The costs of living add up quickly enough — you don’t need your home to be an unnecessary drain on your bank account. From sneaky air leaks to low water pressure, money wasters can lurk where you least expect. But where to begin fixing those hidden expenses? Time to call in the home professionals. These contractors were graciously willing to share their know-how on simple, cheap home hacks that can save you thousands of dollars.
Make sure your windows are properly insulated
Duck Brand Window Insulation Kit
Amazon
“As someone who lives in an older house with windows that could use replacing, my top hack for saving money is ensuring proper insulation around doors and windows during the winter,” Andre Kazimierski, CEO of Improovy Painters, says. “I usually put these up once the weather starts dropping below freezing at night.”
This window insulator kit is a simple-yet-effective solution for sealing drafts and blocking cold weather during the winter months. There's no need for precise measurements; just apply the window shrink film and cut to size. The resulting transparent window film allows you to see through while maintaining an airtight seal.
Seal off your exterior doors to prevent drafts
Holikme Door Draft Stopper
Amazon
As the temperature outside drops, the heating bill rises. “You can also add runners at the base of your exterior doors to keep out excess cold,” suggests Walter.
This door draft stopper is designed to reduce noise, maintaining a peaceful environment while regulating the room temperature. Installation is a breeze, and the high-quality, non-toxic material ensures longevity and resistance to temperature extremes.
Use prefab molding instead of hiring a carpenter
Gaahing Paintable Wall Trim
Amazon
“Have an issue with some trim and don’t want to engage a carpenter or GC?” asks Anna Karp, CEO and co-founder of NYC-based Bolster. “Want a high-end look without breaking the bank? In come the prefab moldings which can help you with an easy fix!”
Enhance your home's decor with this self-adhesive trim. No special tools are required, making it perfect for DIY enthusiasts. This trim can be applied to various surfaces, including walls, doors, mirrors, and more. Each package includes 16.4 feet of molding trim (which can be cut to your desired length) and a glue refill pack, making the installation quick and easy.
Illuminate your kitchen with a self-adhesive LED light strip
Lepro LED Strip Light
Amazon
Strip lights may be all the rage with Gen Zers making TikToks, but they also look good in the home. “[They] not only make your home look more aesthetic, but also save your energy consumption,” says Jono Thornely, director of Correct Caulking. “This LED light strip is perfect for your kitchen, under cabinet, and bathroom. It has a tunable white strip light that allows you to choose from warm to cool light with adjustable brightness.”
This LED strip light is equipped with strong 3M adhesive, making it easy to install and keeping it in place. Plus, its flexibility lets you customize your setup; you can easily cut it to the desired length. Whether you need under-cabinet lighting, vanity mirror lights, or ambient room lighting, this strip light has you covered.
Change your own AC filter
Filtrete Air Filters (6-Pack)
Amazon
They say prevention is better than a cure, which is why Kate Pollack, manager of Lawrenceville Fuel and Hullfish Real Estate, recommends this: “Change your own furnace/air-conditioning air filters. Ensuring proper air flow can help you avoid an expensive service call.”
This six-pack of pleated filters is designed to pull in and trap unwanted particles, ensuring cleaner air flows through. Each filter has a three-month lifespan, and they can be used in furnaces, air conditioners, heating systems, or HVAC systems.
Improve your kitchen lighting without expensive remodeling
Wobane Under Cabinet Lighting Kit
Amazon
“Light technology has changed over the years, and as contractors, we have seen a rapid shift to the use of LED strips as under cabinet lighting,” says Karp. “It’s an easy hack that can certainly change the way you cook!”
These DIY cabinet strip lights are ideal for cabinets, closets, desks, bookshelves, bedrooms, and more. The lights are not only energy-efficient but also very bright, providing 1200 lumens with just 12 watts of power. Installation is easy — all the accessories you need are included. Just clean, stick on, and connect.
Wipe down your washer after each use
Swedish Wholesale Swedish Dishcloths (10-Pack)
Amazon
A dirty washing machine is a bit of an oxymoron. “To keep your front-load washer safe from mold, which can lead to pricey repairs, it's a good idea to do a quick wipe after each use,” says Evgeny Maslansky, expert in appliance repair from ARNI Services. “This helps dry the rubber gasket, stopping bad smells and mold. By doing this regularly, you save money on potential big fixes later.”
