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How Long Vinyl and Laminate Floors Really Last?

ByStan S.

HOME BUYERS – To get the best exclusive listings visit www.vreg.ca and go to “EXCLUSIVE DEALS”

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Key Takeaways

  • Vinyl and laminate floors are often misunderstood, but with the right product choice and installation, they can be durable and long-lasting.
  • The biggest risks to these floors are mildew and mold, not the materials themselves.
  • Proper care and maintenance extend their lifespan well beyond the rumored five years, often lasting up to two decades.

You might have seen people advocating against using vinyl and laminate flooring in high-humidity rooms. Content creators have gone viral with images of mold and mildew hiding beneath their feet and warning of the health risks they pose. Rumor has it that the popular and cost-effective vinyl or laminate floors actually come with a higher price tag than anticipated, because you’ll have to replace them every five years.

But is this true, or are these creators just looking for clicks? We wanted to get to the truth of the matter, so we brought those rumors to two laminate and engineered flooring specialists. Neel Bradham, CEO of Parador, and Rotem Eylor, CEO of Republic Floor, are sharing everything you need to know about these affordable flooring options and busting a few of the myths floating around.

Waterproof vs. Water-Resistant

Did you know there’s not just one type of vinyl and laminate? These materials come in a variety of build-ups with different technical specifications. Though they can have a similar appearance and function, vinyl and laminate are two very different materials in terms of structure, durability, and water resistance.

“A common misconception is that all types of vinyl and laminate flooring are waterproof,” Eylor says. “There is a difference between waterproof and water-resistant, and they handle humidity differently with varying resistance levels.” Waterproof materials are impervious to water, providing a complete barrier, while water-resistant materials only resist water penetration to a certain degree before the water seeps through.

“Vinyl, particularly solid vinyl, is completely waterproof, making it an ideal choice for areas with high moisture exposure, such as kitchens and bathrooms,” Bradham says. “Its robust composition also makes it highly durable and easy to maintain.” As a general rule, vinyl made of wood plastic composite (WPC) and stone-plastic composite core (SPC) is waterproof, whereas luxury vinyl plank (LVP) and PVC vinyl are only water-resistant.

Laminate is also typically water-resistant, with different products offering varying levels of resistance. Basic ranges are typically water-resistant for up to 24 hours in standing water, while other laminates extend that resistance to 48 hours. “When choosing between vinyl and laminate, the decision should always be based on the specific product’s technical specifications and the room’s conditions,” Bradham says. “No single solution works universally across all scenarios.”

Curbing the Risk of Mold and Mildew

The growth of mold and mildew under vinyl and laminate flooring depends on various factors, from the product type to the installation quality. “Solid vinyl and vinyl with SPC-core board, for instance, has no tendency towards mold due to its non-porous nature,” Bradham says. “The key risk is water penetrating beneath the floor, where mold could thrive if left unchecked.”

To prevent this, the experts recommend using a high-quality moisture barrier or underlay under the floor during installation and ensuring proper sealing around the edges. They also recommend keeping high-humidity areas well-ventilated and maintaining an appropriate indoor humidity level—within the range of 35-60%—to reduce the risk of water accumulating and mold building up under the floor.

When to Actually Replace Your Vinyl and Laminate Floor

According to Eylor and Bradham, the five-year-replacement rumor is false. “If properly installed and maintained, vinyl and laminate floors should last between 10 and 20 years, even in high-humidity areas,” Eylor says. Annual inspections, particularly in wet rooms, are recommended to check for signs of warping, swelling, odor, and water damage. For homeowners with existing vinyl or laminate, there’s likely no need for immediate replacement if there are no signs of water ingress. However, if you do spot signs of damage or water ingress, it may be time to consider replacing the floor with a more suitable, water-resistant product, like solid vinyl, WPC, or SPC.

Look after your floor, and it will look after you. “Practice preventative maintenance, particularly with water-resistant vinyl and laminate floors,” Eylor suggests. Get into the habit of cleaning up splashes and spilled liquids promptly to prevent them from absorbing into the surface, and avoid drenching the floor with excessive amounts of water when cleaning. “In humid areas, use fans, open windows, or leave doors open to reduce indoor humidity.”

