Owning and maintain your home put a significant dent into your income and likely takes up a major portion of your family budget. While paying for your mortgage, electric, gas, water, and even cable to an extent, are needs for a homeowner, there are certainly ways to cut corners to make saving money a priority and free up extra money each month.
1. Replace Older Appliances for Energy Efficient Models
The washers and dryers from the 1980s may still be in working order, but at the expense of your electric, gas, and water bills. Newer appliances no longer run on timers the way that older models do. Instead, washers monitor the water for soap levels, dryers stop when the moisture reaches a certain level, and dishwashers stop running when the water registers as clean. These investments can end up saving you money over time.
2. Seal Around Windows, Doors, and Vents
When it comes to keeping cooling and heating costs down it’s not just about keeping your thermostat set at a reasonable temperature. By taking a walk around the perimeter or your home, you can examine doors, windows, and vents that are shared with interior walls. By sealing with caulk, you can keep outside air out, and inside air, in, as intended, and will help manage these costs.
3. Use Smart Home Devices
There are a so many smart home devices now, but if you’re looking to invest in smart devices while saving money, there are other options besides just Alexa. You can purchase a smart thermostat, or a system that allows you to control electrical devices from your phone. With many devices you can program times of day when various appliances are out of commission. Set restrictions on how long TVs can be left on, and set a timer in the morning that turns out all unnecessary lights. Smart home devices can be an investment, but they have an immediate impact on your electric bill.
4. Harvest Your Rain Water
It may take you a minute or two to let that sink in, but throughout much of the country people are living in drought areas and have serious restrictions on water use. Whether you live these types of areas or not, you can collect rain water with as little as a $10 investment in a terracotta storage container and a new spout for your gutter system. Use this rain water to take care of your lawn, garden, and even for cleaning purposes. It’s a great way to reduce your impact while lowering your water bill.
5. Find Cheaper Home Insurance
Many people stick with their home insurance carrier for years before wondering if there are cheaper options available. It’s not like it was twenty years ago when comparing rates meant talking to an insurance broker or making phone calls all day. You can now find a cheaper home insurance rate by comparing online. You could save thousands of dollars each year by exploring what other insurance carrier options are available. Many insurance companies offer packaged deals as well, so coupling your car and home insurance could have an immediate impact on your monthly bills
6. Do Your Own Repairs
You can now take up a useful new skill and start watching YouTube videos. A homeowner that can fix their own appliances, and take on regular maintenance can save the household hundreds each year in insurance premiums or contractor costs.