How to Increase Your Home’s Energy Efficiency

The average family spends more than $2,000 per month on utility bills, for heating, cooling, hot water and cooking, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. Just think what you could do with the extra money if you could just reduce that amount by 10 percent or even five percent. Fortunately, there are many things you can do to increase your home’s energy efficiency and save your family money as well as reduce your household’s carbon footprint. 1. Seal Gaps in Doors and Windows Annually According to the National Association of Certified Home Inspectors, sealing any gaps at least once a year is one of the least expensive and most effective ways to increase your home’s energy efficiency. All of these gaps cause conditioned air to escape your home. And, don’t limit yourself to doors and windows. Look for additional gaps in the attic, around electrical outlets, along baseboards and around pipes and wires that enter your home. 2. Invest in Energy Savings Investing in energy-saving devices and systems can also dramatically reduce your home’s energy use. For example, installing a programmable thermostat can reduce your energy usage by around $180 per year (on average). And, opting for a tankless...