If you're not a Papa John's Papa Rewards Member yet, there's still time to register! With every online purchase you recieve points towards free pizza. Click HERE for details and to register.
Thursday, February 2, 2012
Possible FREE Pizza and Pepsi for Papa John's Papa Rewards Members
If you're not a Papa John's Papa Rewards Member yet, there's still time to register! With every online purchase you recieve points towards free pizza. Click HERE for details and to register.
Enter to Win a Trip for 2 to London from Kellogg's!
Enter to Win Trip for 4 to the Super Bowl in 2013
Just go to http://www.snackpicks.com/ to enter. They ask for a UPC number. If you do not have one, you can use: 11444 11444. Be warned, by entering you are also signing up to receive Snackpicks and Kellogg's newsletters. Game ends February 6, 2012.
25% off at Ruby Tuesday
$10 off $20 Purchase at Smokey Bones
Wednesday, February 1, 2012
Printable Coupon for $1 off 2 Mama Rosie's Products
Mama Rosie's frozen raviolis are an easy meal, and are usually $1.59, sometimes on sale for $1 per bag at Market Basket. Use THIS $1 off 2 coupon and you can get them for $0.50 each - half price! (Be sure to go back and print a 2nd coupon so you can get 4.) This is a money saver AND a time saver, and paired with the right sauce and maybe some garlic bread, a great meal for your family.
BOGO Free Ocean Spray Juice Coupon
"Like" Ocean Spray on Facebook and you'll be given a Buy One Get One Free Juice coupon to print. Coupon requires that you purchase any 64oz Ocean Spray Cranberry Juice Drink, and you can get one 64oz Ocean Spray Cherry Juice Drink Free!
Free Mac and Cheese at Target!
Visit Target's online printable coupons to print a coupon for $1 off Market Pantry Macaroni and Cheese. Go back and print a 2nd coupon, too. (You're only allowed 2 coupons per computer/printer, sorry!) Take these coupons to your local Target store and you'll end up with 2 free boxes of macaroni and cheese!
Free Onion Rings at Burger King!
If you liked the free fries they gave away a few months back, now you can try their onion rings! Burger King is offering FREE value size onion rings on February 4th and 5th. No coupon required. While supplies last, one per person per visit, at participating locations only.
Get 25% off with Web Wednesdays from Papa John's
Why wait until the weekend or a special occasion to order pizza? Order online at PapaJohns.com and use promo code WW25 to get 25% off all regular-priced menu items. This is your chance to make Wednesday special ~ and help everyone get over the hump of the week.
Free or Inexpensive Massage and Hair Treatments
If you're like me, you don't have a ton of money to throw around for luxuries like massages and hair treatments. I rarely go for a massage, and I cut and color my own hair at home. I enlist my mother-in-law to perm it, though. I don't dare do that on my own! Nothing beats free, (or $12 for the at-home perm kit instead of $80+ at a salon), but once in a while you need something done professionally - either because you need to be pampered, or because you need a fresh start.
My recommendation is to contact a massage or beauty school, depending on the services you are looking for. Many times they have students who need "practice hours" in order to graduate, and they need people to practice on. Usually these services are "free" because they are not licensed yet, but you will want to tip them for a job well done.
Sure, you may be thinking "I don't want someone working on me who doesn't know what they are doing". But think about this: most of their schooling is behind them, and the reason why they are practicing on real people is because they are almost ready to graduate. Not to mention, they haven't lost any of their knowledge yet, since they are still learning. Besides, they are "free" so what have you got to lose?
You might luck out like I did and find someone who is excellent. Unfortunately, Meg has since graduated and is charging full price for services now. Since she is a former co-worked and friend (and I do think she does a great job) I tend to stick with her, but my budget doesn't allow for regular visits.
If you have other suggestions and know of a great place to go, please share in the comments! If you are on a tight budget like I am, you might want to consider this option for free - almost free - massages and hair treatments.
My recommendation is to contact a massage or beauty school, depending on the services you are looking for. Many times they have students who need "practice hours" in order to graduate, and they need people to practice on. Usually these services are "free" because they are not licensed yet, but you will want to tip them for a job well done.
Sure, you may be thinking "I don't want someone working on me who doesn't know what they are doing". But think about this: most of their schooling is behind them, and the reason why they are practicing on real people is because they are almost ready to graduate. Not to mention, they haven't lost any of their knowledge yet, since they are still learning. Besides, they are "free" so what have you got to lose?
