21 Money-Saving Secrets Every Homeowner Should Know (Guide)

Hey there, homeowners! It’s time to dive into saving money around your home. Owning a place comes with its fair share of expenses, but don’t sweat it.

Here’s the good news: there are plenty of ways to save money as a homeowner.

🍋 Embrace Nature’s Powerful Cleaner
🏠 Refinance Your Mortgage at a Lower Rate
🧊 Smooth Out Pesky Carpet ‘Dents’
🛋️ Make Furniture Shopping More Rewarding
🌊 Refresh Your Microwave
💡 Combat High Energy Bills
🥤 Discover the Magic of Coca-Cola
🌀 And more…

We have many strategies to cut costs, from your living room to your lawn. So, grab your notepad, and let’s unlock the potential of your home to save you money!

1. Embrace Nature’s Powerful Cleaner

As a homeowner, I always look for ways to save money and keep my house clean without using expensive products. That’s why I’ve embraced nature’s powerful cleaner: vinegar.

Vinegar is a versatile and effective cleaning solution that can tackle a range of household messes. It can work miracles on even the toughest grime and grease when paired with baking soda. Plus, it’s all-natural and non-toxic, making it a safe and eco-friendly choice for any DIY cleaner.

One of my favorite ways to use vinegar is as a scrubber for my shower and bathroom tiles. Mix equal vinegar and water in a spray bottle, then spritz it on my shower walls and tub.

After letting it sit for a few minutes, I use a scrub brush to work away any grime or soap scum. The vinegar helps break down the dirt and leaves my bathroom smelling fresh and clean.

2. Refinance Your Mortgage at a Lower Rate

If you’re a homeowner, you know that your mortgage is probably one of your biggest monthly expenses. That’s why ensuring you get the best possible interest rate on your loan is important.

I’ve seen homeowners save thousands of dollars by refinancing their mortgages. By getting a lower interest rate, you can reduce your monthly payment and save money over the life of your loan. Plus, if you have a high-interest credit card debt, you can use the money you save to pay it down faster.

You’ll need to shop around and compare rates from different lenders to get started. You can also work with a mortgage broker who can help you find the best deals. Don’t hesitate to negotiate with lenders to get the best possible rate.

3. Smooth Out Pesky Carpet ‘Dents’

As a homeowner, there’s nothing more frustrating than seeing those pesky carpet dents left behind by furniture. But don’t worry, I’ve got a few tricks up my sleeve to help smooth them out.

First is to use ice cubes to melt away those dents.

• Step 1: Place an ice cube in the center of the dent and wait for it to melt completely. If the dent is over a few inches wide, you may need to use two or more ice cubes.

• Step 2: Once the ice has melted, use a fork or the edge of a credit card to lift the carpet fibers back into place gently.

If you’re in a hurry and don’t have time to wait for the ice to melt, there is another way – try using a vacuum cleaner to lift the fibers.

• Step 1: Dampen a cloth or towel and lay it over the dent. This bit is key – the moisture protects your carpet from direct heat, which can be too harsh.

• Step 2: Now, set your iron to a medium heat setting (you don’t want it too hot) and gently press it over the damp cloth. The steam from this process helps the fibers to relax and swell up.

4. Make Furniture Shopping More Rewarding

When it comes to furniture shopping, there are a few tricks that I’ve learned over the years that can help you save money while still getting the pieces you need to make your house feel like a home. Here are some of my favorite tips:

First, consider buying furniture that is already assembled. While flat-pack or self-assembly furniture can be more affordable, it can also be time-consuming and frustrating to put together.

Another tip is to look for coupons and promo codes. Many online retailers offer promotional codes or coupons for additional discounts. A quick search online can often turn up great deals that save you a lot of money.

If you want to buy furniture on credit, choose a credit card with a low-interest rate. This will help you save money over time, especially if you plan to make large purchases. But be careful not to overspend and get into debt.

Finally, set a budget for your furniture purchases and stick to it. It can be tempting to splurge on that beautiful sofa or dining table, but it’s important to remember that you need to live within your means.

