Being Seasonal Saves Money

It’s officially Spring, and that’s good news for those of us looking to save a few bucks. This is the time of year when living seasonal really pays off.

I went to pay my utility bills the other night and was pleasantly surprised. Combined, my gas, electric and water/trash bills were about $150. While I was happy to usher in Spring with the heavy down pour we had, I was even more excited when I remembered the ways we can all save some money for the next few months.

Start with utilities. If you have a sprinkler system, shut it off. If you have ceiling fans, turn them on. Throw open the windows and breathe in some fresh air. This is our rainy season, or as I like to call it, free water season. With as much rain as we had the other night, you shouldn’t need to water your grass for a while. Turn off the automatic timer on the sprinkler system and just turn it on manually when your grass look like it needs a drink.

Save your a/c for the summer. As warm as it has been this year, we may not even have a month left of crisp air before the heat wave starts. Turn off your a/c and open your windows. If it gets a little warm mid afternoon, turn up the speed on your ceiling fans. If it gets a little cool at bedtime, toss a light blanket on the bed. Your wallet will thank you.

Stock your kitchen with seasonal foods. I absolutely love when something other than oranges, apples and bananas come back in season. We have all of those in the house right now, but we also have fresh strawberries, blackberries, plums and pineapple. You can really save a lot on your grocery bill by cooking with/eating fresh herbs, fruits and vegetables that are in season, especially if they are grown locally. Don’t limit yourself to the grocery store. Shop your local farmers market, too. Or, plant your own garden. This is the perfect time to start.

Buy your summer wardrobe now. If someone in your house is going to need new clothes this summer, start shopping now. Retailers like Old Navy, Kohl’s and others are offering big markdowns on summer essentials like short sleeved tops, shorts and sandals. It seems a little earlier than in past years, which means by summer, your deals and your selection will be gone. Use the money you are saving on food and utilities to stock up on season clothing now.

Happy Spring and Happy savings!