5 Ways for Chester County Home Owners to Save Money, Minimize Maintenance
1. Optimize your water heater.
Save more than $30 per year in excess heat loss and up to 10% in water heating costs with an insulated water heater jacket, available at Lowe’s for around $20. You can also start saving by simply turning the temperature down on your water heater. SOURCE: Money Magazine – January 2006
2. Replace a bath faucet.
Replacing a bath faucet yourself with a WaterSense®-certified model can save you up to $300 on the install, and up to 500 gallons of water a year. SOURCE: EPA – WaterSense, Money Magazine – August 2008
3. Buy your own repair materials.
Even if you can’t do your own repairs, buying your own parts and materials can save you up to 20% in markup fees. SOURCE: Money Magazine – August 2006
4. Routinely do a walking inspection.
Prevent expensive repairs by catching small problems before they turn into big issues. Look for holes, cracks, sags, soft spots and bulges in walls, check your plumbing and appliance hoses for leaks and inspect your home’s foundation for cracks that can be sealed. Taking the time to regularly monitor the state of your home will protect your investment in the long run and save time, money and peace of mind. If your appliance hose is leaking, purchase a new one at Lowe’s for just $20. SOURCE: Money Magazine – January 2006, August 2006
5. Take on “enhancement” projects.
Projects under $1,000 that you can do yourself to add value and get attention include: tile the entryway floor, paint the kitchen cabinets, install a clear glass shower door, update the dining-room light fixture, and install shelves in the living room. Purchase the necessary materials at Lowe’s starting at $50 and start adding value to your home. SOURCE: Money Magazine – February 2007