Choose your vinyl or laminate flooring wisely by researching the product’s technical specifications and ensuring it is suitable for the designated space and its use. This, combined with proper installation, should result in a healthy, long-lasting, and cost-effective floor you’re proud of.

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    Can You Paint the Side of a Neighbors Fence That Faces Your Yard?

    ByStan S.

    Credit: Getty Images / Vitalii Petrushenko Of all the costly outdoor groundskeeping on the to-do list, refreshing a fence might seem like light work. However, if it separates your property from the one next door, updating it with a fresh coat of paint or stain might not be so straightforward. Although changing the part that faces your house is tempting, you must determine who actually owns the fence and whether you have the legal or neighborly right to paint it. Altering a shared fence without permission can lead to legal disputes, homeowner association (HOA) penalties, and unpleasant interactions with neighbors. Luckily, fence ownership debates can be resolved amicably, but there’s an art to negotiating shared costs and exploring alternatives to maintain the peace. Determine Who Owns the Fence Determining who owns a fence that divides two properties isn’t always straightforward. Jeff Lichtenstein, CEO and broker at Echo Fine Properties, says it depends on each state and county’s rules as well as whether you belong to an HOA. A land surveyor or a legal agreement might resolve the issue. Not every fence is positioned exactly along property lines. If the fence is on just one owner’s land, then that owner owns it. What if you hate the way it looks facing your property? “Even if it’s facing your property, it’s no different than a neighbor’s blue house facing your property,” Lichtenstein says. “The side of the house is what you see, and the owner doesn’t usually see it. Still, you can’t paint it whatever color you wish.” Property surveys are often the most reliable way to determine where your land ends and your neighbor’s begins. In neighborhoods without HOA regulations or clear agreements, it’s best to obtain explicit permission before undertaking any action that might alter a structure your neighbor legally owns. If you can’t stand the condition or color of the fence facing your home, then you need to start a delicate negotiation. Related Negotiate with Your Neighbor Zach Peyton, brand president of Superior Fence & Rail, jokingly references the famous Robert Frost line, “Good fences make good neighbors, right?” Wrong. He says that a few considerations make all the difference. There may be cases when ownership can’t be easily established because neither neighbor has the original paperwork or the ability to schedule a property boundary survey. This may happen if neighbors had disputes in the past, if the land is rural or farmland, or if either property is part of an estate sale. In any case, if one neighbor paid for the original fence outright, that generally indicates ownership of the fence. However, if costs are shared or unclear, open and honest communication can help prevent future conflict. Peyton outlines a common scenario: “Mr. Smith wants to replace the fence during a larger backyard renovation, but Mrs. Jones, who technically owns it, doesn’t have the budget for it right now. If Mr. Smith is eager to proceed and has permission from the fence owner, he may opt to take on the full financial burden of replacing the fence. In that case, the new fence would belong to Mr. Smith.” In other words, if your half of the fence bothers, you might have to take on 100% of the responsibility for a fix that serves both you and the neighbor. Who Pays for the Paint Job? Cost-sharing can be a delicate issue. According to Lichtenstein, the simple rule of thumb is: “If you really want something, offer to pay for the entire job.” He explains that this approach usually removes friction, especially if the neighbor isn’t particularly concerned with aesthetics. “They get a benefit out of it, but it doesn’t require them to invest.” On the flip side, painting a fence without permission—even if you foot the bill—can backfire. Plain wooden fences may require a simple DIY coat of paint, but painting wrought iron, lattice, or brick fencing could damage the material irreversibly. Lichtenstein warns that homeowners who alter a fence without consent risk more than just neighborly tension. “You could be fined by the HOA, sued by your neighbor, and have legal penalties and judgments against you,” he says. What starts as a cosmetic improvement could become an expensive legal issue if the fence is ruined or the installation somehow affects your neighbor’s yard or lawn. Best Practices and Fence Alternatives “I tell every homeowner we know to buy their new neighbors a cookie cake and introduce yourself,” Lichtenstein says. While it may sound like a small gesture, taking the time to talk, explain your reasons, and ask questions can go a long way toward maintaining a collaborative approach. If you and your neighbor can’t agree, sometimes the best solution is to leave the fence as is. Create a new kind of boundary. Hedges, tall grasses, and trellises with climbing plants can provide privacy without encroaching on shared structures. “With hedges, it’s more common that you take care of your side and they, theirs,” Lichtenstein says, which can help avoid future fence disputes. If you have outdoor pets to protect, you may need to create other barriers on your side of the property line. Hardscaping or a secondary fence might be a suitable alternative. Remember, if the fence condition poses a hazard to your health—think broken slats, exposed sharp metal, or chipping toxic paint—take it up with your HOA or municipality to broker a long-term remedy.