These Swedish dishcloths are reusable, so they can be washed and used time and time again. Their multipurpose nature makes them safe for various surfaces, from marble to stainless steel. They’re ideal for scrubbing and drying dishes, sinks, tubs, and showers. Made from cellulose and cotton, these dishcloths become soft when wet and offer a gritty texture when dry for thorough cleaning.
Insulate your hot water storage tank
Frost King All Season Water Heater Insulation Blanket
Amazon
“Just like insulating other parts of your home, adding insulation to your water tank can lead to significant savings,” says Jimmy Hiller, CEO and president of Happy Hiller. “Take a moment to check if your tank is an older model and lacks proper insulation with an R-value of at least 24. If it falls short, it's time to consider insulation. The cost is a small investment that you'll quickly recoup through energy savings.”
This water heater insulation blanket is designed to fit gas, oil, or electric water heaters up to 60 gallons in size; it also comes with a roll of plastic tape for convenient installation. This vinyl-backed fiberglass insulation blanket helps conserve energy, reduce heat loss, and save on your utility bills.
Avoid overwatering your lawn with a programmable hose timer
RAINPOINT Sprinkler Timer
Amazon
Bryan Clayton, CEO of GreenPal, suggests homeowners invest in a tool that gauges how much water your lawn needs. “A rain gauge can detect recent rain and tell your system to skip the next watering, preventing over-saturation of your lawn and unnecessary water costs,” he says.
This sprinkler timer attaches to your outdoor faucet for hands-off maintenance, and it’s made even more efficient with a large, easy-to-read LCD screen. You can customize the frequency and duration of your watering schedule, and a rain delay mode allows you to pause watering for 24, 48, or 72 hours. Conserve your water usage while ensuring your plants and yard get the water they need.
Make your garden healthier by mulching
Rubberific Shredded Rubber Mulch
Amazon
“Mulching is another cost-effective hack,” says Hyland. He says “it reduces water evaporation, keeps the roots cool,” and other healthy things for your garden.
Unlike traditional mulch, this rubber mulch won’t fade, rot, compress, or lose its original beauty when faced with harsh weather conditions. In fact, it guarantees up to 12 years of vibrant color, eliminating the need for annual reapplication. It’s non-toxic and IPEMA-certified for safe use on playgrounds.
Consider installing a drip irrigation system
Yomile 240FT Drip Irrigation System Kit
Amazon
“Going green with your landscaping choices can save you a significant amount of money,” says Lindsey Hyland, gardening and landscaping expert and creator of Urban Organic Yield. “Consider installing a drip irrigation system. It targets water directly to the plant roots, minimizing wastage.”
This automatic irrigation kit includes 155 different components, offering four types of sprayers to cover a span of up to 240 feet. Whether you need misting, lawn irrigation, or garden watering, this system has you covered. Its micro-sprinkler design ensures that your plants receive the right amount of water exactly where they need it. According to the brand, this kit saves up to 75% more water compared to traditional sprinklers.
Switch to energy-efficient LED light bulbs
MASTERY MART Vintage Dimmable Light Bulbs (6-Pack)
Amazon
Saving money on your electric bill is simple, says Adrian Cruz, co-owner at Columbus Concrete Co. “Switch to energy-efficient LED light bulbs, which last longer and use less electricity.”
These vintage-inspired bulbs offer a soft white glow with full 2700K brightness. You can control the brightness of these dimmable bulbs, from low lighting for date night to high brightness for reading. These LED bulbs significantly reduce energy consumption while still having the warm, retro look of an Edison bulb with its filament-style design. Use them for any room in your home, from bathrooms to living rooms.
Install faucet aerators on your sinks
IDB 1080 Degree Multifunctional Rotatable Faucet Aerator - Universal Swivel Faucet Extender - Durable Splash Proof - For Kitchen and Bathroom Sink
Amazon
The same equation applies to water: The less you use, the less you pay. “Install low-flow showerheads and faucet aerators to conserve water and reduce your water bill,” advises Cruz.
