The Watchdog of Canadian Consumer Rights

Top 6 Ways to Save Money This Summer

It’s easy to think that saving money in the summer is a snap. You don’t have to drive the kids to school, you don’t need the heat in the house, and we tend to eat less when it’s hot. But expenses can creep up when you’re dazzled by the summer sun – so here are the top six ways to save money this summer.

6. Sun Dried

You’ve been waiting for that summer sun all winter. You can’t wait to get under its warm rays. Well, neither can your laundry. A great way to save on your electricity bill is to hang laundry and let the sun dry it for free. String up those wet clothes on the backyard clothesline or drape them around the apartment and your laundry will be dry in no time.

5. Garden Variety Groceries

Want to save on gas? Spend less time in line at the supermarket? Then grow your own food. This is good, wholesome fun work and nothing tastes as good as something you’ve grown yourself. Plus for the price of a packet of seeds and a watering can you can have all the good, healthy fruits and vegetables you can eat. What you can’t eat can be saved as preserves for the winter.

4. Clear The Air

Before the dog days of summer hit, you’ll be hauling out that air conditioner to help beat the heat. It’s a good idea to clean or replace those filters so that the machine will operate smoothly. Blocked or dirty machines become rabid voltage hounds that can eat up your money while not cooling your home down.

3. Water You Waiting For

It’s a good idea to water your lawn in the early morning or late at night rather than in the afternoon. High afternoon temperatures will evaporate the water and you’ll find you watering more often or having to use more to get the job done. Morning and evening watering will have the best chance of soaking in while the temperature is cooler and you’ll cut down on your water consumption.

2. As Summer Sales Away

Before you put away the beach umbrella and reach for the rake, think about what you spent your money on over the summer and try to take advantage of end of season sales to get a head start on next summer. Radical discounts usually abound, as stores are desperate to move seasonal merchandise. If it’s not perishable, then lay in a supply for next year.

1. Visit Your Own City

Every city has its attractions. Every city receives tourists eager to see the local sights and sounds and this goes for your city, too. So why not take a vacation where you live? Book a hotel, snag a travel guide and start sightseeing. You know the best restaurants already, there are no currency conversion or language problems, and you’ll save a bundle on airfare, taxis and so on. People come from all over the world to check out your hometown so maybe it’s time you did as well.