You might luck out like I did and find someone who is excellent. Unfortunately, Meg has since graduated and is charging full price for services now. Since she is a former co-worked and friend (and I do think she does a great job) I tend to stick with her, but my budget doesn't allow for regular visits.
If you have other suggestions and know of a great place to go, please share in the comments! If you are on a tight budget like I am, you might want to consider this option for free - almost free - massages and hair treatments.
Cash Back Websites and Online Coupon Codes Can Save You Money
What better way to save money than to use cash back websites and online coupon codes? And you can do it from the comfort of your home or office - anywhere you have access to a computer. No clipping required!
You can "earn" money by using cash back websites. Some of the best ones I know of are Ebates.com and ShopAtHome.com. I personally use ebates.com every time I shop online, and because I know some people swear by shopathome.com, I have recently signed up. Smart shoppers check both sites to see who will offer the most cash back for the particular retailer they will be shopping, then use that one. There are other cash back websites out there, but these are the ones I know to be legitimate and trustworthy.
How does it work? Well, you actually start at these websites instead of going directly to the retailer website. For instance, if you want to shop Walmart, you would first go to ebates.com and search for Walmart. They will then link you to the retailer website. Since you have signed into your ebates.com or shopathome.com account, it will track your purchases. Once you have made a purchase at the retailer website through one of these cash back websites, you will accumulate cash back. (Their records do not usually update immediately, but trust me, it will work.) It is usually a percentage of your purchase, and the percentage for each retailer is different and can change at any time. Even if you don't do alot of online shopping, you can still accumulate enough money through these websites to make it worth it. I am an example of that. On ebates.com you can request a check to be sent to you after earning as little as $5. Many times they offer double cash back and coupon codes you might not find elsewhere. Even printable coupons and local grocery coupons may be found on these sites!
Another, more common way to save money is through use of online coupon codes or promotional codes, which is a code you plug into the checkout phase of an online order. You can find online codes in many places, but my favorite, by far, is RetailMeNot.com. I have personally saved lots of money using this website! It's so easy ~ all you have to do is search for the retailer you want to buy from online. For instance, if you want to shop Walmart, you would first go to retailmenot.com and search for Walmart. Once you find the retailer, you will find a list of coupon codes available for that retailer. Read through the list and find one that applies to your order. You will not always find the retailer or a coupon for it, and even if you do there is no guarantee that the online coupon code you find will work, but it is most certainly worth the effort!
Whether you do alot of online shopping or just a little, I highly recommend signing up and saving money through cash back websites and searching for online coupon codes before you shop. These are some of the fastest and easiest ways to save money!
You can "earn" money by using cash back websites. Some of the best ones I know of are Ebates.com and ShopAtHome.com. I personally use ebates.com every time I shop online, and because I know some people swear by shopathome.com, I have recently signed up. Smart shoppers check both sites to see who will offer the most cash back for the particular retailer they will be shopping, then use that one. There are other cash back websites out there, but these are the ones I know to be legitimate and trustworthy.
How does it work? Well, you actually start at these websites instead of going directly to the retailer website. For instance, if you want to shop Walmart, you would first go to ebates.com and search for Walmart. They will then link you to the retailer website. Since you have signed into your ebates.com or shopathome.com account, it will track your purchases. Once you have made a purchase at the retailer website through one of these cash back websites, you will accumulate cash back. (Their records do not usually update immediately, but trust me, it will work.) It is usually a percentage of your purchase, and the percentage for each retailer is different and can change at any time. Even if you don't do alot of online shopping, you can still accumulate enough money through these websites to make it worth it. I am an example of that. On ebates.com you can request a check to be sent to you after earning as little as $5. Many times they offer double cash back and coupon codes you might not find elsewhere. Even printable coupons and local grocery coupons may be found on these sites!
Another, more common way to save money is through use of online coupon codes or promotional codes, which is a code you plug into the checkout phase of an online order. You can find online codes in many places, but my favorite, by far, is RetailMeNot.com. I have personally saved lots of money using this website! It's so easy ~ all you have to do is search for the retailer you want to buy from online. For instance, if you want to shop Walmart, you would first go to retailmenot.com and search for Walmart. Once you find the retailer, you will find a list of coupon codes available for that retailer. Read through the list and find one that applies to your order. You will not always find the retailer or a coupon for it, and even if you do there is no guarantee that the online coupon code you find will work, but it is most certainly worth the effort!
