Add money to your wallet

Photo: Contributed - (Flickr user, spine)

We all love to save money, but most of us don't enjoy penny–pinching or sacrificing to do so. Luckily, there are many ways to generate significant savings…while actually increasing the enjoyment in our homes and lifestyles.

Install water–saving faucets and showerheads.  According to Environment Canada, Canada is one of the highest water users per capita in the world. By swapping your current tap for a water–saving version, you'll not only save some cash… but you can save the environment as well.

Update your appliances.  If your kitchen appliances are more than 10 years old, chances are they are not the most energy efficient (and they may not be in the most stylish finish). Although it requires an initial investment, adding energy–saving appliances can significantly reduce your monthly bills – and increase your home's value when it comes time
to sell.

Plant a vegetable garden.  We all strive to eat healthy, but organically grown vegetables can add up on your grocery bill. Planting a vegetable garden is a simple and inexpensive way to bring these delicious tastes into your home… and can be a fun family project.

Besides your home, your car is usually your next biggest investment. And while gas prices are still high, there are many steps you can take to increase your fuel economy. First, bypass higher grade (and more expensive) fuel types. Unless you have a high–performance vehicle, these are no benefit to you. Next, be sure that your tires are at the correct air pressure. Too much or too little will not only reduce your fuel economy, but it will affect the smoothness of your ride and cause your tires to wear unevenly (which is another costly investment).

By following a few simple tips, you'll soon increase the enjoyment in your home and lifestyle…and enjoy the extra cash in your wallet.

This article is written by or on behalf of an outsourced columnist and does not necessarily reflect the views of Castanet.