This faucet aerator has an easy-to-install design that won’t require you to break out the toolbox. The stainless steel piece functions as a faucet extender and also allows you to switch to “stream” mode, which offers strong water pressure combined with fine water output.
Plant an herb or vegetable garden
Garden Republic Indoor Herb Garden Kit
Amazon
When possible, save money by cutting out the middle man. “[...]consider starting a small herb or vegetable garden to save on grocery expenses” suggests Cruz.
Whether you're a novice gardener or have a green thumb, this all-in-one indoor garden kit includes everything you need to grow fresh cilantro, large leaf Italian parsley, English thyme, and Genovese basil right on your windowsill. Perfect for gifts or adding a touch of green to your kitchen, these heirloom, non-GMO seeds are grown in the US.
Replace your stove's drip pan
COZZIVITA Stove Drip Pan for Electric Stove Top, Compatible with Frigidaire 10% Energy Save by Enamel Spraying Prevent Bending and Rust Includes a Set of 4 Oven Burner Drip Pans, Black
Amazon
“Regularly replace stove drip pans (usually under $5 each) to improve energy efficiency and prevent costly stove repairs,” says Robert Fields, owner of ATX Stained Concrete.
With multi-layer enamel coating to boost insulation, these drip pans help reduce energy consumption by improving insulation and increasing cooking speed. The thicker enamel ensures the pans stay resistant to bending and curling. Keeping them clean is a breeze — simply toss them in the dishwasher.
Add privacy & block heat with this window film
FuFin Total Blackout Window Privacy Film
Amazon
The song might say to “let the sunshine in”, but that’s not always cost-effective. “This blackout window film does not only provide privacy, but its heat controlling and 100% UV-blocking feature makes it perfect to add to your home,” says Thornely. “It comes in different sizes, and one kit has all the tools you need to install.”
This privacy film is ideal for various smooth glass surfaces anywhere in the home, including sliding glass doors. The film comes with everything you need to install it, and it blocks 100% of UV and IR rays, significantly reducing heat and allowing your air conditioner to operate more efficiently.
Declutter your cables with a stylish cable organizer box
D-Line Cable Management Box
Amazon
A tangle of wires by an outlet is a tripping hazard and an eyesore. “If you're someone who has multiple cords plugged in one power source, then you definitely need this!” says Thornely. “[A] cable management box is the perfect way to make your work setup, living room or entertainment system less cluttered.”
This versatile cable organizer accommodates power strips with its spacious length of 16.5 inches. It’s available in black or white (or white with a bamboo lid), and also comes in a smaller size.
Increase your fridge's efficiency by organizing it with these clear bins
Greenco Stackable Clear Bins (Set of 8)
Amazon
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“Let's face it, your fridge is an energy hog,” says David Walter, electrical contractor at Electrician Mentor. “But you can minimize that by setting the fridge at 37 degrees and the freezer at zero degrees. Going any further than that is a waste of energy. Also, fill it up. Less space in the fridge means less space that needs to be cooled. Bonus points if you clean the coils on the back regularly.”
Keep your stocked fridge tidy and organized with these durable, stackable bins. Made from BPA-free, shatterproof plastic, this eight-bin set has handles for easy portability. Their transparent design allows you to quickly locate what you need.
Make your lighting more energy-efficient — & more inviting
GE Relax 8-Pack 60 W Light Bulbs
Amazon
“Light and color can have a huge impact on our moods and a very simple hack for feeling better is taking stock of whether our lightbulbs are ‘hot’ or ‘cold’,” says Karp. “If they are cold, a very simple hack is to look for bulbs that are warmer and a replacement should immediately make a room feel more comfortable.”
Upgrade your lighting to be both efficient and inviting with these energy-efficient LED bulbs. Emitting a warm, soft white light with a full-brightness 2700K color temperature, these bulbs create a comfortable and cozy ambiance. Their A19 shape and frosted finish make them suitable for ceiling lights, wall lights, and table lamps, while their dimmable design ensures compatibility with most dimmer switches.
