Four Low-Cost Home Improvements That Save You Money
March 22, 2019
When pondering about home improvement projects, most people assume that it’s tens of thousands of dollars’ worth of investments. And while this can be the case, of course, such as window or roof replacements, solar panels, etc., some projects are quite affordable. What’s more, some of these low-cost home improvement projects can save you hundreds, if not, thousands of dollars over the mid- to long-term. That said, here are some examples that will end up paying for themselves, and then some.
A Programmable Thermostat
On average across the country, the most considerable monthly expense comes in the form of heating and cooling bills. It makes up about half of all utility bills. Programmable thermostats allow you to set a daily and weekly schedule and choose fluctuating temperatures at different times. Once programmed, the device will do everything. More sophisticated models also allow you to access and control them remotely from your phone or adapt them to things like the local precipitation or humidity levels.
A programmable thermostat can save you 20%, or more on your energy bills. They do so by helping your HVAC system run more efficiently without you having to compromise on comfort. So, if your yearly energy bill is around $2,000, you can save anywhere of 3-4 hundred dollars with such a thermostat. It far exceeds the amount you will pay for the device.
Low-Flow Plumbing Fixtures
Low-flow fixtures such as toilets, faucet aerators, shower heads, etc., can provide you with significant savings. Thanks to their technology and mechanisms, they provide you with similar results as traditional models but use only a fraction of the water.
Statistics show that a four-member household fitted with low-flow toilets can save more than 20,000 gallons of water per year. It means that it will pay for itself in about three years, while some models also help reduce various clogging problems.
Energy-Efficient Light Bulbs
Let us focus on light bulbs. Did you know that 90% of the energy consumed by traditional light bulbs is given off as heat, instead of light? That’s a lot of wasted energy, and the same is about what you pay for lighting.
There are several types of energy-efficient light bulbs available on the market, but probably the most efficient are LEDs. They only use 20 to 25% of the energy of traditional bulbs and last 15 to 25 times longer. By merely replacing five of the most frequently used bulbs with LEDs, you will save over $45 per year in lighting costs.
Weather-stripping Air Leaks
If you live in an old home or one that’s notorious for its many drafts, you’ll be surprised to find out that weather-stripping your doors, windows, or other air leaks can save you up to 20% in heating and cooling costs.
Weather-stripping materials come in various shapes and sizes, and it’s best to inform yourself about which work best where so that they can better withstand the friction, weather, temperature changes, and wear and tear associated with their location and use.
If you are going to make some home improvements in the future, you might as well choose the ones that will end up saving you money. We trust that some of the examples presented here are enough to inspire you to become more self-sufficient and less dependable on so many resources.
If you want to get started on these home improvement projects, Illinois Lending is at your service. Apply now for a loan, and you’ll see how your bills will shrink with every new energy-efficient project you undertake.