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    Dont Skip This Moving Day Step. What to Clean Before Handing Over the Keys

    ByStan S.

    Moving out of your home kicks off a laundry list of to-do items. One of the tasks that might cross your mind is finding out who is responsible for cleaning your home when you move out. Is it expected or required? Who should pay? We reached out to experts on the best practices for cleaning when moving out of a home or rental property.  Kam Zinsser is a real estate agent with Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Senter Realtors. Svetlana Choi is a broker and luxury property specialist at Coldwell Banker Warburg. Michael Weiner is a real estate salesperson at Coldwell Banker Warburg. Gerard Splendore is a licensed real estate broker with Coldwell Banker Warburg. Check Your Contract  In some cases, cleaning is specified in your sales contract, in which case you’re obligated to comply. Most contracts for home sales include boilerplate language regarding the buyer’s obligation to clean and remove all belongings from the home before the sale. Renters often have requirements in their leases relating to cleaning before they move out. “Although it may not be contractual, it is more of a courtesy to the buyer,” says Kam Zinsser, a real estate agent with Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Senter Realtors.  “When purchasing a home, most contracts stipulate that the premises be broom-swept,” says broker Svetlana Choi of Coldwell Banker Warburg. “So, it isn’t necessary for a seller to do a thorough cleaning. However, it can make a real difference, particularly if it’s a higher-priced property.” “I had a client who was buying a studio in the Gramercy area of NYC and specifically requested that the mildew, which was severe, be cleaned from the bathroom,” says broker Gerard Splendore of Coldwell Banker Warburg. “At the walk-through, the day prior to closing, the mildew was untouched. The seller insisted that it had been cleaned that night, but no evidence or pictures were presented. I left the closing, and the bathroom was untouched, so the buyer was awarded a $1500 cleaning allowance off the price of the sale.” Benefits of Cleaning a Home Before Moving Choi adds that the choice to have a properly cleaned home can be the tipping point in a sale. “I had a walk-through where the buyer was having doubts about whether the apartment was the right choice for her family,” she says. “Because the seller didn’t want to jeopardize the transaction, she immediately hired a cleaning service, and I reported this to my buyer. In the end, she was happy and then focused on renovating her home.” “A cleaner home helps with a smoother walk-through and sets a positive tone for the closing process,” —Kay Zinsser, Real Estate Agent As Zinsser stated, cleaning your home is typically a courtesy to the new buyer unless otherwise stipulated in your contract. “General cleaning of the floors and surfaces as well as removing all personal belongings is very important,” Zinsser says. “Deep cleaning the kitchen appliances, inside the cabinets, bathrooms, and carpet is always nice.”  In some cases, the buyer will require the seller to pay for a deep clean before move-in. In other cases, the buyer will take the cleaning into their own hands, either to organize and pay for it or to do the dirty work themselves to save money.  Whether you’re cleaning as a courtesy or because you want good karma, most agents agree it’s a smart move.  “Leaving a home clean on departure is nearly always a good idea,” says agent Michael Weiner of Coldwell Banker Warburg. “For instance, if it’s a sale, the new owners are more likely to return items that may have been left accidentally by the sellers at the time of the close; and in general, renters want to be able to keep a good recommendation from a prior landlord as a reference for a future one.” What You Should Clean When Selling a Home  Zinsser suggests cleaning commonly overlooked areas in your home, including the inside of your fridge, oven, and microwave. Wiping down baseboards, trims, ceiling fans, and vent and air return covers is also a good idea. Window ledges and blinds also get dusty. Finally, check behind the toilet for forgotten grime.  “Prioritizing these areas, whether you are a renter or a homeowner, goes a long way and makes a difference,” Zinsser says. “As the homeowner, cleaning the home and paying attention to details is largely a goodwill gesture.” Focus on the main living areas to start. “Primary areas such as living rooms and bedrooms, which are central to the home, are the top cleaning priority and are almost impossible to overlook,” Weiner says. “Less-used areas, such as a basement, attic, or closet, are sometimes overlooked because items stored there are often not everyday ones. Overlooked—or perhaps simply insufficiently cleaned—are bathrooms, which are places most people hate to clean.” While you don’t have to clean, it is a nice gesture and one you would appreciate if the roles were reversed. “One of my sellers said to me, ‘They sought to present the home as they would wish to receive it,’” Zinsser said. “This has always stuck with me!” What You Should Clean When Leaving an Apartment  When it comes to cleaning an apartment or home rental, the rules are typically much more rigid and spelled out in the leasing documents. They often state that you must leave the space empty and broom-cleaned or swept. “For homeowners, cleaning is rarely a