Upgrade your kitchen backsplash with a high-end look that’s sneakily cheap
Art3d Subway Tile Kitchen Backsplash (20-Pack)
Amazon
A backsplash can do wonders for transforming a kitchen, says Karp. “With the right grout, a humble white tile can look amazing. Also, think about a herringbone pattern to make it look more luxe.”
Ideal for areas like kitchen backsplashes and bathrooms, these water- and heat-resistant tiles are easy to clean and protect your walls from stains. With a classic subway tile design, these provide a realistic, polished look. Their easy interlocking installation, cut-to-size design, and peel-and-stick backing make them a breeze to install.
Spring for the little details to make a space look high-end
Seasonwood White Shower Curtain
Amazon
Karp suggests opting for a nautical theme in the bathroom. “A marine theme can make a bathroom look more ‘nautical’ and as such, bathrooms can look more high-end!” she says.
Embrace the oceanic theme subtly with this navy-blue-striped shower curtain. The tight weave and superior polyester yarns give it a firm, smooth texture, promoting water bead formation and making it ideal for damp, moisture-rich bathroom environments. Reinforced buttonholes work with most shower hooks and rings, and a weighted hem keeps the curtain in place, preventing water leaks.
Make a room look tropical-luxe with peel-&-stick wallpaper
NuWallpaper Maui Peel & Stick Wallpaper
Amazon
“Tropical wallpaper is a favorite in the interior design industry — it’s also perfect alongside white ceramic and…plants!” says Karp. “Wallpaper can be placed strategically in an area of the house that needs an accent; it does not have to be installed along full walls.”
There’s no need to hire a costly contractor to achieve your tropical oasis at home — this peel-and-stick wall paper is a breeze to install. Plus, it can be repositioned during installation, making it a fantastic choice for DIY projects. Safe for walls and suitable for any smooth, flat surface, this eye-catching design features a vibrant palm-and-banana-leaf print that will bring a touch of the tropics to any room.
Accent with these trendy plant pots that elevate your living space
LaDoVita 3 Pack Ceramic Plant Pots 6/5/4 inch
Amazon
Living greenery is the ultimate decor accessory. “Plants always make a place look better, and plant pots are an affordable way to uplift a space,” agrees Karp. “White ceramic plant pots go along perfectly well with the black and white trend this year!”
The modern, elegant design of this three-piece ceramic planter set will elevate your plant game and bring sophistication to any space. With three different sizes — a large, medium, and small — these plant pots are perfect for most any type of plant, including cacti, ferns, snake plants, herbs, and succulents. These ceramic pots are made from high-quality kaolin clay, offering durability, weather resistance, and versatility for both indoor and outdoor use.
Clean your gutters thoroughly to prevent clogs
Amerimax Home Products Gutter Scoop
Amazon
It’s important to periodically clear out your gutters to prevent clogs. “Clogged gutters can lead to water pooling on your roof, which can result in significant and expensive damages,” says Craig Ricks Jr., president of Acadian Windows and Siding. “With a little maintenance, you can avoid these financial, logistical, and safety nightmares.”
It’s worth investing in this gutter scoop for hassle-free gutter cleaning. With its high handle position, your hands are protected from scrapes and scratches. The extended tongue easily reaches under gutter supports, while the narrow heel allows you to pull out the loaded scoop with ease. It flexes to fit your gutter, and it’s a versatile tool for other outdoor tasks, such as spreading rock salt or fertilizer.
Consider investing in blackout curtains
Rutterllow 100% Blackout Curtain 2 Panels , Heat and Full light Blocking Drapes with Grommets for Bedroom, Black Thermal Insulated Window Treatment Drapes for Living Room (Black, 2 Panels, 52 x 96 inch)
Amazon
Personally, I love a blackout curtain for helping me sleep. But Ricks points out they do more than keep your bedroom nice and dark: “These curtains keep light and heat from entering through your windows and trap cool air from escaping during the summers. In the winter, they’ll help separate you from the chill outside and hold warm air inside.”
