Summer Savings: Practical Tips for Cutting Costs
Summer is a season to unwind, enjoy the sunshine, and spend quality time with loved ones. However, it may be your most expensive season as you might spend more than usual on additional summer activities, vacations, increased electricity bills, and other expenses. To help you enjoy the warm months without overspending, here are some practical tips to save money while still enjoying all the season has to offer.
1. Reduce Your Entertainment Budget
Summertime fun can get costly. Thankfully, there are plenty of summertime activities you may take part in without going over budget. Take advantage of free events such as outdoor concerts, festivals, community fairs, and movie evenings on the lawn. Check your local city event calendar or websites like Eventbrite to know what is happening near you.
You can also take advantage of free streaming services or check out free DVDs from the public library to avoid going over budget at the movies.
Further, Instead of eating out, make dinner for your pals at home and divide the bill.
2. Purchase a Programmable Thermostat
Use a smart programmable thermostat. For example, there is no reason to set the thermostat to 65 degrees if everyone works or goes to school during the day. You can reset it to a lower temperature. Additionally, you can use mobile phones to adjust the internal temperature or alter the timetable to accommodate your needs. When used correctly, it can result in significant utility cost savings.
3. Leave the Windows Open at Night.
It might be worth turning off the air conditioning for the evening and opening the windows once the sun sets and the temperature starts to drop. The cooler air will push upward and displace the warmer air as it enters the house at night. As a result, to keep your house cool, open the windows on the first and second floors and let fresh air in. Just remember to close them when the temperature rises.
4. Switch to Energy Saving Bulbs
If you still use incandescent light bulbs from the past, you might want to think about switching to LED ones. In terms of converting electricity into light rather than heat, LED bulbs are up to 90% more efficient than incandescent bulbs. You remove a source of heat from your house while also conserving electricity.
5. Caulk and Seal your Windows and Doors
The cold air you create with your expensive power may escape if your windows are not closed properly and there are other leaks throughout your home. Use weather stripping around doors and caulk the spaces between windows. You can reduce your energy bills by trapping the cool air inside.
6. Close Your Shades and Drapes During the Day
The hotter parts of the day are when it is crucial to close the curtains and shades. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, 76% of the sunlight that enters your room through ordinary double-pane windows turns into heat, so your air conditioning equipment has to work harder to keep up.
7. Turn up Your AC a Few Degrees:
One proven approach to reduce your AC expense is to turn the thermostat up a little. According to some experts, a homeowner may save as much as two to three percent on their energy bill if they turn up the temperature by two to three degrees. Estimates vary.
The explanation for why turning up the thermostat reduces costs is straightforward: a higher thermostat setting requires less effort from the unit to maintain the indoor air quality within the house, resulting in less energy used.
8. Use Cold Water to Wash Your Clothes
Heating water during a washing load accounts for about 75% of energy used up. Even without hot water, you can clean your clothes thoroughly. In addition to saving money, using cold water extends the life of your clothing by not placing as much stress on them as warm water does.
9. Cook Outside
Steer clear of cooking inside during the months when the house needs the air conditioner to keep you comfortable. When you bake brownies in the oven, the whole house gets warm, and the steam from a large pasta pot of boiling water may make everything feel sticky. In these situations, the air conditioner will run more frequently than it should since the thermostat will believe the temperature is higher than it is.
So, try other fantastic ways to prepare food, such as utilizing your InstantPot, slow cooker, outdoor barbecue, and more. It will help you save money as you do not have to turn down the AC when the oven heats your home.
9. Be a Savvy Shopper
When it comes to summer shopping, look out for sales and discounts. Stock up on summer essentials like sunscreen, swimsuits, and outdoor gear during the sales events. Do not forget to use coupons and cashback apps to maximize your savings. Thrift stores and online marketplaces are also great places to find gently used items at a fraction of the cost.
10. Grow Your Garden
Starting a garden can be a rewarding and cost-effective way to enjoy fresh produce throughout the summer. Even if you have limited space, container gardening can yield a surprising amount of fruits, vegetables, and herbs. Planting a garden is a fun and healthful outdoor activity that also helps you save money on groceries.
11. Enjoy the Great Outdoors for Free
Visit the local beaches, parks, and hiking trails to enjoy the natural beauty surrounding you. Many outdoor activities, such as picnicking, swimming, and hiking, are free and provide endless entertainment for all ages. Check your local parks and recreation department for free events like guided nature walks or outdoor fitness classes.
12. Plan a Staycation
One way to save money on your summer vacation is to enjoy a staycation. A staycation is when you take a trip to places in and around your hometown that you would not usually visit. To plan a staycation, compile a list of the most well-liked tourist attractions in your community, consider the locations you have always wanted to go and browse the internet for inspiration. You will save money on travel-related expenses like hotel and flights. It is an excellent way to get around your community and save costs on your summer vacation.
13. Plan Budget-Friendly Vacations
If you have decided on taking a vacation, plan it on a budget. Look for deals on travel websites, consider traveling during off-peak times, and book accommodations through platforms like Airbnb or VRBO. Camping is another affordable option that offers a great way to connect with nature.
In conclusion
Implementing simple cost-cutting measures during the summer helps you save money and encourages a more sustainable and mindful approach to spending. Ultimately, they pave the way for financial stability and peace of mind, allowing you to savor the warm months without the stress of overspending.
Remember, that over a period, little changes might result in savings. Our debt relief specialists can assist you in identifying a route to financial stability if you’re facing monetary challenges. Contact us today to learn more.