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    The Best Thermostat Setting for a Heat Wave. How to Stay Cool Without Overworking Your AC

    ByStan S.

    When extreme heat hits, it’s tempting to crank the air conditioning as low as it will go. But while that might offer short-term relief, it can lead to sky-high energy bills and put unnecessary strain on your cooling system. So, what temperature should you set your thermostat to during a heat wave? We spoke with industry experts and rounded up smart strategies to help you stay safe, comfortable, and energy-efficient when temperatures soar. What to Set Your Thermostat to During a Heat Wave According to energy experts and the U.S. Department of Energy, the sweet spot is 78°F (26°C) when you’re home and need cooling. If you can, bump it up to 82°F when you’re sleeping and 85°F when you’re away. These settings help reduce the load on your AC, which can prevent breakdowns during critical times, and keep energy bills from skyrocketing. When to Adjust Your Thermostat Lower “Seventy-eight degrees creates the optimal balance between comfort and efficiency. Seventy-eight degrees may be warm for many people, but it is the standard recommendation to stay comfortable and be efficient during the summer months,” says Lane Dixon, Vice President of Operations at Aire Serv. If you have vulnerable household members, like infants, older adults, or pets, you may need to keep the thermostat slightly cooler. In these cases, 76°F may offer a more comfortable balance between safety and savings. It’s also helpful to use smart thermostats that learn your preferences and adjust automatically, especially during peak demand times. Related What to Do if Your AC Can’t Keep Up Keeping your air conditioner running smoothly during extreme heat isn’t just about comfort—it can help you avoid breakdowns and surprise repair bills. John McGaughey, vice president of sales at AUX AIR USA, shares several practical ways homeowners can help their cooling systems perform at their best this summer. Replace Your Air Filter Regularly “A dirty filter is one of the most common reasons systems underperform,” McGaughey explains. He advises checking the filter every month during heavy use and replacing it as needed (usually every one to three months.) Keep the Sunlight Out Direct sun exposure, especially on south- and west-facing windows, can dramatically increase indoor temperatures. To prevent excess sun from streaming through windows, consider adding blackout or dark-colored curtains and blinds. Time Your Appliance Use Wisely Large household appliances, like ovens, stovetops, and dryers, can heat up your living space fast. Use these in the early mornings or evenings when outdoor temperatures are lower. Use Fans to Improve Comfort Ceiling or box fans don’t cool the air, but they can help you feel cooler by circulating air across your skin and aiding in evaporation. Check Your Outdoor AC Unit The outdoor unit expels the heat your AC system pulls from inside. Keeping the area clear and occasionally rinsing the unit with a hose (while it’s off) can go a long way in improving efficiency. If none of these steps help, it may be time to call in an HVAC technician, especially if you hear unusual noises, smell musty odors, or see ice buildup on your system. DIY AC Fixes Before you call in the pros, try these expert-backed maintenance tips that can improve your air conditioner’s performance—and might even help you avoid a costly repair visit, according to JustAnswer HVAC Expert Randy Huckstadt. Rinse your condenser coil. The HVAC expert first addresses rinsing your condenser coil with fresh water. “Dirty condensers do not allow you to reject the heat from inside the house that the refrigerant absorbed in the evaporator,” he explains. Rinse your evaporator coil. If you can safely access it, he recommends rinsing the evaporator coil as well. He says that you cannot absorb the heat in the house if your coil is dirty. Replace your air filter. Plugged air filters prevent quality airflow, which reduces the capacity of the AC system. Swapping in a clean filter is one of the easiest ways to keep your system working properly. And if your condenser fan suddenly stops working, don’t panic—Huckstadt offers a clever temporary fix. He says you can use a small shower sprinkler to spray the condenser until a repair tech arrives. Water will take the place of a failed condenser fan.