These blackout curtains are committed to providing you with 100% blackout, regulating room temperature, and maintaining privacy. The grommet-top design features six copper grommets, adding a durable-yet-elegant touch to your decor. They come in over a dozen colors to suit your room’s look. Plus, they’re easy to care for, as they are machine-washable in cold water.
Lower cooling costs with reflective insulation
INSULATION MARKETPLACE Reflective Foam Core Insulation Roll
Amazon
“If you live in a hotter climate, consider putting reflective insulation or radiant barriers in your attic,” says Ricks. “By reflecting heat away from your home, you can keep it cooler and spend less money on air conditioning.”
This reflective foam insulation reflects 95% of radiant energy to create a perfect radiant barrier. Whether used indoors or outdoors, it serves as a vapor barrier unaffected by humidity and moisture. It also excels as a sound barrier, effectively blocking sound waves. This material is not only supremely effective, but also easy to install, cut, and clean. It's strong yet lightweight, and made from non-toxic materials.
Install a programmable thermostat to lower energy costs
Honeywell Home Programmable Thermostat
Amazon
End fights over the thermostat once and for all. “A programmable thermostat allows you to adjust the temperature of your home according to your schedule and preferences,” says Mark Morris, master plumber and HVAC technician at Deluxe Plumbers. “You can set it to lower the temperature when you are away or asleep, and raise it when you are home or awake. This way, you can save energy and money on your heating and cooling bills.”
This programmable thermostat allows you to set one consistent program for the entire week, including four program periods each day — wake, leave, arrive, and sleep. Enjoy precise temperature control with an accuracy of +/- 1 degree Fahrenheit. This thermostat remembers your settings during power outages and provides flexible display options in Fahrenheit or Celsius, as well as a 12- or 24-hour clock.
Replace your showerhead to save water & improve your showers
Speakman Low-Flow Shower Head
Amazon
Upgrade your shower experience while lowering your cost. “You can save water and money by replacing your showerhead with a low-flow or high-efficiency one that uses less than two gallons of water per minute,” says Morris. “A low-flow or high-efficiency showerhead can also provide a better shower experience by delivering more pressure and spray options.”
Experience a new level of showering with this stylish low-flow showerhead. It features a powerful single-function spray setting that optimizes water pressure, creating a high-pressure shower experience even in low-pressure installations. This modern showerhead stands out with its unique transparent frame, available in three elegant finishes: jade, dusk blue, and smoky gray.
Seal those sneaky air leaks around the house
Gorilla Waterproof Caulk & Seal Silicone Sealant
Amazon
You could be losing money through nooks and crannies in your home without even knowing it. “Air leaks can make your home uncomfortable and increase your heating and cooling costs by up to 30%,” warns Morris. “You can seal your air leaks by using caulk, weatherstripping, foam, or tape to fill the gaps or holes around your doors, windows, outlets, pipes, vents, or ducts.”
Gorilla Waterproof Caulk & Seal sealant is a versatile solution for sealing out air and moisture both indoors and outdoors. Use it in your kitchen or bath, on your windows, and even outdoors in your car or gutters. What sets it apart is its quick 30-minute water readiness, ensuring it will work even in humid conditions. Not only is it resistant to mold and mildew, but it also maintains its quality over time without yellowing, shrinking, or cracking.
Incorporate more power strips into your living spaces
Power Strip, SUPERDANNY Surge Protector, 5 Outlets, 3 USB Ports, 4.5 Ft Extension Cord, 900 Joules, Mountable, Overload Switch, Protected Indicator Light, Multiple Protections for Home Office, White
Amazon
You’ve heard of The Phantom of the Opera, but did you know about phantom electricity use? “When it comes to power usage in general, a good practice is to start using power strips, where you can have the main strips around the home organized and ready for use,” Richard Mann, founder and owner of Premier Porcelain. “The best part is that when you’re done using it, turning it off will likely save you money by avoiding the dreaded phantom electricity use.”
This smart USB power strip is a convenient solution for all your charging needs. With five AC outlets and three smart USB ports, it auto-adjusts the charging rate for various electronic devices. The power strip features multiple protection mechanisms, guarding against overload, short-circuits, surges, and high temperatures. Plus, it's designed for easy mounting with two holes on the back.
