How To Save Money When Starting a Garden

Starting a garden from scratch might seem like an expensive endeavor, but it doesn’t have to be. By utilizing the right resources, you can create a thriving garden while keeping your wallet full. Here is how to save money when starting a garden while ensuring you have everything you need.

Gather Used Tools and Pots

Don’t fall into the marketing hype—you don’t need brand new fancy tools and supplies to start gardening. After all, they’ll be dirty during your first day of using them.

Instead, check out thrift stores for necessary items, scan the sidewalks during bulk trash pick-up week, and use the “free stuff” section of Craigslist to get all that you need.

Get Advice From Friends or Neighbors

One of the best ways to save money when starting a garden is to eliminate unnecessary mistakes. While there are many resources online to help you start growing, none compare to an experienced fellow gardener in your region. This is invaluable because they already know the environment and climate conditions in your area, saving you lots of headaches from trial and error! Chances are, they may even donate some supplies that they don’t use anymore.

Start With Seeds

The only downside to starting from seeds is that you’ll have to wait longer until your plants grow. However, the wait is worth it, and you’ll save so much from not starting with saplings and young plants. While it can be tempting to pick up these plants, the markup on them is incredibly high compared to what you’ll save by starting with seeds.

Propagate Your Older Plants

Once your plants grow up, you can propagate them to begin new plants. This saves you time and money. It’s a lot faster to start a plant from a branch clipping than a seed. All you need is a little bit of soil and a pot or a spot in the earth! Learning to propagate your plants is a valuable skill to have.

Utilize Local Compost

Often, neighborhoods will have some community compost initiative. Search your region for these and pick some up when you can. They are excellent ways to get cheap soil and form connections in the area.

Starting a garden is a fantastic hobby. When done correctly, it can be highly affordable to begin with bountiful payoffs in the following months.

Guest Post - How to Know It's Time to Replace Your Air Conditioner

According to the United States Department of Energy, the estimated lifespan of an air conditioner is anywhere between ten to fifteen years. Typically, a decade after, your air conditioner won't work as efficiently as it used to and might need to be replaced. 

However, service duration is not the only factor you need to consider when replacing your AC unit. For instance, if you notice that your AC has been malfunctioning more than usual, it's another telltale sign to get an AC unit online.

Other signs that indicate it's time to replace your air conditioner unit include:

Sign #01: Unusually high energy bills.

A dramatic and unexplained spike in your home energy bill can be a clear indication of a malfunctioning AC unit. Unless there are significant changes in your home's energy use, your monthly energy bill should be easily predictable. 

If you get an extremely high energy bill, even if there are no drastic changes in your energy usage, one of the first things you should examine is your AC unit. Most modern air conditioners today will require less energy to work efficiently.

If you have a unit that's more than a decade old, it might be a good idea to invest in an energy-efficient one. The excellent news is energy-efficient ones can help you save as much as 40% of your usual cooling energy cost.

Sign #02: Your AC unit produces odd sounds.

If your AC unit produces odd and unusually loud sounds, it can be a foolproof sign you need to have it replaced. Noises like squealing, rattling, and other banging sounds that occur when you turn on your system is not something you should ignore.

When you start to hear unusual sounds, it is recommended that you check with a seasoned technician and have the unit checked right away. Often, noises are caused by belts that have slipped out of place. It can also be caused by a broken motor bearing.

Sign #03: Your unit is blowing warm air.

At times, the temperature can get as high as 90F during summers. The last thing you want is an AC unit that blows warm air. Warm air is often an indicator of a malfunctioning compressor. 

It can also point to an AC unit that's low on refrigerant. In some instances, warm air is blown by the AC unit when the ducts of the unit pull air from the attic space rather than the compressor.

If you notice your unit blowing warm air, call a professional right away to have the unit checked. If the problem cannot be repaired, investing in a new unit is your next option.

Sign #04: You are not getting any cold air.

Not getting any cold air from your AC unit should be a cause of concern. Common causes of this problem include low refrigerant levels, electrical fault, and a possible broken compressor.  

Again, your first recourse should be to have the unit checked by a professional. If the repair required is extensive, replacing the unit is your best option.

Sign #05: There are refrigerant leaks and moisture buildup.

If you notice any moisture buildup or leakage, it is possible that you have a refrigerant leak. Leaks can undermine the efficiency and performance of your unit. It can also cause your annual cooling cost to spike. 

It is crucial to remember that moisture buildup can become a potential health hazard as it can become a breeding ground for mold. That said, if you notice any leaks around your AC, replacing it is deemed ideal.

Sign #06: Your unit uses R-22 Freon.

Freon is no longer produced in many countries, including the United States, since January 1, 2020. If your unit is a decade old (or older), there is a high probability that it uses the R-22 Freon. 

The R-22 refrigerant has been used for car AC systems, central air conditioners, and other refrigeration equipment for ages already. While it is known to efficiently absorb and remove heat from spaces, some studies indicated that it has adverse effects on the environment.

If your current unit uses Freon, it would be best to replace it with a new one if it breaks down. Check out the nameplate on your unit to determine the type of refrigerant used. 

Final Thoughts

An efficient AC unit should enhance your home's comfort and save you money at the same time. If replacing your AC unit is the best option for your case, it would be best to check with an expert to help ensure the unit is installed correctly and everything is working as it should.

