A typical American family spends nearly $2,000 per year on their home energy bills, according to the Department of Energy. Much of that money, however, may be wasted through leaky windows or ducts, old appliances, or inefficient heating and cooling systems.
Where To Start
Improving the envelope of your home is a good place to start. Seasonal temperature changes and wind vibrations can loosen up even a tight home. Doors and windows may not close tightly, and ductwork can spring leaks. By installing weatherstripping and caulk around windows and doors, you can keep cool air inside during warm months and prevent chilly air from penetrating the indoors during colder months. Sealing gaps around piping, dryer vents, fans, and outlets also helps seal the envelope and creates greater efficiency
Replacing incandescent light bulbs with LED bulbs can make a big difference in home efficiency and is a quick way to cut your energy bill. Known for their longevity and efficiency, LEDs have an estimated lifespan of 10,000–20,000 hours compared to 1,000 hours of a typical incandescent.
Wrapping Up Savings
Installing a blanket around your water heater could reduce standby heat losses by 25% to 45% and save you 7% to 16% in water heating costs. For about $30, you can purchase a precut jacket or blanket and install it in about 1 hour.
Given that a large portion of your monthly energy bill goes toward heating and cooling your home, it makes sense to ensure your home’s heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system is performing at an optimal level. Changing or cleaning your filter extends the life of your HVAC system and saves you money.
Air filters prevent dust and allergens from clogging the system. Dirty filters can increase operating costs by 15% and result in the need for costly duct cleaning or replacement. Many HVAC professionals recommend changing or cleaning the system filters monthly.