Top 5 Ways Homeowners Can Lower Monthly Expenses Immediately
All of us are looking to cut costs, save money and just ride out the recession but how do you incorporate immediate savings? There are things you can do right now that will instantly provide savings leaving more money in your pockets.
1. Do you really utilize every room in your house? Most of us don’t utilize every room every day yet we tend to leave on lights to have our homes look a bit more lived in. Which rooms don’t you use? Unplug unnecessary appliances; not just turning them off but unplugging them because as long as an item is plugged into a socket it is still using an electrical flow and you are still paying for it. That’s right – the lamp may not be turned on but it’s using electricity that you still have to pay for. Unplug lamps not in use, clocks and any kitchen appliances that can be unplugged.
If you don’t use the kitchen toaster every day, unplug it along with the other small countertop appliances.
One of the second biggest energy drainers is your desktop computer and your flat screen television. Many of us fall asleep with the TV on as well as allow our teenagers to do the same; did you know you could be saving up to $40 a month on your energy bill if you turn them off and unplug? It may seem harsh to unplug your computer but if you are cash-strapped each month this is a surefire way to save on your electric bill.
2. Check open vents in every room. Do you have a guest room that’s empty? Close the vents to move heat and air to the rooms that are being used. If you aren’t using the basement and rarely venture down there, close the vents and the air will move to the next open vent.
3. Run the dishwasher once a day; yes, there are many people who turn the dishwasher on twice a day which uses more water. Cut down on your clothes washing. If you wash three times a week, cut it down to twice a week and instead of washing during the day when energy is at the prime rate, wash at night time when rates are lower.
4. The more obvious is call the Cable and Phone company and see what deals are available. Try bundling your services and they will give you a special rate. Also, stop the premium cable channels for a while and don’t order Pay-Per-View which is just another set up to get more of your money. Try searching for your favorite shows on Hulu.com, which is free.
5. Change your menu for the family. Eat out less and cook more at home; stop buying lunches and start taking leftovers to work. Also, one of the biggest expenses at work is beverages. Try water; it’s cheaper and most often you can get it for free. Also, look at your eating habits and switch up a few items; include more fresh vegetables and less meat and more fresh fruit. It’s amazing how much we spend at the grocery store but when you get it home you wonder where did all that money go? Spend more wisely and always go to the store with a list in hand. Walking the aisles provides too many options that we tend to just toss in the basket.
It’s not too difficult if you sit and think about all the ways you can cut out the unnecessary and include what’s really needed in the home.
