Small Ways to Save Big Money

Here are a few easy ways to make little changes around your home that will turn into dollars in the long run.

1. Ask your power company to do a free energy audit on your home to help you find ways to cut waste (and costs). Remember to do this annually.

2. Lower the thermostat by two degrees and save an average of 25 kilowatt hours each month. This small change will add up over the months. If your home is vacant for a fixed time each day, a programmable thermostat may be a good investment for you.

3. Lower your water heater by ten degrees and save another 25 kilowatt hours per month. You won’t even notice the difference in water temperature.

4. Fix drafts with weatherstripping or even old tube socks filled with sand. Cover unused windows with plastic sheeting in the winter.

5. At the supermarket, use the idea of the farmer’s market to save: buy only fresh produce in season, you’ll spend less and eat better. Keep in mind that the highest markups are on the shelves at chest level. Reach up or down for cheaper house or generic brands.

6. Clip coupons. Hint: call the toll-free numbers on product labels and tell the rep how much you use the product. Some will offer coupons, be sure to ask if they do not offer.

7. Have a specific goal for the money you save, such as a trip, a college fund, or a car, and deposit your savings in this account regularly.

8. If you have a tough time holding a credit card for emergencies only, make it impossible to impulse shop by freezing it in a bowl of water in your icebox.