5. Refresh Your Microwave

I was surprised to learn that regular maintenance can help extend the lifespan of my microwave. Over time, dirt, grease, and food particles can accumulate inside the appliance, which can cause it to malfunction or break down.

Luckily, there are some easy steps homeowners can take to keep their microwaves functioning at their best. One of the simplest and most effective ways to keep your microwave clean is to use baking soda.

• Step 1: Mix a few tablespoons of baking soda with water to paste.
• Step 2: Put the paste inside the microwave for 2-3 minutes.

• Step 3: Let the paste sit for a few minutes, then wipe it away with a damp cloth.

Another easy way to keep your microwave in good working order is to perform regular DIY maintenance. This can include cleaning the appliance’s exterior, checking for any signs of damage or wear and tear, and ensuring that the door and hinges function properly.

6. Combat High Energy Bills

As a homeowner, I know how frustrating receiving a high energy bill can be. However, several tricks I’ve learned can help you save money on your electric bill.

One of the most effective ways to save money on your energy bill is by upgrading to energy-efficient appliances.

These appliances use less electricity, which can significantly reduce your energy bills. Look for appliances with the ENERGY STAR label, which indicates that they meet strict energy efficiency guidelines set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

7. Discover the Magic of Coca-Cola

As a homeowner, you might be surprised to learn that Coca-Cola can be more than just a refreshing drink. It turns out that this popular beverage can also be used as a cleaning agent around the house!

One of the most popular uses for Coca-Cola is to remove stubborn stains from clothing. The carbonation and acidity of the drink work together to break down tough stains, making it a great alternative to expensive stain removers.

But that’s not all! Coca-Cola can also be used to clean various surfaces around your home. For example, if you have a porcelain toilet bowl that won’t come clean, try pouring a can of Coke into the bowl and letting it sit for an hour or two. The acid in the drink will help break down any stains or discoloration, leaving your toilet bowl looking like new.

In addition to toilets, Coca-Cola can also be used to clean other bathroom fixtures like showerheads and faucets. Soak the fixtures in a bowl of Coke for an hour or two, then rinse them off with water. The acid in the drink will help remove any buildup or grime, leaving your fixtures shiny and new.

One word of caution: because Coca-Cola is a sugary drink, it can attract ants and other pests if left out in the open. Clean up any spills or drips promptly to avoid attracting unwanted visitors.

8. Put Your Extra Space to Work

As a homeowner, you probably have some extra space in your house that you’re not using to its full potential. But did you know you could turn that space into a source of income? That’s right, you can rent out your space to make some extra cash.

One option is to rent out a spare room on Airbnb. This is a great way to make some extra money, especially if you live in a popular tourist destination. You can set your own rates and choose when to rent your space. Plus, you get to meet new people from all over the world.

Another option is to rent out your garage or storage space. Many people are looking for a place to store their extra belongings and are willing to pay for it.

If you have a backyard, you can also rent it out for events or as a parking space. You can even rent out your driveway as a parking spot during big events in your city.

9. Go Power-Stripping

I’m sure you’ve heard about power strips before, but have you ever considered how they can save you money on your electric bill? Using power strips is one of my favorite money-saving secrets, and it’s easy to implement.

By plugging your electronics into a power strip and turning the strip off when you’re not using the devices, you can prevent phantom power from draining your wallet.

But not all power strips are created equal. Look for power strips with an “auto-off” feature, which automatically turns off the strip when it’s not in use. Some power strips even have a “master” outlet that will turn off all the other outlets when the main device is turned off.

10. Turn Down Your Water Heater

I have a tip that can save you money on your water bill. Did you know you can save money monthly by turning down your water heater? It’s true!

Most water heaters are set to 140 degrees Fahrenheit by default, but you can turn it down to 120 degrees Fahrenheit without noticing a difference in your daily routine. Doing this can save up to 10% on your water heating costs.

Not only will you save money on your water bill, but you’ll also extend the life of your water heater. When your water heater is constantly running at a high temperature, it can cause wear and tear on the unit, leading to costly repairs or replacements.

