5 Simple Home Improvement Projects that Lower Utility Bills

Each year, Americans let hundreds of dollars in heating and cooling fly out the window, and quite literally. However unintentional it may be, most homes are not operating at a high-efficiency level. Whether it be due to outdated appliances and entryways, or improperly insulated outer walls an inefficient home is just a wasteful home. Finding ways to reduce your wasted energy costs can lead to lower utility bills and a smaller carbon footprint.

Let’s take a look at some ways to achieve this.

1. Programmable Thermostat

One simple way to lower your utility bills is to install a programmable thermostat. A basic programmable thermostat can be installed in about an hour and comes with preset temperature settings for different times of the day. Some of the latest models offer greater control, easy programming, sophisticated displays, and control via Bluetooth or smartphone app. They can offer separate programs for each day of the week, and can even alert you if service is required.

5 Simple Home Improvement Projects that Lower Utility Bills

These programmable thermostats can be very useful for people who work long hours during the day and may not need their heating or cooling running while they are gone. Your smart thermostat can lower the temperature as you leave and keep it down until an hour or two before you get home. This reduces energy consumption, and thereby reduces your bill. Why run the heat if you are not there to enjoy it?

2. Switching to Energy Efficient Appliances

5 Simple Home Improvement Projects that Lower Utility Bills

Image source: energystar.gov

If you have extra cash to invest in new energy efficient appliances, you should do so. The old school appliances that you use every day can rack up your home’s gas and electric usage. If the appliances are old, they may be in need of maintenance, and even require outdated parts that are no longer … READ MORE