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    Deck Trends That Will Transform Your Backyard

    ByStan S.

    With summer approaching, it’s time to consider your outdoor spaces, including your deck. You could go the traditional route of staining and sealing it for a fresh look, or take advice from the experts on the top 2025 trends for decks.  “Needing to maximize their outdoor retreat, homeowners are sketching out new deck designs that combine multi-purpose spaces, environmentally friendly materials, integrated outdoor kitchens and fire features, smart technology, and biophilic design features that bring nature closer into the living area,” says Mark Lumpkin of short-term rental renovation company STR Cribs. Discover the best deck trends for 2025 that will help you host summer gatherings in your own backyard.  1. Wider Boards If you’re looking to build a new deck or replace your home’s decking, opt for a wider board for a more updated and modern look.  “Standard 5.5-inch boards are stepping aside as homeowners increasingly choose wide-width boards for their decks in 2025,” says Amanda Cimaglia, VP of TimberTech. “These wider 7.25-inch boards not only offer a sleek, contemporary aesthetic but also create seamless, uncluttered surfaces that mimic high-end indoor flooring trends, resulting in a design-forward, polished appearance that feels expansive and upscale.”  While you’re at it, consider laying your boards in a pattern for a cool effect. “Design-savvy homeowners are borrowing from indoor flooring innovations, bringing rich bespoke layouts like chevron, herringbone, and pinstripes to their outdoor spaces,” Cimaglia adds. “These artistic patterns elevate a simple deck into a statement piece that blends functionality with personality.” 2. Multi-Level Decks Have an existing deck, but want to level up? Consider building a second story.   “Multi-level deck designs will continue gaining momentum as homeowners seek to create zones tailored to specific activities,” Cimaglia says. “For example, an upper dining area might transition to a mid-level lounging deck before stepping down into a firepit space or garden. These layers provide a sense of flow and dimension, giving outdoor spaces a dynamic, purpose-driven layout.” As you design your deck, designate a function for each level. Cimaglia suggests making the upper area a dining space and the lower level a cozy lounge, for example. “Additions like connecting staircases with integrated lighting or plant borders can enhance flow and unify the space. Using consistent materials and complementary finishes across levels can help maintain visual harmony,” Cimaglia adds.  You can also opt for different materials to establish different zones.  “Multi-level decks are in, as they help homeowners define areas for separate activities, like dining, lounging, and socializing,” Lumpkin says. “A common way to do this is to use different flooring materials or introduce slight elevation changes to define each zone without breaking the overall flow.” These new multi-level and tiered decks aren’t just functional, they’re beautiful too. “They can also provide better views of the property and surrounding landscape,” says Sue Kim, director of color marketing for Cabot.  3. Sustainable Features In 2025, deck designs are increasingly incorporating sustainable features. “Eco-conscious homeowners are gravitating toward decking options that include high percentages of recycled materials,” Cimaglia says.  TimberTech offers boards made with up to 85% recycled content, including reclaimed wood fibers and recycled plastic. “These materials deliver long-lasting performance while minimizing environmental impact,” she adds.  Cimaglia says that composite and PVC decking remain frontrunners even in 2025 because they’re long-lasting and low-maintenance options that look like real wood.  4. Comfortable Outdoor Furniture “Stiff, uncomfortable outdoor chairs are a thing of the past,” says Sergey Mashkov, designer and sales manager at Sheds Unlimited. “This year, plush sectionals, weather-resistant lounge chairs, and modular furniture sets are on the rise. Homeowners seek spaces that feel just as cozy as their indoor living rooms, complete with outdoor rugs, throw pillows, and built-in firepits.” As you shop, look for sectionals and chairs that are easy to move and rearrange.  “The outdoor furniture trends lean toward modular, reconfigurable furniture that provides comfort as well as flexibility, and the decor trends include sustainable materials, bright textiles, and ambient lighting all working together to create an inviting, cohesive space,” Lumpkin says. “In one example, a client interspersed weatherproof cushions accented with reclaimed wood and set LED fixtures to create a cohesive theme that elevated the personality of the deck—an unconventional approach that dramatically upgraded the total vibe.” Another trend for deck furniture this year is built-in seating. “Homeowners are choosing decks with integrated benches for additional seating, planters for natural touches, and even discreet storage compartments to keep spaces tidy,” Cimaglia says. “Features like these add structure and organization while giving back valuable square footage, perfect for entertaining or everyday relaxation.”  5. Smart Technology Smart tech makes outdoor entertaining easy. “Smart technology has made its way to decks, too, in the form of discreet, energy-efficient options,” Lumpkin says. “Think app-controlled LED lighting, wireless outdoor sound systems, and integrated heating elements all working to ensure your comfort without sabotaging the aesthetics.” You can kill two birds with one stone by choosing moody lighting options that enhance safety around your deck and sync easily with your home’s smart systems.  “Homeowners can install smart LED fixtures that can be controlled via smartphone apps or voice assistants. This allows for customizable brightness, color, and scheduling,” says Kevin Lenhart, design director at Yardzen.   Lenhart also suggests smart heating features that allow homeowners to use their outdoor spaces even in the chillier months. Whatever you choose, smart home technology makes it easy.  “If you’re going to dabble in smart tech features, I advise going all the

