phone service as part of a package.

Tip: If your employer reimburses utility costs, check whether your phone bill qualifies.

How to Save on Home Utilities

Lowering utility costs starts with small changes that reduce energy usage and improve efficiency.

• Upgrade to a smart thermostat. Smart thermostats optimize heating and cooling, reducing the electric bill.
• Choose energy-efficient appliances. Look for Energy Star-certified appliances to reduce electricity bills.
• Use water-saving fixtures. Low-flow showerheads and faucets help lower the water bill.
• Compare electricity rates. Research electricity providers to find the best rate for your new home.
• Bundle services. Many service providers offer discounts for combining Wi-Fi, cable TV, and phone service.

Tip: Some municipalities and utility companies offer rebates for switching to energy-efficient appliances.

The Future of Home Utilities: Trends and Innovations

As technology advances, the way we manage home utilities is changing. Here are some emerging trends that will shape the future of utility services:

• Smart home technology. More residents are integrating smart thermostats, Wi-Fi-controlled appliances, and automated energy monitoring systems.
• Solar and renewable energy options. Many utility providers now offer renewable energy programs to reduce dependence on traditional power sources.
• Prepaid electricity plans. Some electricity providers allow customers to pay in advance, offering greater flexibility in managing electricity bills.
• Energy-efficient home designs. Newer homes are being built with insulated windows, high-efficiency HVAC systems, and solar-ready designs to cut utility costs.

Expert Insight: As cities push for energy efficiency, utility companies and municipalities are working toward reducing utility costs and increasing sustainability.

Final Thoughts

Setting up home utilities is a critical step when moving into a new home. From securing electric service to budgeting for monthly utility bills, planning ahead ensures a smooth transition at your new address. Enroll with Payless Power today to find a flexible electricity plan that fits your needs.

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