
Summer Saving Tips for Homeowners
Spring has been a little wetter than usual this year, and people across the country are ready for the warmth of summer. Between vacations and childcare, though, summer can also get expensive. Owning a home is a smart investment, as is renting a property, but they can also both cost you a lot if you don’t attend to all aspects of their upkeep. Enjoy your summer and save some cash with these summer saving tips.
How to Save Money This Summer
Most homeowners know how to do basic upkeep to protect their home and prevent unnecessary expenses down the road. Spending a little money in the beginning may prevent you from having to spend too much money later.
Check-off the following to-do list before the summer is in full swing.
● Schedule an outdoor summer inspection. Whether you know enough to do a check-up yourself or you hire a professional, performing a summer property inspection can help you see any big problems before they happen. One of our professionals can examine outdoor plumbing and HVAC units, but having someone check the roof, gutters, and exterior windows is also a smart idea.
● Install a smart thermostat. Investing in smart technology is a great way to save some dollars. A smart thermostat lets you control the temperature of your house wherever you are. Turn the A/C up a little so the house is warmer while you’re away or prevent your mother-in-law from cranking it when she visits – all from your smartphone.
● Keep the temps consistent. This is easy to do with a smart thermostat. You can even put a lock on the temp to keep your teen from revving up the system when they come in from soccer practice. Changing the temp dramatically on the system doesn’t change how fast the house will cool down. Keeping the temps at a consistent temperature also prevents the unit from unnecessarily overworking.
● Inspect the water heater. The water heater is an appliance no one thinks too much about until the basement floods. Take a look at when your water heater was installed and if there is anything that seems problematic. If your unit is over five years old, ask a professional to give it a look during an annual inspection.
● Change your system’s air filter. Air filters should be changed every three months, depending on your system. If it’s an older system, it may have to work harder to keep your home cool, so changing the air filter more often will help its longevity.
Keep More Change in Your Pocket by Calling a Pro
Saving money and protecting your home go hand-in-hand. While many homeowners can do basic maintenance, calling a professional is one of the most cost-effective of all the money saving tips on this list. Some DIYers trust their Googling skills for home repair, but that can actually be a more expensive way to protect your investment – one missed problem and you could be out thousands of dollars. Schedule an appointment with one of our team. A certified HVAC professional will inspect the entire system, checking refrigerant levels, electrical wiring, and all the connectors.