Many Americans have resolved to cut
costs in 2011. One of the best places to
start is in your home. There are several
low‐cost ways to create significant savings
on your utility bills throughout the
lifetime of your home.
- Check for leaks.
Cold air seeping in through your doors
and windows and weak spots in your
insulation can have a huge impact on your
energy costs. Test for these issues by
taking infrared images, conducting a
blower door test, or simply locating cool
air by touch. You can save 10 percent on
your energy bill by plugging air leaks with
caulking, sealing or weather stripping.
- Upgrade your attic insulation.
This simple, inexpensive solution can
reduce your home’s heating and cooling
costs by as much as 30 percent. The
recommended insulation level is 12‐15
inches, depending on the insulation type.
- Take a close look at your windows.
Windows can also account for 10‐25
percent of your heating bill in the winter
and can kick your air conditioner into
overdrive in the summer by letting
sunlight in. Consider installing energy-efficient
windows to help block solar heat.
If that’s not in your budget, simply
modifying your window treatments with
thicker or longer curtains can also help
lower bills too.
- Upgrade your appliances.
Swapping out all appliances isn’t
realistic for most homeowners, but if
you’re in the market for a new
washer, dryer or fridge, consider an
Energy Star product.
- Check your filters.
Dirty filters slow down airflow,
making your system work harder to
keep your home warm or cool. Clean
filters also prevent dust and dirt
buildup – an issue that can lead to
expensive repairs or system
replacement. Filters should be
replaced every three months.
- Swap old light bulbs for new,
energy‐efficient ones.
Energy‐efficient light bulbs require
much less power to provide the
same amount of light for a much
longer time.