About the author

Rachel Watson is the Senior Content Editor of New AC Unit. Aside from heading the company's content marketing strategies, she writes articles about how to stay fit and energy-efficient home living.

Simple Home Additions That Can Make or Break a Sale

There is a lot of work that goes into selling your house, but it is worth it to make a sale that allows you to move into your own dream home. It is best to start with a few simple additions, from an upgraded backsplash to hardwood flooring. You are going to find that these simple additions can increase your property value.

Are you planning to put your home on the market? Here are a few simple home additions that can make or break your sale.

Upgraded Hardware

A simple but effective solution, you can easily increase your property value by upgrading the hardware on your cabinets, drawers, and doors. It never hurts to replace outdated hardware with more modern pieces. You may want to use sleek hardware in a modern, chic or elegant space, or maybe you want to invest in bronze hardware for your industrial, farmhouse, or rustic space.

Updated Backsplash

You can also make a splash by changing the backsplash in your kitchen and bathroom. Choose from a range of tiles for your backsplash, including ceramic, glass, marble and stone. It may be tempting to choose a bold shade or unique pattern, but it is best to keep the design as neutral as possible. This way, you are appealing to various buyers and increasing your chances of a sale.

Hardwood Flooring

Hardwood floors have been a popular feature among homeowners for many years. They add a touch of warmth and coziness to just about any space, but hardwood floors also keep the house cool during the warmer months. If you currently have carpet in your home, now is a good time to think about hardwood flooring. If you already have hardwood floors, you may want to have them refinished before putting your home on the market.

New Front Door

First impressions are very important when selling your home, which is why it is recommended to boost your curb appeal. One way to boost your curb appeal is to upgrade your front door. This can be as simple as changing the hardware and adding a fresh coat of paint, or you can go as far as replacing the door altogether. You may want to consider new house numbers as well.

Finished Basement

You may be wondering, What else can I do to sell my house? If you are looking to go bigger than a simple upgrade, look into adding a finished basement to your home. If your basement is already finished, now is a good time to redecorate this space. Be sure to use a neutral palette with basic furniture to show your buyers that it can be used as a bedroom, lounge, or home office.

Whether you are upgrading the hardware in your kitchen or turning the basement into a spare bedroom, the above home additions are helpful in selling your house.

Guest Post - Preventing Water Damage When Surrounded by Water

The idea of living with a lake view or even being able to look out at the ocean from your house sounds peaceful and serene. There are many mental and physical health benefits to living by the water (which is why most waterfront properties cost a pretty penny!). 

But, waterfront homes – especially those in hot and humid areas – can be more susceptible to water damage. 

While that shouldn’t deter you from moving to your dream house, there are some things you should keep in mind when it comes to preventing water damage. It might take a bit of extra effort to keep your property in top shape, but it’s well worth it when you know what to look for and the right steps to take. 

Let’s take a look at what you should expect when you consider buying a property surrounded by water, and how you can make sure your home stays free of damage. 

Understanding the Risks

There are many benefits to living on the water that go far beyond your health. Investment and recreational opportunities can earn you a bit of extra income, and if you’re a naturally creative person, it’s a great way to feel inspired and rejuvenated each day. 

But, you can’t just consider the benefits when you’re looking at a waterfront property. Before you take the plunge, consider some of the possible “cons”, including: 

• Higher insurance rates

• Hidden costs (boat fees, rural utility fees)

• High sewer costs

• Bulkhead maintenance 

One of the best things you can do before you buy a property by the water is to make multiple visits. Hire a home inspector to assess any existing damage and to let you know the potential risks, based on the location. It’s also a good idea to research the history of the house. Has it experienced any damage before? If it’s older, what will you need to do to protect it from water, heat, and humidity? 

It might sound like a lot of work and stress to prepare yourself for a potential waterfront home. But, knowing what to expect can offer you peace of mind and keep you from feeling overwhelmed when you have some extra maintenance to take care of. 

Staying On Top of Problems

Water damage tends to get worse over time when it isn’t taken care of. Unfortunately, many people don’t recognize any problems until it’s “too late” because they don’t always know what to look for. 

When you live on a waterfront property, understanding the signs of water damage will make it easier to catch problems early on. Some of the most common red flags include: 

• Sagging ceilings and walls

• Paint peeling from the walls

• Musty odors

• Water lines or discoloration on ceilings and walls

Leaks are one of the biggest culprits of water damage. Being able to detect potential leaks, especially in your walls, is another proactive way to stop water damage before it becomes a disaster. Thankfully, detecting leaks is easier than ever thanks to modern technology. There are specific leak-detection devices you can use to “scan” your walls and pipes. These devices use a special microphone that will allow you to hear the leaks and know where the source is coming from. 

If you do see any water damage in your home or you’re able to detect a leak, DIYing the problem or calling a professional plumber is crucial. Don’t wait for things to get worse, because they will – quickly!

Living in a place where you’re surrounded by water could be the best decision you ever make. But, don’t let your dream house become a nightmare by ignoring the potential risks of water damage. By staying on top of things, you can prevent damage, enjoy your home, and soak in the tranquility of the water surrounding your property. 

Author Bio: Noah Rue is a freelance writer.