11. Automate Your Thermostat or Use a Post-It Note

As a homeowner, one of the most effective ways to save money on your electric bill is to automate your thermostat or use a post-it note.

In my experience, manually adjusting the thermostat can be a hassle and lead to unnecessary energy consumption. I recommend investing in a smart thermostat that can automate your process.

Smart thermostats are designed to learn your preferences and adjust the temperature accordingly. For example, if you like your home cooler at night, the thermostat will automatically lower your temperature. This can save you money on your electric bill while ensuring that your home is always at a comfortable temperature.

If you’re not ready to invest in a smart thermostat, using a post-it note can also be an effective way to save money. Write down the temperature you want your home to be and stick it on the thermostat. This will serve as a reminder to adjust the temperature when necessary.

12. Give Your Air Conditioner Some Fresh Air

As a homeowner, I know how important keeping my air conditioning unit running smoothly is. Not only does it keep my home cool and comfortable, but it can also save me money on my energy bills. That’s why I always give my air conditioner some fresh air.

What do I mean by fresh air? Well, it’s simple. Your air conditioner needs to be able to breathe to work efficiently. If it’s surrounded by clutter or debris, it won’t be able to circulate air properly. That means it will have to work harder to cool your home, which can lead to higher energy bills.

So, how can you give your air conditioner some fresh air? Here are some tips:

• Clear away any debris or clutter around your outdoor unit. This includes leaves, branches, and other debris that may have accumulated over time.
• Trim back any bushes or shrubs that may be blocking the airflow to your unit. You want to ensure at least two feet of clearance around the unit.
• Clean your unit’s air filter regularly. A dirty filter can restrict airflow and reduce your unit’s efficiency.
• Consider planting shade trees around your unit. This can help keep it cool and reduce the work it must do to cool your home.

13. Block Out the Sun

As a homeowner, I know how important saving money on energy bills is. One of the easiest ways to do this is by blocking out the sun.

By using curtains, blinds, or shades, you can reduce the amount of sunlight that enters your home, which can help keep your home cooler and reduce the need for air conditioning.

Not only will blocking out the sun help you save money on your energy bills, but it can also help protect your furniture and other belongings from fading due to sun damage. Plus, it can provide you with more privacy and security.

Consider the color and thickness of the window treatments. Lighter colors and thinner materials will allow more sunlight to enter your home, while darker and thicker materials will block out more sunlight. Choose the option that works best for your needs and preferences.

Finally, close your curtains, blinds, or shades during the hottest parts of the day. This will help keep your home cooler and reduce the need for air conditioning. And don’t forget to open them back up in the evening to let in some fresh air and natural light.

14. Use Fans

I cannot stress enough how much a game-changer ceiling fan can be. Not only do they keep the air circulating, but they also help regulate the temperature in your home.

Set your ceiling fan to spin counterclockwise during the warmer months to create a cool breeze. In the colder months, set it to spin clockwise to push warm air back down into the room. This simple trick can help you save a ton on your electric bill.

If you don’t have a ceiling fan, don’t worry. You can still reap the benefits of a fan by using a portable one. Place it strategically in the room to create a cross-breeze and cool down the space.

Not only will this help you save money on your electric bill, but it will also make your home more comfortable.

15. Shower Power

I’m always looking for ways to save money on my water bill, and one of the easiest ways to do that is by cutting down on my shower time. I used to take long, hot showers daily, but I realized I was wasting water and money.

Now, I try to keep my showers short and sweet. I set a five-minute timer and try to finish before it goes off. Not only does this save me money on my water bill, but it also helps me get ready faster in the morning.

Another way to save money in the shower is by installing a low-flow showerhead. These showerheads use less water than traditional ones, which can add up to big savings over time. Plus, they still provide a great shower experience so you won’t notice the difference.

If you feel extra eco-friendly, try turning off the water while lathering with soap or shampoo. This can save a significant amount of water and money over time.

16. Replace Air Filters

As a homeowner, I know that maintaining your HVAC system can be a daunting task. But trust me, it’s worth it!

