5 Ways to Inspire Savings at Home
As the economy fluctuates, and with rising costs between gas and groceries, it has become a difficult time for families everywhere. Families now have to decide what is less important to cut back on, and where to pinch pennies. Staying on the right track budget wise, may mean eating out less or using “that” card—you know which one, to rack up those points. You have to stop to think, how long can cutting back will last? These five tips are everyday uses in the home, saving you more money and stress.
Programmable Thermostat
Invest in a programmable thermostat. Prices range between $60 and $299, with the best being Nest Learning Thermostat and Honeywell Lyric. They are efficient because they control not only heating and cooling, but also fans, heating pumps, humidifiers, and dehumidifiers, and you can operate them from your phone with an ease of mind. An added bonus, change ceiling fans for clockwise in winter and counterclockwise in summer to circulate air more and reduce the time it takes to reach optimal temperature.
Saves up to 20% annually.
Cancel Cable
Admit it, you binge watch right? Families are working longer hours to keep up with rising costs. You may miss your shows, so you catch up online. Stop and consider how much you do that? Has Netflix and Hulu (don’t pay for Hulu+, be patient and wait to see it free, because it’s not worth it) replaced your weekends? If so, cut cable costs entirely. You can still receive basic cable channels with an antenna or box, priced under $30. Better yet, go to the library and checkout movies and TV shows.
An added bonus often overlooked, cut down on internet usage from your cell provider, some like T-Mobile offer a free package, then connect to Wi-Fi.
Saves hundreds annually.
Make Cleaning Products
Vinegar and baking soda are inexpensive and a multipurpose product. Vinegar not only effectively cleans and disinfects, you can use it for cooking and first aid. The only downside is the smell, it is pungent for sure, but there are easy tricks to mask it. Much like lemon and lavender scented Lysol products, add citrus or essential oils to vinegar. If you use vinegar and baking soda to clean, you don’t have to worry about added chemicals prolonged exposure.
Save around $130 annually, depending on shopping habits.
Insulated Curtains – Updated Insulation
Replacing decorative curtains with insulated curtains helps save energy costs during summer and winter; you don’t want your heat or cool air to escape in the months they matter. In addition, they are constantly coming out with better designs. Prices range between $8 and $40 for these types of curtains. You might also consider updating your insulation with help from Reitzel Insulation Co Ltd. The savings that can be had with a more energy efficient can really start to add up at the end of the year.
Saves up to $100 annually.
Double-down on Mortgage in December
You can use this tip for other areas as well, take advantage of payments in a fiscal year for tax deductions. Paying more for your mortgage at the end of the year, reduces interest accumulated, so think ahead, and save towards your end goal.
Save hundreds annually.
Savings are everywhere around the house, from light bulbs to changing air filters. You always have to keep up with your homes maintenance to ensure you are saving as much as you can a year. Keep in mind there are still Tax Credits available through 2016, for Residential Energy Efficient Properties. Consider replacing current appliances for Energy Star equipment such as, solar hot water heaters or solar electric equipment. However, make sure you carefully follow all specifications in order to qualify for a Tax Credit.
Note: These are an estimated savings a year, which may vary.
Category: Saving Money