Whether you do alot of online shopping or just a little, I highly recommend signing up and saving money through cash back websites and searching for online coupon codes before you shop. These are some of the fastest and easiest ways to save money!
Staples Daily Deals + Free Shipping!
Staples is having daily deals + free shipping, all month long - you can save up to 50%! Below are the deals for the rest of this week. Although some deals are only available online or by phone, if you also shop in-store you can save more with their monthly in-store deals, and don't forget they take coupons!
Wednesday, Feb 1st Only
Scott Paper Towels, 15/case
Was $19.99, NOW $9.99 (You save 50%)
Valid online or by phone only.
Thursday, Feb 2nd Only
Dixie Perfect Touch Hot Cups, 12oz 50/pk
Was $7.99, NOW $3.99 (You save 50%)
Valid online or by phone only.
Friday, Feb 3rd Only
Lysol Toilet Bowl Cleaner
Was $3.99, NOW $1.99 (You save 50%) Limit 3 per customer.
Valid online or by phone only.
Monthly In-Store Deals for February:
Charmin Basic Bath Tissue, 16/case
Was $9.99, NOW $5.99
Kleenex Facial Tissues, 2/pk
Was $3.99, NOW $2.99
Now through 3/1/2012 - Free shipping on all cleaning and breakroom orders, no minimum. Fast and free shipping on all orders over $45. To start shopping, click HERE. That was easy!
New and Improved JC Penney Policies for Pricing, Returns, and Shipping
Red = everyday pricing
Blue = special month-long pricing
White = Best Pricing (1st and 3rd Friday's of every month)
Their new return policy is similar to Kohl's return policy - "Any item, anytime, anywhere."
Shipping is now always free to store. That is a great one, since around Christmas time I had stuff shipped to the store and I was shocked to have to pay for it. Might as well pay a couple dollars more and have it shipped to home.
Overall, it looks like they are definitely changing for the better and I am excited to see how it really turns out. When I can get a good deal I love to shop there for quality items I feel will last.
Tuesday, January 31, 2012
Your Chance to Win A Big TV and Lots of Food from WZID
WZID is giving you a chance to get set-up and ready for Sunday's Big Game! Hurry! Entries must be in by February 2nd at 11:59pm.
Prize includes:
• 1 – 46” Samsung LCD TV Series 5-550
• 1 – Coby 1,000-Watt 5.1-Channel Home Theater System with DVD/DivX Player
• 1 – $250 Hannaford Gift Card
Click HERE to enter.
Donate $1 and Get 5 Free Kid's Cones at Friendly's
Visit your local Friendly's and donate $1 to help kids with autism and other disabilities go to Easter Seals Camp Friendly's and they will give you a coupon book for 5 free kid's cones and valentines to give to your friends! Helping other people never tasted so good.
Kid's Eat Free at Uno's Chicago Grill
Every Tuesday is Family Day at Uno's. Bring the family to Uno's on Tuesdays for delicious food and fun. Kids love their Make Your Own Pizza, and you'll love that it's free!
Just one exception: since Tuesday, 2/14 is Valentine's Day, Family Day (Kid's Eat Free) has moved that Family Day to Wednesday, 2/15 that week.
Enter to Win Prizes from Dunkin' Donuts
Visit the Dunkin' Donuts Facebook Page to tell them why you drink Dunkin' and you may win one of their daily prizes: $100 DD gift card and a free personalized mug with your answer on it. You'll also automatically be entered for a chance to win the Grand Prize: you photo on their new digital billboard in Times Square, along with a weekend for you and 3 friends in NYC and free Dunkin' coffee for a year!
Your Chance to Win $5,000 from Wendy's!
Visit the Wendy Threads Design Studio on Facebook, use colors and graphics to create your own T-shirt, and you could win $5,000! If your T-shirt design is selected to become a real T-shirt, the proceeds will benefit the Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption - all thanks to you.
Entering Sweepstakes - What You Should Know Before You Enter
You should always stop and think before you enter any sweepstakes. Below we've outlined some tips for you to follow - ideas to decide if you should or shouldn't enter any particular sweepstakes.
