Everyone knows that the cost of energy continues to rise. It seems like the electric bills go up every year, and it becomes more challenging to afford them. But thankfully, there are many minor home improvements you can make that will help you save money on your energy bills. And here are 12 ways you can do just that:
1. Add insulation to your attic
If you have yet to insulate your attic, now is the time to do so. Attic insulation is one of the most effective ways to reduce your energy costs. By hiring spray foam insulation experts to work on your attic, you can keep heat from escaping through your roof during the winter and prevent heat from entering your home during the summer.
2. Seal drafty windows and doors
If you have drafty windows and doors, they are likely responsible for your energy loss. Seal the gaps around your windows and doors with caulk or weatherstripping to fix this problem. This is a relatively easy and inexpensive home improvement that can make a big difference in your energy costs.
3. Use a programmable thermostat
If you have a central heating and cooling system, using a programmable thermostat can help you save money on your energy bills. This device automatically sets the temperature for different times of the day, so you won’t have to cool or heat the house when it’s empty. This simple change can help you save a significant amount of money on your energy bills.
4. Upgrade your light fixtures
If you have old, inefficient light fixtures in your home, consider upgrading to newer, more energy-efficient models. LED light bulbs are an excellent option for energy efficiency, and they last much longer than traditional light bulbs. So, upgrading your light fixtures is a great way to save money on your energy bills and reduce your environmental impact.
5. Install energy-efficient appliances
Installing energy-efficient appliances is another great way to reduce your energy costs. Energy-efficient appliances use less energy to run, so they can help you save money on your utility bills. And, if you’re in the market for new devices, look for models with the ENERGY STAR® label. These appliances are some of the most energy-efficient models on the market.
6. Add solar film to your windows
Adding solar film to your windows is a great way to reduce the heat that enters your home during the summer. This simple home improvement can help you keep your home cooler and reduce your energy costs. So, if you have yet to add solar film to your windows, consider doing this before summer arrives.
7. Plant trees to shade your home
Planting trees to shade your home is a great way to reduce the heat that enters your home during the summer. By shading your home with trees, you can keep your home cooler and reduce your energy costs. So, if you’re looking for a way to improve your home’s energy efficiency, consider planting some trees.
8. Add awnings or storm windows
If you have large windows, using awnings is a great way to reduce the heat entering your home during the summer. Awnings keep the sun from hitting your windows, which helps to keep your home cooler. But if you don’t like to install awnings, consider installing storm windows that help keep the cold air out and the warm air in instead.
9. Insulate your water heater
If you have an electric water heater, it’s probably responsible for a good portion of your energy costs. To save money on your energy bills, consider insulating your water heater. This is a relatively easy and inexpensive home improvement that can help you reduce your energy costs.
10. Install a ceiling fan
If you have a central heating and cooling system, installing a ceiling fan is a great way to reduce your energy costs. Ceiling fans help to circulate the air in your home, which can help you save money on your energy bills. And, if you’re looking for an energy-efficient ceiling fan, look for models with the ENERGY STAR® label.
11. Get a home energy audit
Consider getting a home energy audit if you’re not sure where to start improving your home’s energy efficiency. A home energy audit is an assessment of your home’s energy use. An energy auditor will come to your home and evaluate how you use energy, and they’ll make recommendations for improvements. Getting a home energy audit is a great way to learn about improving your home’s energy efficiency and saving money on your energy bills.
12. Weatherize your home
One of the best ways to improve your home’s energy efficiency is weatherizing it. This helps seal any gaps or cracks that allow heat or cold air to escape. This simple home improvement can help you save money on your energy bills, and it’s a great way to reduce your environmental impact. So, if you’re looking for ways to improve your home’s energy efficiency, weatherizing it is a great place to start.
Making minor improvements around your home can go a long way in helping you save money on your energy bills. So, if you’re looking for ways to reduce your energy consumption, check out these 12 home improvements that can help you save money on your energy bills.