One simple and effective way to save money on your energy bills is to replace your air filters regularly. Dirty air filters restrict airflow, reduce indoor air quality, and put undue strain on your HVAC equipment, causing it to work harder and increasing energy costs.

Replacing air filters is a simple and cost-effective DIY task for any homeowner.

All you need to do is locate the filter, remove it, and replace it with a new one. Make sure to purchase the correct size and type of filter for your system. You can find this information in your HVAC system’s manual or by contacting a professional.

18. Hang Out Your Laundry

I always try to find ways to save money on my energy bills, and one of the easiest ways I’ve found is by hanging out my laundry. Not only does it save me money, but it’s also better for the environment.

When you use a clothes dryer, it uses a lot of energy to heat up and dry your clothes. By hanging out your laundry, you’re not using any electricity! The sun and wind are natural disinfectants that help remove bacteria or odors from your clothes.

If you’re worried about your clothes feeling stiff or scratchy after hanging them out to dry, don’t be! You can do a few things to make sure your clothes come out feeling soft and fresh.

• Use a fabric softener: Add a bit to your wash cycle to help keep your clothes feeling soft and smelling great.
• Shake out your clothes: Once dry, give them a good shake to help remove any stiffness.
• Use vinegar: Add a cup of white vinegar to your rinse cycle to help remove any soap residue and keep your clothes feeling soft.

Another great thing about hanging out your laundry is that it allows you to enjoy the outdoors. Take a few minutes to breathe in the fresh air and soak up some vitamin D while you hang out your clothes.

19. A Bright Idea?

Plenty of tips and tricks exist for saving money on your electric bill. But have you ever considered the impact your light bulbs might be having?

Switching to energy-efficient light bulbs can be a game-changer when lowering your electric bill. Not only do they use less energy, but they also last longer than traditional bulbs. I made the switch in my own home, and it’s made a noticeable difference in my monthly bills.

But don’t just take my word for it. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, replacing your home’s five most frequently used light fixtures or bulbs with energy-efficient ones can save you up to $75 per year. That’s not chump change!

20. Grilled to Perfection

I love to grill. It’s one of my favorite ways to cook food, especially during summer. But did you know that grilling can also save you money? That’s right, by using your grill instead of your oven or stovetop, you can save on your energy bill.

When you use your oven or stovetop, you use electricity or gas to power the appliance and heat up your home. This means that your air conditioner has to work harder to keep your home cool, which can lead to higher energy bills.

But when you grill outside, you’re not adding extra heat to your home, so your air conditioner doesn’t have to work as hard.

21. Fix Leaky Windows

As a homeowner, dealing with leaky windows is one of the most frustrating things. Not only do they let in drafts, but they can also cause your energy bills to skyrocket.

Luckily, there are some simple DIY solutions to fix leaky windows and save you money in the long run.

First, check for any visible gaps or cracks around the window frame. These can be easily filled with caulk to prevent air from seeping through. A foam backer rod fills the space before applying caulk for larger gaps. This will ensure a more secure seal.

Another common problem with leaky windows is worn or damaged weatherstripping. This can be easily replaced with a new adhesive-backed foam or rubber strip. Remove the old weatherstripping and clean the surface before applying the new strip.

If your windows still leak after trying these solutions, consider installing storm windows or using window insulation film. Storm windows are a second layer that can be installed over your existing ones for added insulation.

Child Proof Your Outlets – Even if You Don’t Have Kids

As a homeowner, keeping your home safe for everyone who enters it is important. That includes protecting curious children from electrical hazards. But did you know that childproofing your outlets can also save you money?

Tamper-resistant outlets are a great option for preventing electrical accidents. They have built-in shutters that prevent foreign objects from being inserted into the outlet. This makes them a must-have for homes with young children. But tamper-resistant outlets can still benefit you even if you don’t have kids.

For one, they can help you save on your homeowner’s insurance. Many insurance companies offer discounts for homes that have tamper-resistant outlets installed. This is because they are less likely to cause electrical fires. So not only will you be protecting your loved ones, but you’ll also be saving money in the long run.

