Thats essentially what you do when you make certain energy-efficient home improvements to lower your expenses.

And now is the time for improvements, as inflation has tightened the average familys budget.

An energy-efficient home can keep those utility bills at bay and give your family some breathing room.

A man installs energy saving lightbulbs in a ceiling light fixture.

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Need Some Quick Cash?

If youre looking to boost your income this month, weve got just the thing for you.

And its not just electric prices that are skyrocketing.

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But there may be other ways you could be saving money, too.

Check out some of our favorite ways to save money below.

And it doesnt have to be a major renovation, like new windows or a better roof.

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Small, affordable home improvements can make your home more efficient and translate to real savings.

Here are nine ways to save money by improving your houses use of energy.

Dont worry: you could quickly recoup every cent spent on the jacket.

The DOE estimates that a family of four would recoup its initial investmentin just under three years.

Over the heaters 13-year lifespan, expect savings of $5,610.

A smart thermostat solves these problems by automatically adjusting the temperature configs for you.

Ten minutes before you get up in winter, the heat turns on.

You use the heating and cooling only when you actually need them.

Switch Out Light Bulbs

Another bright idea for savings?

Replacing your light bulbs.

Solve this problem with a little pipe insulation: an inexpensive foam tube with a slit down the side.

Just cut it to the required length with scissors and push it onto the pipes.

Each year, youll save 3% to 4% heating your water.

Drowning in Expenses?

Maybe youre scrambling after your car broke down.

Or you got a medical bill you werent expecting.

Or inflation has finally pushed your budget over the edge.

You dont need to go it alone.

When money is tight,these resourcescan help you manage unexpected expenses without stress.

Replace Ceiling Fans

Ceiling fans in general can help you save on heating and cooling costs.

(And be sure to use your energy-efficient light bulbs in the fixtures.)

(The cost is about double if you want professionals to install it.)

It also adds value to your home if you decide to sell in the future.

Thats potentially hundreds of dollars saved for an investment of an afternoon and $30.

Its not just an annoyance a leaky flapper canwaste 180 gallonsof water every week.

you could buy a new flapper valve for under $5, saving you $25 per year.

Heard of These Money-Making Hacks?

Ready to find out how some folks effortlessly earn the big bucks?

Millions of Americans ignorethese easy tipsthat could have you padding your wallet in no time.

Steve Gillman and Tiffany Wendeln Connors also contributed to this post.