Owning a home comes with a lot of financial responsibility. Between your mortgage, utility bills, and upkeep, and maintenance, it’s smart to look for simple ways to cut your costs and save money whenever possible. Use the tips below as inspiration to make small changes and save money around the house!
1. Choose energy-efficient appliances
If you’re a new homeowner, you may be finding yourself in a situation where you need to buy appliances for an empty home. While they may cost more up-front, purchasing appliances that are geared toward energy- efficiency will save you money and last longer.2. Unplug appliances when not in use
Appliances continue to draw energy even when they’re not in use. Consider unplugging devices such as the coffee pot, toaster, blender, your cell phone charger and other non-essential appliances in between uses.3. Air dry your laundry
Not only is air-drying good for the environment, it’s also helpful in keeping your energy costs down! Hang a drying rack in your laundry room or, if you’re able, install a clothesline outside. The more you air -dry, the more you will save. Not to mention limiting the exposure of your clothes to the harsh heat of the dryer will help them last longer and prevent them from shrinking!4. Install ceiling fans
Ceiling fans are a cheap, efficient way to keep the air moving in your home. They can help you get away with keeping your thermostat a few degrees higher in the summer and lower in the winter.5. Insulate
Insulating your home will cut down on drafts and heating costs. Insulating can be as involved as adding insulation throughout your home or as simple as weather-stripping your doors and windows.6. Reassess your cable, phone and internet subscriptions
These three costs can really add up! Take a look at what you’re paying for every month and what services you’re actually using and adjust your subscriptions accordingly. Sometimes even a quick phone call to your provider can help you lower your rates.7. Keep your freezer full
Did you know that your freezer operates more efficiently when it’s full? This is because the cold items help to keep each other cool. If you don’t have enough food to fill the freezer, use ice to fill the extra space.8. Identify leaks and fix them
Fixing leaky faucets and pipes can save you hundreds of gallons of water every year.9. Close closet doors
There’s no need to heat and cool your closets! Keep these doors shut to save money.10. Make a household budget
Making a budget is an effective way to help you keep your finances organized and identify hidden costs. Make separate line items for groceries, utilities, mortgage payments, and all of your other monthly bills. PRO TIP: Programs like Microsoft Excel offer a variety of template options for home budgets.11. Make your own cleaners
Cleaning products can be surprisingly expensive! Use common household ingredients such as vinegar, baking soda and lemons to create your own eco-friendly cleaners.12. Change your air filters
When the filters are dirty in your HVAC system or air purifier, the fans have to work harder to push the air, which draws more energy. Consider changing your filters every other month, especially if you live in a high-pollen area or have pets.13. Use cloth napkins and dish towels
Constantly buying paper products adds up! Use non disposable kitchen towels and napkins to help you cut back on costs and reduce your carbon footprint.14. Replace your lightbulbs with LED bulbs
Although they cost more upfront, LED bulbs will ultimately last longer and operate more efficiently than their incandescent predecessors.15. Bundle your home and auto insurance
Most insurance companies offer a discount for bundling home and auto policies. Having all of your policies with one insurer can also save you time and energy.Having affordable home insurance can go a long way towards supporting your financial wellness. Click on the button below to find an agent near you and explore your home insurance options:
