With the last days of winter upon us , it’s time to start thinking about spring cleaning. The immediate benefits of cleaning and freshening your home after a long winter spent indoors are obvious. What you might not realize about this annual ritual is that spring cleaning helps you save money in the coming warm weather months.
Take a look at how spring cleaning helps you save:
Clean the Vacuum Cleaner
You’ll need it to be in top shape for several other spring cleaning tasks and keeping it clean and well-maintained will help it last longer, so you won’t have to buy a new one every few years. Simply wipe the inside and outside of the canister, use an old comb or brush to remove string and hair from the rollers and remove any clumps stuck in the hoses and cleaning attachments. Be sure to check belts for wear and tear and replace if needed. Now you’re ready to move on to…
Clean Refrigerator Coils
Probably the most labor-intensive of the money-saving spring cleaning projects, but you’ll be glad you did it when you see the savings on your next electric bill. Move the refrigerator away from the wall and unplug it. Locate the coils and vacuum away the dust; if they still look grungy, wipe down with soap and water. Let coils dry completely – plug fridge in and move back into position.
Change Air Conditioner Filter
You can save up to 15% on home cooling costs just by ensuring you’re A/C filter is clean. A clean filter allows your air conditioner to run more efficiently, plus it can more effectively filter out pollen and dust which can help minimize seasonal allergy symptoms. Clean or replace your home’s air filter every month for maximum efficiency.
Clean Inside the Dishwasher
This is another spring cleaning task you might not have considered, but it can really make a difference in your dishwasher’s efficiency, effectiveness and longevity. Unplug the unit, then clean all inside surfaces with a mixture of vinegar and water. Use an old toothbrush to clean any buildup from the spinning arms and vents, and inspect and wipe the door seal to prevent leaks.
Pay Attention to Details
They may seem small, but these tricks can add up to savings on utilities and home repair:
- Keep light bulbs and lamp shades dust free for maximum light output
- Vacuum sliding window and door tracks to help ensure tight seals
- Clean the dryer’s lint filter after every load to shorten drying time
Be sure to check out these cheap and easy green cleaning tricks, too.