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    New 13,000 sq. ft. off-leash dog area now open in Vancouver park.

    Bymichael

    Vancouver dog lovers and their pups now have a new place to run around after the opening of a new off-leash area in South Cambie. The City unveiled the nearly 13,000 sq. ft. off-leash area in Heather Park, located at the southeast corner of West 18th Avenue and Willow Street. According to Park Board Chair Laura Christensen, the new off-leash area is another milestone in the City’s commitment to increasing dog-friendly spaces in Vancouver. Isabelle Vauclair “Our People, Parks and Dogs Strategy highlights the importance of building a varied network of off-leash areas throughout the city that meet the needs of all park users, including those with and without dogs,” said Christensen in a release. “We’re thrilled to welcome Vancouver’s four-legged community and their owners to Heather Park.” Heather Park’s off-leash area features a large open space and a series of agility features, including hurdles, stepping stones, and a ramp. Additional seating for owners and a drinking fountain and dog bowl have been added for two- and four-legged visitors. Isabelle Vauclair The design for the South Cambie off-leash area was created using feedback from over 1,300 people who took part in two rounds of public engagement. Heather Park is one of three new off-leash dog areas proposed for Vancouver parks. Work is expected to be completed this summer at a similar area at Granville Park in Fairview, and a renewal and expansion of Emery Barnes Park’s off-leash area is slated for completion around the same time.

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    5 Summer Habits That Might Be Spiking Your Utility Bills (and What to Do Instead)

    ByStan S.