Only enter sweepstakes from companies you are familiar with or someone you trust has referred you to (beware of unknown companies or companies you have barely heard of). You want to trust the company you will be working with, should you win. Think about it. If a company says you won a trip to Mexico, you want to know you can contact that company should anything go wrong. If you're in the middle of a foreign country and you were dropped off in the middle of nowhere, who will you contact if the one phone number you have for this company suddenly "is no longer in service"?
NEVER pay money to enter a sweepstakes or anytime before you receive the prize, even if they claim it is a "refundable" deposit. Some ask you to pay a fee before you receive the prize...this is almost definitely a scam, so don't get yourself caught. There are so many sweepstakes to enter that are free, paying for an entry just don't make sense.
"No Purchase Necessary"- It's the law! You are supposed to have an equal chance of winning, whether or not you order. According to the Direct Marketing Association, the US Postal Inspection Service, and Call for Action, Inc, "the law strictly prohibits these false representations in sweepstakes
promotions:
Read the rules ~ be sure to read and understand the rules before you enter, and intend on following them. If you can't find the rules or they don't make sense to you, you probably should not enter the sweepstakes. As you read the rules of the sweepstakes, be sure you are eligible ad can agree to the terms. This may include agreeing to announce your name as the winner and a photo for publicity. The rules should also spell out the odds of winning, how a winner will be determined, and when the drawing will occur, as well as the value of the prize. You will also find an address for the company where entries can be sent or a list of winners may be requested. If you don't see all these things, you should not enter the sweepstakes.
Know the sponsors. Be sure they are the actual companies you think they are and not another company with a name similar to a company you know. You want to know you can trust them.
Remember what you enter - if you get a call from someone saying you filled out a form, either you won or you want out. Unless you read all the fine print, you might learn the hard way that your information was sold and that you are now on a cold-call list. If you never entered the sweepstakes, then you never won, even if they call you saying you did.
Only enter if it is a prize you really want and you know you will take advantage of. Otherwise it's not worth entering - you are wasting everyone's time, and someone else could have made use of the prize.
"Legitimate sweepstakes require affidavits before sending out any prize valued at more than $600" according to About.com, so if you receive a big check in the mail saying you've won, don't cash it! It's a scam and can result in legal implications and a hold on you bank account.
The addresses below are where you should turn if you suspect a fraudulent sweepstakes:
US POSTAL INSPECTION SERVICE
OPERATIONS SUPPORT GROUP
222 S RIVERSIDE PLAZA, SUITE 1250
CHICAGO, IL 60606-6100
800.372.8347
http://postalinspectors.uspis.gov/
FEDERAL TRADE COMMISSION
600 PENNSYLVANIA AVE NW
WASHINGTON, DC 20580-0001
877.FTC.HELP
www.ftc.gov
All this being said, you don't have to be afraid of entering sweepstakes, just be educated and aware ~ and have fun!
Only enter sweepstakes from companies you are familiar with or someone you trust has referred you to (beware of unknown companies or companies you have barely heard of). You want to trust the company you will be working with, should you win. Think about it. If a company says you won a trip to Mexico, you want to know you can contact that company should anything go wrong. If you're in the middle of a foreign country and you were dropped off in the middle of nowhere, who will you contact if the one phone number you have for this company suddenly "is no longer in service"?
NEVER pay money to enter a sweepstakes or anytime before you receive the prize, even if they claim it is a "refundable" deposit. Some ask you to pay a fee before you receive the prize...this is almost definitely a scam, so don't get yourself caught. There are so many sweepstakes to enter that are free, paying for an entry just don't make sense.
"No Purchase Necessary"- It's the law! You are supposed to have an equal chance of winning, whether or not you order. According to the Direct Marketing Association, the US Postal Inspection Service, and Call for Action, Inc, "the law strictly prohibits these false representations in sweepstakes
promotions:
- That the recipient is a winner, unless that person has actually won a prize
- That the recipient must order to enter
- That an entry must be sent in with payment for a previous purchase
- That the recipient must make a purchase in order to receive future sweepstakes
mailings - A fake check, if it does not include a statement on it that it is non-negotiable and has no cash value
- Any seal, name, or term that implies a federal government connection, approval
or endorsement"
Read the rules ~ be sure to read and understand the rules before you enter, and intend on following them. If you can't find the rules or they don't make sense to you, you probably should not enter the sweepstakes. As you read the rules of the sweepstakes, be sure you are eligible ad can agree to the terms. This may include agreeing to announce your name as the winner and a photo for publicity. The rules should also spell out the odds of winning, how a winner will be determined, and when the drawing will occur, as well as the value of the prize. You will also find an address for the company where entries can be sent or a list of winners may be requested. If you don't see all these things, you should not enter the sweepstakes.
