15 easy ways to find a little extra money this spring

We love finding money in your coat pocket when the seasons change, and these simple tips from Personal Finance Expert Kelley Keehn are even better. Take your spring cleaning to a whole new level by changing some small habits to make room for big savings!

1: CHANGE YOUR FURNACE FILTER EVERY MONTH

Changing your furnace filter every month can save up to $60 a year.  Plus, it will prolong the life span of your furnace!

2: INSTALL A TIMER IN YOUR WATER HEATER

Installing a timer can save on your annual heating costs.

3: REPURPOSE OLD FURNITURE

The price of  wood is continuing to rise, and one person's junk is another’s treasure.  Plus, upcycling is a growing trend for 2021 so there's no shortage or ideas to be found!

4: MAKE YOUR OWN HOUSEHOLD CLEANERS

Try replacing house hold cleaners with a solution of 1/2 cup vinegar with 2 cups water.  For an all purpose cleaner, try 4 tablespoons of baking soda and a litre of warm water.

5: INSTALL A CLOTHESLINE

You’ll save over $85 a year on electricity and dryer sheets by opting to keep your dryer off.  Plus, what smells fresher than air-dried clothing?

6: GROW YOUR OWN VEGGIES

Not only will you save big bucks on your greens, they look lovely and are a great winter pick me up as you watch them grow indoors.  You don't need a big space.  There's loads of easy grow containers online and sprouting costs pennies per batch.

7: RENT RENOVATION TOOLS INSTEAD OF BUYING

Don't go out and buy every tool to you need to complete a reno - rent from your local bix box home improvement store and save space and cash. Things like water pressure washers, jack hammers, drills and carpet cleaners can save you big bucks on your next DIY project.

8:INSULATE CRAWL SPACES IN YOUR HOUSE

You’ll not only feel cozier during the winter, but you'll see a savings on your heating bill.

9: REPAIR & REGLAZE YOUR WINDOWS BEFORE REPLACING THEM

This isn't an easy project, but it's a worthwhile one when you compare the costs.

10: SWITCH TO ENERGY EFFICIENT BULBS

They might cost more upfront, but will save you much more in the long run.

11: A COAT OF PAINT GOES A LONG WAY TO A MINI MAKEOVER

Strapped for cash but want to refresh a room? A coat of paint goes a long way to achieve a mini makeover.  Get your supplies and brushes from a dollar store. The total cost including paint and primer likely won’t set your refresher back more than around $100.

12: LOOK FOR REBATE PROGRAMS THAT YOUR CITY MAY OFFER. 

Depending on your city, everything from upgrading appliances, windows, doors and bulbs could be included in rebate programs. Some can put up to $1,500 in your pocket!

13: DRIVE SLOWER

Driving slower can make the savings add up. Switch to 88km from 104km and you can save 36% on gas on highway driving. That’s an average of $150 savings per year.

14: KEEP THE TIRES IN ALIGNMENT

Keep your tires in alignment and save nearly $140 per year. Also, save on the wear of your tires which can add up to $70 extra dollars a year.

15: DON’T EYEBALL THE PRESSURE

Use a tire gauge and keep tires inflated. Underinflated tires cause your engine to work harder and can cost almost $600 a year in gas, and $150 in wear on your tires.  

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