This post was written by Pat Lee. Frank Viola did not write it.
As the end of the year draws near, many of us find ourselves spending more than we intended to on Christmas presents, food, drink and travel. The new year is often a time to start budgeting.
To make the festive season a little easier, we’ve come up with a list of ways for you and your family to save money around the house. Read on for some helpful tips that you can start putting into practice immediately.
Check Your Bills
Whether it’s gas, electricity, internet or phone it’s always a good idea to check you are getting the best rate available. It’s worth calling your energy supplier at least once a year to discuss your usage, or do a search with an online comparison site to check that you are getting the best deal. Similarly, check your data and talk plan for your mobile phone to see whether you are paying more than what you need. If so, you can switch to a plan with less data and minutes thereby reducing your monthly payments.
Alternatively, if you have been with your mobile phone service provider for some time they may continue to offer you more than you need but at a lower price. It doesn’t hurt to ask and they are more likely to accommodate your request if you have been a loyal and long-standing customer.
Save Energy
By reducing your household energy consumption you can also reduce your monthly bill. Some useful ways to save energy include:
- Use energy-saving light bulbs and switch off any unnecessary lights
- Fully load the dishwasher and washing machine before use
- Turn down your thermostat
- Unplug unused electrical devices and turn appliances off standby mode
- Take a shower instead of a bath
- Draught-proof your doors and windows
Coupons, Vouchers and Discounts
When doing your weekly grocery shop keep a lookout for any discounts or offers that are available on the staple products that you buy. For example, a dishwasher liquid could be priced at ‘two-for-one’ or ‘buy one, get one free.’ Instead of buying your usual brand, why not opt for the one that is on offer as you will likely save money in the long run?
Many supermarkets also offer loyalty schemes to their customers. If you find that your shop regularly at a particular store takes advantage of their loyalty program and you will find not only are you saving points but you may also be rewarded with regular coupons on food and drink.
Couponing can save you a lot of money, especially when it is for the products that you need and have to buy regularly.
Eat in More
Whether it’s ordering in or dining out, when you add up the cost over a month, mealtimes can become expensive.
Not only will cooking give you a chance to cook healthy and nutritious meals for your family but it also allows you to plan your meals and buy your groceries accordingly. Studies show that the average American household wastes 31.9% of its food or $1,866 per household. With a list of the ingredients you need you are less likely to purchase items that you won’t eat.
With these four tips you will soon be doing your bit for the planet as well as for your bank account.
This post was written by Pat Lee. Frank Viola did not write it.
Ad-Free & Subscriber Log-In