spend on designing your perfect living space?

Do you want to reduce the cost of living and free up more cash to spend on designing your perfect living space? All you need to do is make a few simple changes to your way of life and the way you do things, and it’s a simple task. You won’t just be saving money - you’ll be doing your bit for the environment, too.

Now, to make the most of your savings, you should be prepared to make a little investment here and there. Nothing on this list is expensive, though. So, no matter what your budget is, read on to slash those costs and have more money to spend on the most important things in life. Once you get started, that dream living room may not be out of reach after all!

Learn what’s costing you money

The problem with energy is that it's hard to see how much you are using. You rely on the utility companies to work out your bills for you and just hand over the cash when they ask for it. However, there are a few solutions. First of all, take more notice of your gas and electric meters. You’ll soon start to recognize how many units you use when you have the washing machine on for an hour or so.

Alternatively, you could by your own energy meter that displays - by the cent - how much your home is currently costing you. When you use your dryer, you will see that figure rise in front of your eyes. You will start to become a lot more sensitive about turning lights and electronics devices off when you aren’t using them. It’s such a simple thing to do, but ever so effective.

Maintain everything

We all have an astonishing array of electrical goods and systems in our homes. The trouble is; many households don’t bother keeping them in good condition or using them correctly. Let’s take the fridge as an example. If you stuff it full to the brim, it needs to work harder to keep everything fresh, and it will use more juice to make it happen. Faulty goods aren’t efficient, and as efficiency is the very thing we are looking for here, it’s clear to see why maintenance is an issue.

Another critical area for maintenance is your air con and heating. Both these systems need to be cleaned and regularly checked by an experienced HVAC contractor. They will ensure that your system is efficient, keeps the cold out, and traps the heat in. Yes, there is a little investment involved. But it will pay for itself in no time at all by reducing your heating and electricity bills.

Seal and insulate

Heat loss - or cold loss during the summer - is literally your savings drifting out of your home. To stop this horrendous waste of energy and money, make sure you trap it in whenever you can. Insulate your attic space - and your cavity walls if you can afford it.

You should also seal any holes in your floorboards and ensure that your windows are correctly installed. The slightest crack or hole can mean wasted energy, and the better you seal your house, the more efficient it will be.

Have you got any ideas about saving money around the home? Let us know in the comments section below!