    Credit: Getty Images / StockSeller_ukr Summer weather is ideal for enjoying the pool, the yard, and the sun, but after being outside for a few hours, it can also be a great relief to step into an air-conditioned home. These hot temperatures often cause many homeowners to adopt certain habits that are more wasteful than helpful. In an attempt to escape the heat, keep the house cool, and maintain the lushness of the yard, it can be all too tempting to try things that actually increase utility bills, costing you more in the long run for minimal relief. Use this guide to discover what summer habits secretly spike utility bills and what to do instead. Scott Levene is the vice president of Levco, a fuel and HVAC solutions company. He is also a licensed HVAC professional with nearly 20 years of experience. Read on to discover the ways you might be increasing your monthly bills without even realizing. 1. Cooling Unused Areas of the House Air conditioners help to cool down the home, but when you aren’t actively using specific rooms, there is no need to keep the doors open to these areas of the home. Central air conditioning systems might still provide some cooling to these areas through the ductwork, but ultimately, the cooling capabilities will be more focused in the central areas of the home where the thermostat is typically located. Closing certain doors allows the temperature to drop more effectively in the areas you are actually using, while saving energy. This particular trick works incredibly well for window and standing air conditioners, since their output is already focused in a single area of the home. 2. Running Fans 24/7 Fans can help move cool air throughout the home and provide direct relief to individuals who are near the fan. However, fans do not actually cool down the house, and their continuous operation can even add heat to the house. “A common habit is leaving fans on in empty rooms. Fans cool people, not rooms, so leaving them on when no one’s around just adds to the electric bill without any benefits,” says Scott Levene, vice president of Levco and licensed HVAC professional. 3. Frequent Lawn Watering Watering the lawn frequently might keep the grass looking lush and the gardens blooming nicely, but it is also a huge use of water that will drastically increase the cost of your water bill throughout the summer. In some areas, watering the lawn and yard might even be against local regulations due to droughts and water conservation efforts. Instead, it’s best to consider possible alternatives that can avoid waste and help save on your water bill. 4. Running the Air Conditioner with the Windows or Doors Open Many homeowners know to turn off the air conditioner if they are opening a window or door. However, this same knowledge might not be as obvious to other people living in the home, like children or teenagers. Additionally, some adults might open the windows on cooler evenings to bring in fresh air, but then forget to turn the AC off, which increases energy waste and leads to higher energy bills. 5. Setting the Thermostat Temperature Too Low Unfortunately, just because you turn the thermostat temperature as low as possible, this does not increase the speed at which the home will be cooled, though this doesn’t stop many homeowners from trying year after year. “The most common habit we see is turning the thermostat down too low, thinking it will cool the house faster. Setting the thermostat to 65°F instead of 75°F doesn’t make it work any faster; it just makes the system run longer and work harder, which drives up utility bills,” explains Levene. How Do These Habits Burn Your Budget? Deciding to put a stop to these habits and making the switch to a more budget-friendly alternative will help keep more money in your wallet and reduce waste. “The examples listed might only cost a few extra bucks a day, but that adds up over time,” Levene says. “Additionally, the extra strain on the HVAC system causes faster wear and tear, which can shorten the lifespan of the equipment. Frequent repairs or premature replacement costs are a major expense.” Related 7 Budget-Friendly Alternatives to Beat the Heat The more unnecessary warm-weather habits you tend to do each year, the higher the cost of your energy bills and the larger your ecological footprint, which is reflected in water and energy waste. Instead, work toward adopting budget-friendly habits that can both keep you cool and reduce your spending this summer season. 1. Use a Programmable Thermostat When you have a regular thermostat, it’s your responsibility to change the temperature throughout the day and when you leave the home. “Set your thermostat to a reasonable temperature. We recommend 76°F to 78°F when you’re home and 78°F to 80°F when you’re away,” Levene says. With a programmable thermostat, you can simply set a specific schedule based on when you leave for work, when you typically go to sleep, and when you wake, so you can reduce energy waste without even thinking about it. 2. Set Up a Rain Barrel Constantly watering the lawn is a huge waste of water, and it can quickly add up on your water bill. Instead, use one or more rain barrels in the yard to catch and collect rain. The collected water

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