Summer hasn’t officially started, but if you are serious about saving money this season, then now is the perfect time to get in gear.
Once you are done switching out your winter clothes for summer attire and getting your grill and patio furniture cleaned up for backyard barbeques, take some time to do a home energy audit. Experts recommend completing one at the start of the summer season in order to save hundreds or thousands of dollars on energy deficiencies. Many homeowners shy away from the process because a formal audit by a trained professional costs a few hundred dollars upfront. However, according to the U.S. Department of Energy, there are ways you can improve your home’s energy efficiency without having to break the bank.
For starters, take a look in your attic. By adding more insulation up there you can potentially save hundreds of dollars. In addition, insulating your hot water pipes, and sealing window leaks are other ways to save on your energy bills. Another simple solution when it comes to saving money around the house is to install compact fluorescent lamps (CFL). According to Energy Star, CFL bulbs use 75% less energy than normal bulbs, and they last 10 times as long. Granted, they cost more than regular bulbs, but you will get a return on your investment within 6 weeks. Your savings will vary depending on how many bulbs you replaces, but overall, experts say the average American you can look to pocket roughly $5 per month on his electric bill.
This summer, consider also taking time to vacuum the coils behind your refrigerator to ensure your refrigerator is running efficiently. You can also save money by letting the summer sun work for you. Hang your laundry outside on a clothesline instead of using an electric dryer. Finally, use a charcoal grill instead of firing up your oven to make summer meals.