On Thursdays, I share my thoughts on Family Finances.
Following on the heals of "Cash for Clunkers", plans are underway for a "Cash for Appliances" program later this year. This article at USA Today provides an overview of the government's plans to emulate the automobile program and use stimulus money to encourage consumers to trade in antiquated and energy hogging appliances for new models with greater efficiency.
How can you tell if your household appliances are weighing down your family budget? Take a look at the following resources:
- Energy Star - Chock full of resources and lists of energy saving appliances, discounts, rebates and more
- ACEEE Consumer Guide - A great resources from the American Council for an Energy Efficient Economy. Check out the individual appliance listings for specific tips to make your current appliances more energy efficient.
- US Department of Energy - Additional energy saving tips and suggestions
Prior to cashing in on government trade in programs and perhaps spending money unnecessarily, spend a few hours this weekend reviewing these tips and making and informed decision.
Home-work for Today:
- Chill Out! Spend 30 minutes cleaning out the contents of your refrigerator, discarding outdated food and wiping down the shelves.
On the Bookshelf:
Billion Dollar Lessons: What You Can Learn from the Most Inexcusable Business Failures of the Last 25 Years
Reading Room Resources:
The Best of the Blogs from this week on today's topic
Are Poor People Lazy?
Kitchen Monki Makes Planning Your Grocery Shopping Easier
Living within Your Means
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