These seven Home Improvements that Lower Heating Energy Bill can really make a difference. There’s nothing worse than noticing your energy bill increasing throughout the fall and winter. However, there are ways you can help reduce the cost of your utilities.
Improving your home, such as updating your windows, installing smart thermostats, and installing new appliances can help you lower your energy bills even though it might cost you a sizable amount of money.
To manage utility bills, it is important to find the best and most competitive electricity rates and plans, fortunately, there are some tricks you can use to reduce your electricity costs. Here are seven of the best home improvement projects you should invest in to lower your property’s monthly energy bill.
1. Update Your Windows:
Everything deteriorates with time, including your window. It’s important to replace your windows once cracks and dent develops, which could be increasing your energy bill. You should also pay attention to the area around your windows, such as the frame, and see if you can identify any cracks or gaps that could be affecting the temperature of your home.
2. Install Smart Thermostats:
It’s nearly impossible to lower your heat bill by adjusting your thermostat if you’re not even home. However, if you install a smart thermostat, it can take care of that automatically. Using the programmable thermostat, you can set a number of temperatures for the different times of day, and some can even learn on their own of what your home’s internal temperature should be. Although most smart thermostats can be pricey, they’re a worthy investment and can save you upwards of $200+ per year.
3. Landscaping Can Help Increase Shade:
If you’re looking for ways to lower your energy bills during the summer, hiring a landscaper to increase the shade in your yard, especially in front of your windows, can help separate your need for the air conditioning. Plus, it’s an eco-friendly way of keeping your home cool, no matter how hot it is outside. Just make sure you don’t block out too much natural light, to prevent you from needing to keep your house lights on all day.
4. Inspect and Replace Your Furnace:
Hire a professional to come to your home and inspect your furnace. Typically, if your furnace is more than 15 years old, you should replace it with a more energy efficient model. An old furnace could be the cause of your high energy bills and may drive them higher than standard. Even if your furnace is not 15 years old, you should still hire someone to inspect and assess it. This way, you can determine if you have any leaks in the ducts or filter.
5. Insulation:
A home that is not properly insulated will require more energy to retain a comfortable temperature during the summer and winter. One of the best ways you can cut costs on your energy is by ensuring that your house has enough insulation. Pay close attention to the basement and attic as these areas typically do not have enough insulation. If you are not sure where to install insulation, contact a professional to run a full check of your home and install insulation where it is necessary.
6. Weatherstripping and Sealing Drafts:
The last thing you want is your heat to be escaping in the winter or your cold air to escape in the summer. Unfortunately, without proper weatherstripping and sealing, this is all too common. Even a small leak can lead to huge additionally spending on your energy costs. In addition to properly insulating your home, you should seal up any cracks and holes. Walk around your home to look for any potential air leaks and seal up these spots with caulk or sealant. You should also check the weatherstripping around your doors and windows. These are common entry and exit points for air. You want to make sure that your windows and doors seal tightly every time they close.
7. Update Appliances:
You can also lower your energy bill by upgrading old appliances to energy efficient ones. When looking for new appliances, be sure to look for the Energy Star symbol. This signifies home appliances that are more energy efficient and will save you money on your bills.
Additionally, a lot of local and state governments and utility companies offer financial incentives to homeowners who upgrade their old appliances to more efficient ones. Typically, these incentives are offered as rebate checks to those who can provide proof of purchase.
You can locate any incentives in your area by looking at the Database of State Incentives for Renewables and Efficiency, or DSIRE.
British Solomon is a contributing writer and media specialist for Jacksons Home & Garden. She regularly produces content for a variety of lifestyle and home décor blogs.
