Guest Blogger: 6 of the Best Home Improvements that Save Money Too!

Guest Blogger #345, Entry #918, January 24, 2012

There are home improvements you can make that will actually save you money over time. They can make your home more enjoyable and more energy efficient at the same time. From adding insulation to changing out an appliance, here are some basic home improvement projects that will truly improve your home.

How great is this pullout sink?

1. Tankless Water Heater

The initial cost of a tankless water heater is high, prompting many people to select the traditional water tank instead. However, a tankless water heater has many benefits. The first is that you will never run out of hot water again. The second is that you will save a small fortune on the utility bills since you will only heat water when it’s needed. Rather than keeping a massive tank of water hot and ready to go, the fuel to heat it will only be expended when it’s actually needed.

2. New Windows and Doors

Homes that are older may have charm, but they don’t have good insulation. If you can feel a draft around your windows, consider making the investment in new ones. Your home will not only stay warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer, but your utility bills will drop drastically. It will also be an instant face-lift, making your home more attractive on the inside and the outside.

Windows and doors can save you money when replaced

3. New Appliances

A new dishwasher will look great and make kitchen clean up faster. Choose one that is energy efficient and you can also save money on the utility bills. Larger tubs and the elimination of center water poles mean that you can now fit more dishes than ever in these units, so you won’t have to run them as often. They also use less energy while running, allowing you to save even more money.

4. Insulation

It’s true that adding insulation to your home won’t change the appearance, but it will make your home more comfortable. There are a few key places you should look to see if you need more insulation. If you have an older home, start by removing a piece of trim from next to a window. Builders prior to the 1970s were notorious for not insulating around windows and doors. If this space is wide open, you can save a bundle by adding some insulation and then re-installing the trim. Look in the attic next. If areas of insulation are crushed down, add some insulation to this space. Take care not to insulate the soffits and close off the outside vents, as they are necessary for the airflow.

Upgrade your home lighting for future savings

5. Upgraded Lights

New ceiling lights feature LED options and low-voltage bulbs that can help you save money on the electric bill. While these lights promise lower bills, they also offer beautiful styles that can help transform any room in your home. Simply changing a dated light fixture can transform a bathroom from 1965 into a retro bathroom that is worthy of the 21st century.

6. Low-flow faucets

There have been countless stories on the benefits of water saving showerheads and toilets. You may not realize, however, that you can also purchase water saving faucets for the bathroom, kitchen and laundry room. These faucets are beautiful and elegant, yet they limit the flow of water and will help you reduce your water bill over time.

There are many projects you can tackle that will lower your utility expenses and help you save money. Some will give your home an instant face-lift while others will simply make your house more inviting and comfortable. When it’s time to make changes in your home, consider more than mere aesthetics.

For more home improvement ideas on Stagetecture, click here.