It’s easy to get into a spending rut, buying the same stuff you’ve always bought out of habit or just because your mom always had that kind of soup in her pantry.
But sometimes the same old, same old can cost you, whether we’re talking everyday purchases, monthly bills, or occasional big-ticket items. In many cases, making a simple swap can save you money, time, and even headaches. We checked with experts in more than a dozen fields to find out what you should stop wasting your money on— and what to spend it on instead.
RUNAWAY AC AND HEAT
According to energystar.gov, a typical U.S. household spends more than $2,200 a year on energy bills, with nearly half going to heating and air conditioning.
“A programmable thermostat can save you 10 percent a year on your cooling and heating bills,” says Mary Farrell, senior editor at Consumer Reports. Set your thermostat seven to ten degrees higher on warmer days and the same amount lower on chilly days and see whether the money you save doesn’t feel better than being slightly warmer or cooler than you’re used to. Even easier, make these adjustments when you plan to be out of the house.
SUPERMARKET FLOWERS
Bu hikaye Reader's Digest US dergisinin April 2021 sayısından alınmıştır.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Giriş Yap
Bu hikaye Reader's Digest US dergisinin April 2021 sayısından alınmıştır.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Giriş Yap
GOTCHA!
We asked for it: What's the best prank you ever pulled?
KITT THE COURAGEOUS K-9
Officer Bill Cushing needed a partner. His dog needed a purpose. Together, they rescued each other.
Let's Dance!
It's good for your body, soul and even your brain
DISASTER ON THE RIVER
Two canoeists struggle to keep themselves and their friendship-afloat
WHAT HAPPENS TO ALL THE STUFF WE RETURN
Think your rejects go back on the shelves? Think again.
Words to Live By
Poems offered me an anchor as I lost my son, so I shared them
LOST, FOUND, HOMEWARD BOUND
A collection of heart-thumping, tail-wagging, zoomies-inducing pet reunion tales
Paging Dr. AI
IF YOU'VE EVER Googled symptoms (and who hasn't?), you've probably scared yourself with a dire diagnosis, with no doctor there to vet the source and put the information in context. But we can't help ourselves. So can AI help?
The HEALTHY WELLNESS FROM THEHEALTHY.COM
A vaccine is finally on the way. In the meantime, here's how to protect yourself from ticks.
How to Speak Like a Midwesterner
FROM THE BOOK A GUIDE TO MIDWESTERN CONVERSATION