As I often do, I’ve found some useful and/or exciting information this week on the wilds of the World Wide Web. And I’m here to share it with you.

FTC Warning: Watch out for Chinese Drywall Scams

In recent months, you may have heard reports about the dangers of the Chinese drywall used in many homes built between 2003 and 2008. Various government agencies (including the CDC and the EPA) are investigating claims that the drywall may cause serious health problems.

Last week, the FTC issued a warning cautioning consumers of scams involving drywall and home repair, including:

• Drywall testing kits
• Drywall home inspections
• Various quick fixes for problems associated with drywall

Proceed with caution! Send away door-to-door inspectors and investigate on your own time whether you might be at risk.

Save Money: Love Vinegar

The Simple Dollar details 15 little-known uses for common white vinegar, which can be bought inexpensively at the grocery store. My favorites include:

• Fabric softener: toss some in with your next laundry load
• Sunburn healer: apply directly to skin
• Room odor reducer: a few bowls in the open air should clear unpleasant scents
• Rust remover: soak overnight
• Eyeglass cleaner: much cheaper than the fancy stuff

Take a look at how you can save serious cash (and the environment!) by using vinegar for the dirtiest jobs around your home.

Time to Switch to More Efficient Appliances

Don’t let your appliances put you in bankruptcy. Back in October, when the country was still enjoying its Cash for Clunkers high, the deadline for states to submit their guidelines for appliance rebate programs arrived. Now, the government has had time to review and approve guidelines across the nation, which means that, if you’re in the market for new household appliances, it may be a good time to shop.

While requirements, guidelines and rebate amounts vary by state, one rule is consistent: act as fast as you can. The reason? Each state has only a limited amount of money to distribute as rebates, and once it’s gone, it’s gone.

To get started, check out the web site Energysavers.gov, which has rebate information by state. As with the Cash for Clunkers program, this might be a prime opportunity for people who were already planning to get new appliances; otherwise, the rebates may not be significant enough to make investment worthwhile.

 Email This Post