Know the sponsors. Be sure they are the actual companies you think they are and not another company with a name similar to a company you know. You want to know you can trust them.
Remember what you enter - if you get a call from someone saying you filled out a form, either you won or you want out. Unless you read all the fine print, you might learn the hard way that your information was sold and that you are now on a cold-call list. If you never entered the sweepstakes, then you never won, even if they call you saying you did.
Only enter if it is a prize you really want and you know you will take advantage of. Otherwise it's not worth entering - you are wasting everyone's time, and someone else could have made use of the prize.
"Legitimate sweepstakes require affidavits before sending out any prize valued at more than $600" according to About.com, so if you receive a big check in the mail saying you've won, don't cash it! It's a scam and can result in legal implications and a hold on you bank account.
The addresses below are where you should turn if you suspect a fraudulent sweepstakes:
US POSTAL INSPECTION SERVICE
OPERATIONS SUPPORT GROUP
222 S RIVERSIDE PLAZA, SUITE 1250
CHICAGO, IL 60606-6100
800.372.8347
http://postalinspectors.uspis.gov/
FEDERAL TRADE COMMISSION
600 PENNSYLVANIA AVE NW
WASHINGTON, DC 20580-0001
877.FTC.HELP
www.ftc.gov
All this being said, you don't have to be afraid of entering sweepstakes, just be educated and aware ~ and have fun!
Monday, January 30, 2012
Mind and Body Center - A Chance to Win!
Head over to Facebook and "Like" the Mind and Body Center. At end of day Tuesday they will announce the winner of this month's drawing - prizes valued over $100! All you have to do to enter is "Like" their Facebook page using the link above.
They are located in Nashua, NH and the massage therapist is a friend of mine...she is excellent at what she does, and very professional. Visit www.themindandbodycenter.net to check them out. If you become a member and commit to at least 1 service per month, your rates will be even better.
Be on the lookout for a deal from them on Living Social soon. I am looking forward to that one myself!
Good luck!
Sunday, January 29, 2012
20% off at Bob's Stores
Bob's Stores has a great selection of footwear and clothing for the young and hip, athletic and working people. Although you can shop online, selection is better at the store, and you can even find great clearance items. Before you go, though, be sure to print THIS COUPON and bring it with you for an extra 20% off almost any item in the store! Includes Regular, sale, or clearance items! Coupon valid January 29th - February 4th.
I once bought a pair of scetchers for my daughter for $1.75 because they were on the clearance rack, I used my 20% off coupon, and I paired it with a $10 reward certificate I had just for being a part of their rewards program. Woohoo!
Going Green - Saving Money AND Energy
Many people I know are taking small steps towards creating a more energy-efficient everyday life. With so many things we can do, the best place to begin to save energy as well as save money by going green at home. I'd love to hear your ideas in the comments, but here are a few to start with:
Replace Light Bulbs
I realize Energy Star Rated Light Bulbs are more expensive initially than regular light bulbs, but consider this: according to NHsaves.com, "A typical ENERGY STAR rated Compact Fluorescent Lamp (CFL) lasts up to 10 times longer than an equivalent incandescent bulb and uses 75% less energy." That turns into REAL savings over time! Besides, you don't have to replace every light bulb in your house at the same time. Pick a time frame and replace one room at a time, or simply wait until a bulb burns out - then replace it (and any other bulbs in that light fixture) with something more efficient.
Right now there are bonus savings available. For a limited time, rebates are available for energy efficient light bulbs and fixtures (expires 12/31/2012):
$1 towards compact fluorescent light bulbs - download the $1 Rebate Form (PDF) here.*
$3 towards compact fluorescent light bulbs - download the $3 Rebate Form (PDF) here.*
$5 towards compact fluorescent light bulbs - download the $5 Rebate Form (PDF) here.*
$7 towards compact fluorescent light bulbs - download the $7 Rebate Form (PDF) here.*
$10 towards interior or exterior light fixtures and torchieres- download the $10 Rebate Form (PDF) here.* Look for other special values with multi-packs as well.
Of course, you also want to be sure to shut lights off when you're not using them.
