Increase the Energy Efficiency of Your Home

There is much to consider when making a move to a new home – don’t forget saving money on utility bills. If you are looking to lower your energy costs, the U.S. Department of Energy has provided some tips in their EnergySavers guide.

• Replace Older Appliances With Energy Efficient Models
  If you are making a household move and plan to buy new appliances that are energy efficient. When you buy an appliance, make sure it has a yellow ENERGY STAR® to let you know it is energy efficient. The U.S. Department of Energy sets guidelines for energy efficiency, and the ENERGY STAR® label shows a passing grade. Appliances with the ENERGY STAR® label use 20-40+% less energy than comparable appliances that don’t have one. The same applies to big ticket items like water heaters, furnaces and air conditioning units.
• Home Improvements Can Cut Energy Costs
  To reduce drafts and loss of energy, you should also make sure you have adequate insulation throughout. Don’t let the cold/warm air escape from your home – upgrade to energy efficient double-pane glass windows. Local governments may even offer incentives for homeowners that make upgrades – check www.energy.gov/savings.
• Small Energy Improvements Can Go A Long Way
  There are smaller investments you can make in your home if you don’t have the money for major improvements. Programmable thermostat – lets you turn down the heat or AC during parts of the day when you are not home. Energy Efficient light bulbs (CFL/LED bulbs) – they can use up to 75% less energy than traditional light bulbs. A few bucks spent on caulk or expansion foam can go a long way to reducing drafts from outside pipes, wires and vents.

Taking the proactive measures mentioned above will repay themselves year after year in lower utility bills.