This was the first week in my neck of the woods that the threat of snow became real. Our heating system is working really hard to keep up warm in the house. I’m all too aware of what that is going to mean when the latest gas bill comes our way, and I’m NOT looking forward to it. Guest author Micah Moon joins us today to talk about some ways that you can save money AND stay warm this winter. Check it out!
9 Energy Efficient Home Improvements that Could Save You a Lot of Money
In the last several years “green” living has not only become a popular trend, but also a way to bring cost savings to homes across the country. So what can you do to cut costs and save the planet at the same time? Learn the top energy efficient home improvements you can make to do both. Whether using cash for some of the less expensive improvements, or using home equity or savings for some of the more costly projects, you’re sure to find your hard work pay off in the end.
- Seal and insulate – According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), sealing and properly insulating your home, including heating and cooling ducts, can save up to 20 percent on heating and cooling costs (or up to 10 percent of your total annual energy bill).
- Install a programmable thermostat – This inexpensive upgrade can save you about $180 every year in energy costs, making it a worthwhile improvement.
- Replace doors– Hollow aluminum doors can let cold air in or allow heat/air conditioning to easily escape. Exchange hollow external doors for solid hard wood ones in order to further insulate your home.
- Add storm windows – Completely replacing old windows is a worthwhile eco-friendly upgrade and can save up to 24 percent on your energy bills. However, if your windows aren’t in need of a total replacement, at the very least you can make sure you have storm windows on each one. New storm windows not only block airflow but also, the tight seal is another way to ensure that your home is well insulated.
- Use a high-efficiency water heaters – According to Steve Koep of Marathon Water Heaters, nearly 15 to 25 percent of all energy usage in a home per year comes down to the water heater you have. Make sure yours is high-efficiency and you’re sure to save money.
- Replacing your washing machine – You can save up to $135 each year on utility bills by simply replacing your old washing machine with an energy efficient new model, according to the EPA.
- Upgrade your refrigerator – Replace your old fridge with a new energy efficient one and you may save up to $100 a year on utility bills. Like your washing machine, within a couple years you will recoup the cost and start seeing the savings.
- Change your air filter regularly – Not only does changing your home’s air filters approximately every three months help eliminate dust and allergens, but also it helps your home’s heating and cooling systems operate more efficiently, which will help save you money over time. Some programmable thermostats even notify you when the filter should be changed.
- Tune up your HVAC equipment – A yearly tune up for your home’s heating and cooling system will have a similar effect of changing your air filter. It will help your home perform to its fullest potential while cutting down on energy costs at the same time.
But how can one afford some or all of these energy efficient upgrades? Have you considered using home equity to rel=”nofollow”finance your home improvements? Why not do a home equity loan comparison to find the best loan for your home project needs. Low interest rates can help you save money and increase your energy savings while decreasing your carbon footprint.
Disclosure: This is a sponsored post.