Install a Programmable Thermostat:
I'm sure you've heard of this one - and it's a no-brainer. Fairly inexpensive and you can essentially set it and forget it. According to the US Department of Energy, "You can save around 10% a year on your heating and cooling bills by simply turning your thermostat back 10°–15° for eight hours." Just install the thermostat and program it to turn down the heat (or turn up the AC) during hours you are at work or in bed at night.
Replace Major Appliances:
OK, this one is a little more expensive than light bulbs, but it sure does help the environment as it helps to reduce the amount of resources you use - water and energy. You can actually calculate the amount of energy each of your appliances uses by renting a meter. I know some libraries offer rental of "Kill-A-Watt" Kits to help you figure out how much energy each pf your current appliances uses so you can compare to potential newer models and decide which appliances should be replaced first. This is a great tool, and it's free to use if you're borrowing it from the library.
Unplug Computers and TV's When Not In Use:
This is not an easy one to remember. However, there are advantages, saving energy and saving money, if you do it. Believe it or not, even when a computer or TV is off it is still using power. To make this task easy, consider investing in a Smart Strip power strip with auto-switching technology that automatically shuts down devices that are not in use, saving you money and reducing your overall energy usage. Simply plug your computer and computer components (printer, scanner)or home entertainment center peripherals into the Smart Strip. When you power down your computer or stereo, the Smart Strip automatically shuts down the power to your computer's and entertainment center's peripherals. Again, you spend a little more in advance, and although you don't save a ton, it is well worth it in the end.
Check and Replace (if needed) Your Heating and Cooling System:
When we moved into our home the heating system was old, but in great condition...so we left it in place. A few years later we had the system evaluated and found out it was running at about 60% efficiency. The system hadn't broken down just yet, but we knew it was old and we didn't want it to break down in the middle of winter. We decided to replace it with a 95% efficient system. WOW! We noticed a savings in our propane gas bill right away - and it was SIGNIFICANT...around $200 per month, then the price adjusted slightly over time because of the plan we are on. The money saved has helped to offset the cost of the new system, and knowing it's better for the environment is just an added bonus. We have not replaced the AC unit yet - we're waiting for that one to actually die (we don't consider it a necessity, so if it breaks down we can survive - I'm sure we'll regret that decision when it happens, though!). Regardless, I am convinced that when we do get around to replacing the central air conditioning unit, we will notice a money savings and energy usage difference on our electricity bill right away.
Filling in the Holes with Insulation:
Most of us already have insulation in our homes, but you'd be surprised to find out where it is missing and how much it would help to keep your home warm in the winter and cool in the summer.
For energy efficiency, your home should be properly insulated from the roof down to its foundation. This includes the following areas:
Replace Old Windows:
This is a huge one. It costs ALOT for really good windows, but the drafts will stop and you will offset your costs with energy and money savings. Do your research first. There are tons of options for windows - frames (wood, vinyl, or composite), Low-E and solar control coating, number of panes (single, double or triple pane windows), and gas filling between panes. Each option can add cost as well as add energy savings. This is one we plan to do when we have the money to do it - but we plan on doing it right. There is no sense in replacing old windows with new ones if the new ones are cheap and hardly reduce your energy usage. There are other things to consider, too...style, design, etc. so it is a big decision to make.
If you're like us and you can't afford to replace windows at the moment, visit the US Department of Energy's website for Improving the Energy Efficiency of Existing Windows.
There are so many other ways to invest in a greener approach to everyday life while reaping the money saving benefits. If you'd like more information and other ideas, let me know and I would be happy to write another segment on this topic. Hopefully this article will get you thinking and help get you started.
Replace Light Bulbs
I realize Energy Star Rated Light Bulbs are more expensive initially than regular light bulbs, but consider this: according to NHsaves.com, "A typical ENERGY STAR rated Compact Fluorescent Lamp (CFL) lasts up to 10 times longer than an equivalent incandescent bulb and uses 75% less energy." That turns into REAL savings over time! Besides, you don't have to replace every light bulb in your house at the same time. Pick a time frame and replace one room at a time, or simply wait until a bulb burns out - then replace it (and any other bulbs in that light fixture) with something more efficient.