Installing outlet covers is another way to save money on your electrical bill. These covers can help prevent drafts and keep your home insulated. This means your heating and cooling systems won’t have to work as hard to maintain a comfortable temperature. And the less your systems have to work, the less money you’ll have to spend on your energy bill.

Cost-Saving Breakdown: A Homeowner’s Guide to Keeping More Cash in Your Pocket

Let’s dive into the heart of the matter: the actual savings. I’ve laid out a straightforward table detailing each money-saving tip with an estimate of how much you could pocket annually.

This isn’t just about pinching pennies; it’s about smart, sustainable living that benefits your bank account and your home’s health. Let’s break down these numbers and see how much you can save.

Homeowner Tip	Estimated Annual Savings
Vinegar as a Cleaner	$50 – $100
Refinancing Your Mortgage	$1,200 – $3,600
Removing Carpet Dents with Ice Cubes	Varies (Long-term savings)
Smart Furniture Shopping	10-20% of purchase cost
Microwave Maintenance with Baking Soda	$100 – $200
Energy-Efficient Appliances	$100 – $400
Cleaning with Coca-Cola	$20 – $30
Renting Out Extra Space	$6,000 – $12,000
Power-Stripping to Save Energy	$60 – $120
Lowering the Water Heater Temperature	$12 – $60
Automating Your Thermostat	$50 – $150
Proper Air Conditioner Maintenance	$60 – $120
Sun-Blocking Window Treatments	$100 – $250
Using Ceiling and Portable Fans	$15 – $50
Shorter Showers & Low-Flow Showerheads	$70 – $100
Replacing Air Filters Regularly	$50 – $150
Air-Drying Laundry	$50 – $100
Energy-Efficient Light Bulbs	$75
Grilling Over Indoor Cooking	$30 – $60
Fixing Leaky Windows	$100 – $200
Childproofing Outlets for Energy Efficiency	$20 – $30
Lowering Thermostat	$20 – $75

Regular Maintenance: Your Key to Long-Term Savings

Alright, folks, let’s roll up our sleeves and discuss something crucial – regular maintenance. Trust me, it’s more than just a chore; it’s an investment in your home’s future.

• HVAC System: Your Comfort Keeper – Your HVAC system, for example, works tirelessly to keep you comfy. Neglecting it can lead to inefficient operation and, eventually, costly repairs. Regular filter changes and seasonal inspections keep it running smoothly and efficiently, saving you from unexpected and expensive breakdowns.
• Plumbing: The Lifeline of Your Home – Plumbing is another area where routine checks can prevent disasters. A small leak under the sink might not seem like much, but it can lead to major water damage and a hefty repair bill over time. Regular checks can nip these issues in the bud.
• Roof and Gutters: Your First Line of Defense – Your roof and gutters are your home’s first defense against the elements. Keeping them in good shape can prevent water damage and improve energy efficiency. Annual inspections and cleaning out those gutters can save you a headache.
• The Power of Paint – Don’t underestimate the power of paint. Regularly painting and sealing exposed woodwork, like window frames and decks, can prevent rot and extend their life. It’s a simple task that can save you big bucks in the long run.
• Keep it Clean – Lastly, cleanliness goes a long way. Regular cleaning prevents the build-up of harmful substances and extends the life of surfaces and appliances. Plus, it keeps your home looking and feeling great.

References

Organizations:

• ENERGY STAR. https://www.energystar.gov/
• U.S. Department of Energy. https://www.energy.gov/
• National Association of Home Builders (NAHB). https://www.nahb.org/

Books:

• “Home Maintenance for Dummies” by James Carey and Morris Carey. https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/home-maintenance-for-dummies-james-carey/1016375971
• “The Complete Guide to Eco-Friendly House Cleaning” by Anne Kocsis. https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/complete-guide-to-eco-friendly-house-cleaning-anne-kocsis/1100168499

Website Resources:

• This Old House. https://www.thisoldhouse.com/
• The Spruce. https://www.thespruce.com/
• Houzz. https://www.houzz.com/

Video References:

Focus on Energy

Consumer Buddy

Hisense

ENERGY STAR

HomeAdvisor

The Stain Guide