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Some workers who are paid every two weeks may occasionally receive three paychecks in one month instead of the usual two
It can be tempting to treat that extra paycheck like free money, but it is still part of your regular salary. Financial experts often recommend using it to pay down high-interest credit card debt, add to emergency savings or help cover a planned expense such as a vacation
But if your finances are in good shape, you might consider using part of the money for a technology upgrade that improves your home, saves money or helps prevent an expensive emergency
Here are four practical options
If your internet connection is strong in one room but unreliable in another, a mesh Wi-Fi system may be a worthwhile upgrade
A traditional Wi-Fi router sends the signal from one location. Walls, floors and distance can weaken that signal, especially in larger or multistory homes
A mesh Wi-Fi system uses a main unit connected to your internet modem, along with additional units placed around the house. Together, they create one larger wireless network
That can improve coverage in bedrooms, home offices, basements and outdoor areas. It can be especially helpful in homes where several people are streaming video, gaming or working online at the same time
Buying your own equipment may also help you avoid paying your internet provider a monthly equipment rental fee. Before replacing the provider’s equipment, check whether your service requires a compatible modem or other device
Heating and air conditioning make up a large portion of many household utility bills. A smart thermostat can help reduce wasted energy
Smart thermostats can be programmed to use less heating or cooling while no one is home. Many can also be controlled from a smartphone, allowing you to adjust the temperature from work, while traveling or before returning home
Some models can use your phone’s location to recognize when you leave and begin adjusting the temperature before you return
The amount of money you save will depend on your home, climate and current habits. A smart thermostat will not magically lower every utility bill, but it can make it easier to avoid heating or cooling an empty house
Before buying one, make sure it is compatible with your heating and cooling system
A leaking pipe, overflowing washing machine or failed water heater can cause thousands of dollars in damage
Smart water-leak detectors are small sensors placed near areas where leaks are most likely to occur. Good locations include:
- Under sinks
- Behind toilets
- Near washing machines
- Beside dishwashers
- Near water heaters
- In basements or crawl spaces
If a sensor detects water, it sounds an alarm. Connected models can also send a notification to your phone, even when you are away from home
Some systems include several sensors and a separate gateway that connects them to the internet. Basic systems can cost less than $50, while more advanced models can automatically shut off the home’s main water supply
A leak detector cannot prevent every plumbing problem, but an early warning could mean the difference between wiping up a small puddle and replacing flooring, drywall or furniture
A portable power station is essentially a large rechargeable battery with outlets and charging ports
During a power outage, it can keep phones, laptops, lights, fans and an internet router running. Larger models may also power a refrigerator, television, coffee maker or other household devices for a limited period
Unlike a gasoline generator, a portable power station does not produce exhaust fumes and can be used indoors. It can typically be recharged from a wall outlet, a vehicle or compatible solar panels
Before buying one, check its battery capacity and maximum power output. Small models may be useful for phones and electronics but may not have enough power to operate refrigerators, microwaves or other appliances
Also remember that devices that heat or cool usually require much more electricity than phones, lights or routers
The best technology purchase is not necessarily the newest or most entertaining device. It is something that solves a problem you already have
A mesh Wi-Fi system may improve internet coverage. A smart thermostat may reduce wasted energy. Water-leak sensors may warn you before a small problem becomes a disaster. A portable power station may keep essential devices working during an outage
Paying down debt or building savings may still be the smartest use of an extra paycheck. But if those priorities are covered, these practical upgrades could continue providing value long after the money would otherwise have disappeared
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