Right now there are bonus savings available. For a limited time, rebates are available for energy efficient light bulbs and fixtures (expires 12/31/2012):
$1 towards compact fluorescent light bulbs - download the $1 Rebate Form (PDF) here.*
$3 towards compact fluorescent light bulbs - download the $3 Rebate Form (PDF) here.*
$5 towards compact fluorescent light bulbs - download the $5 Rebate Form (PDF) here.*
$7 towards compact fluorescent light bulbs - download the $7 Rebate Form (PDF) here.*
$10 towards interior or exterior light fixtures and torchieres- download the $10 Rebate Form (PDF) here.* Look for other special values with multi-packs as well.
Of course, you also want to be sure to shut lights off when you're not using them.
Install a Programmable Thermostat:
I'm sure you've heard of this one - and it's a no-brainer. Fairly inexpensive and you can essentially set it and forget it. According to the US Department of Energy, "You can save around 10% a year on your heating and cooling bills by simply turning your thermostat back 10°–15° for eight hours." Just install the thermostat and program it to turn down the heat (or turn up the AC) during hours you are at work or in bed at night.
Replace Major Appliances:
OK, this one is a little more expensive than light bulbs, but it sure does help the environment as it helps to reduce the amount of resources you use - water and energy. You can actually calculate the amount of energy each of your appliances uses by renting a meter. I know some libraries offer rental of "Kill-A-Watt" Kits to help you figure out how much energy each pf your current appliances uses so you can compare to potential newer models and decide which appliances should be replaced first. This is a great tool, and it's free to use if you're borrowing it from the library.
Unplug Computers and TV's When Not In Use:
This is not an easy one to remember. However, there are advantages, saving energy and saving money, if you do it. Believe it or not, even when a computer or TV is off it is still using power. To make this task easy, consider investing in a Smart Strip power strip with auto-switching technology that automatically shuts down devices that are not in use, saving you money and reducing your overall energy usage. Simply plug your computer and computer components (printer, scanner)or home entertainment center peripherals into the Smart Strip. When you power down your computer or stereo, the Smart Strip automatically shuts down the power to your computer's and entertainment center's peripherals. Again, you spend a little more in advance, and although you don't save a ton, it is well worth it in the end.
Check and Replace (if needed) Your Heating and Cooling System:
When we moved into our home the heating system was old, but in great condition...so we left it in place. A few years later we had the system evaluated and found out it was running at about 60% efficiency. The system hadn't broken down just yet, but we knew it was old and we didn't want it to break down in the middle of winter. We decided to replace it with a 95% efficient system. WOW! We noticed a savings in our propane gas bill right away - and it was SIGNIFICANT...around $200 per month, then the price adjusted slightly over time because of the plan we are on. The money saved has helped to offset the cost of the new system, and knowing it's better for the environment is just an added bonus. We have not replaced the AC unit yet - we're waiting for that one to actually die (we don't consider it a necessity, so if it breaks down we can survive - I'm sure we'll regret that decision when it happens, though!). Regardless, I am convinced that when we do get around to replacing the central air conditioning unit, we will notice a money savings and energy usage difference on our electricity bill right away.
Filling in the Holes with Insulation:
Most of us already have insulation in our homes, but you'd be surprised to find out where it is missing and how much it would help to keep your home warm in the winter and cool in the summer.
For energy efficiency, your home should be properly insulated from the roof down to its foundation. This includes the following areas:
- Attic spaces including attic access doors and knee walls
- Around air ducts
- Cathedral ceilings
- Exterior walls
- Floors above unheated garages
- Foundations, including basements, crawl spaces, slab-on-grade floors
Replace Old Windows:
This is a huge one. It costs ALOT for really good windows, but the drafts will stop and you will offset your costs with energy and money savings. Do your research first. There are tons of options for windows - frames (wood, vinyl, or composite), Low-E and solar control coating, number of panes (single, double or triple pane windows), and gas filling between panes. Each option can add cost as well as add energy savings. This is one we plan to do when we have the money to do it - but we plan on doing it right. There is no sense in replacing old windows with new ones if the new ones are cheap and hardly reduce your energy usage. There are other things to consider, too...style, design, etc. so it is a big decision to make.
If you're like us and you can't afford to replace windows at the moment, visit the US Department of Energy's website for Improving the Energy Efficiency of Existing Windows.
There are so many other ways to invest in a greener approach to everyday life while reaping the money saving benefits. If you'd like more information and other ideas, let me know and I would be happy to write another segment on this topic. Hopefully this article will get you thinking and help get you started.
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