on February 12, 2019
If you live in the frozen north like I do, you still have a good two months (if not more!) of winter ahead. Not only does that sound daunting to many people, it also sounds expensive. Cold weather can mean extra heating costs, failed car batteries, and replacing all that pricey winter gear when it inevitably wears out.
And the thing is, these tasks CANNOT wait. If your furnace conks out, you can’t put off replacing it for a few months while you build up your savings. It has to happen now. The same is true for that dead car battery or that lost pair of mittens.
With so much at stake during the cold winter months, it’s a good idea to save as much as possible in case, for example, your hot water heater decides to call it quits (Incidentally, it’s always a good idea to have a sizeable emergency fund. Read more about that in my past blog post).
So, how do you save your dollars when winter has a way of eating right through them? Start with these six money-saving tips:
1. Invest in a smart thermostat
A programmable thermostat, such as the ones made by Nest or Honeywell, can help you save money and energy at the same time. Set your thermostat to drop to the mid-50s when you’re away at work or sleeping, and climb back up to your preferred temperature when you’re up and around the house. It’s an easy way to save.
2. Change your furnace filter
It’s easy to forget to change that filter in your furnace, but it’s a great (and simple!) way to boost your furnace’s efficiency. Plus, it will help improve air quality.
3. Have fun hibernating!
Winter is the perfect time to stay home and reconnect with your family. Instead of going out to eat or heading to the movies, bundle up, cook dinner at home, and have a game night or at-home movie night. You may be surprised by how much you can save by simply dining at home.
4. Invest in an Energy Audit
Energy audits are usually inexpensive, and they’re a great way to pinpoint trouble spots in your home (leaky windows, cracks around your doors, lack of insulation, etc.). After the audit, make a plan for some upgrades this coming year, before the next winter season strikes!
5. Hit the Gym
Frequenting the gym during the winter months is a great idea for many reasons. Not only does exercise help elevate your mood, it also boosts your immune system, which can help you keep whatever is “going around” at bay. And, as we all know, getting sick can put a dent in the wallet (co-pays, meds, etc.) and can set us back in our work.
6. Prep for Next Winter
Because winter is well underway, one of the best things to think about is prepping for next winter. What home repairs and improvements will help you combat the cold next year? What winterizing did you neglect to do on your vehicle? What end-of-the-season sales can you hit this month to help you upgrade your winter wardrobe and outdoor gear? Finance is all about thinking ahead, and this is just one of the ways to do that!