What not to skimp on….
I am all for saving money and being a frugal consumer. However, I firmly believe there are some things that you should spend money on because in the long run it could come back and bite you!
1. Regular oil changes for your car. A car is a big ticket item, and like any mechanical item, it has to be maintained. Most cars recommend regular oil changes at 3000 miles, but you can actually go a bit longer. I usually get mine changed around 5000 miles, but never past that. Also, it is good to stick with the same oil, so try and go to the same place or ask for the same oil each time.
2. Replace your intake air filter for the air conditioner of your house. Many people forget to do this, but it is very important. If your filter is dirty, it is preventing air from getting to your air compressor and making your air conditioner work harder. It is a low cost maintenance option that is a must.
3. Servicing your home air conditioner and heating system annually or bi-annually. Your air conditioner cools the air in your house with freon, and if this is low, your air conditioner is working harder than it should be. Plus, your air conditioner guy will clean the outside unit, and this is important. Your heating unit should also be inspected regularly, especially if it is a gas unit, to check for any leaks. Make sure and do this at least every 2 years. It will cost you about $200, but that is money well spent.
4. Replace the tires on your car if they are worn. I know this is a big ticket item, but bad tread on your tires can be dangerous, particularly on wet streets. An accident and your safety are more important than $500. If you are unsure if you need tires there is a simple test called the penny test. Take a penny and turn the side which has Abe Lincoln’s head where you can see it. Place it head down in the grove of your tires where the tread is. If you do not cover any of Abe’s head, it is time for new tires.
5. Annual physical exams at your doctor. A lot of folks only go to the doctor when they are sick, but wellness visits are very important, especially as you get older. If you have insurance, there is no reason not to go. The doctor can examine you and take a blood sample to check for all sorts of routine things. This is the only body you have, and catching any problem early is very important. Wellness visits can help you do that.
I am all for saving money and being a frugal consumer. However, I firmly believe there are some things that you should spend money on because in the long run it could come back and bite you!
1. Regular oil changes for your car. A car is a big ticket item, and like any mechanical item, it has to be maintained. Most cars recommend regular oil changes at 3000 miles, but you can actually go a bit longer. I usually get mine changed around 5000 miles, but never past that. Also, it is good to stick with the same oil, so try and go to the same place or ask for the same oil each time.
2. Replace your intake air filter for the air conditioner of your house. Many people forget to do this, but it is very important. If your filter is dirty, it is preventing air from getting to your air compressor and making your air conditioner work harder. It is a low cost maintenance option that is a must.
3. Servicing your home air conditioner and heating system annually or bi-annually. Your air conditioner cools the air in your house with freon, and if this is low, your air conditioner is working harder than it should be. Plus, your air conditioner guy will clean the outside unit, and this is important. Your heating unit should also be inspected regularly, especially if it is a gas unit, to check for any leaks. Make sure and do this at least every 2 years. It will cost you about $200, but that is money well spent.
4. Replace the tires on your car if they are worn. I know this is a big ticket item, but bad tread on your tires can be dangerous, particularly on wet streets. An accident and your safety are more important than $500. If you are unsure if you need tires there is a simple test called the penny test. Take a penny and turn the side which has Abe Lincoln’s head where you can see it. Place it head down in the grove of your tires where the tread is. If you do not cover any of Abe’s head, it is time for new tires.
5. Annual physical exams at your doctor. A lot of folks only go to the doctor when they are sick, but wellness visits are very important, especially as you get older. If you have insurance, there is no reason not to go. The doctor can examine you and take a blood sample to check for all sorts of routine things. This is the only body you have, and catching any problem early is very important. Wellness visits can help you do that.