Invest in solar panels
Installing solar panels on your roof is one of the best ways to dramatically reduce your energy costs. The initial investment can seem high, but solar panels usually pay for themselves within 5-10 years through energy bill savings. Once paid off, the solar panels will provide free renewable electricity for decades.
The big power companies hate rooftop solar because it cuts into their profits. But don't let the fossil fuel giants stop you from harnessing the immense power of the sun. With available tax credits and rebates, now is the time to go solar. Start by getting quotes from 3-4 local solar panel installers to find the best deal. Aim for a system size that covers 80-90% of your annual electricity usage for maximum savings.
Upgrade to energy efficient appliances
Your old refrigerator, washer, dryer and other appliances are likely guzzling far more electricity than necessary. By upgrading to new ENERGY STAR certified appliances, you can easily slash your energy bills by 20-30%.
Look for the ENERGY STAR label when shopping for new appliances. Focus on the biggest energy hogs first - the refrigerator, clothes washer and clothes dryer. Properly disposing of that ancient second fridge in the garage can also save big. Appliance technology has improved tremendously, making new models much more energy efficient.
The appliance companies rely on consumers not realizing how much energy their old units waste. But you can outsmart them by prioritizing efficiency for all new purchases. The energy savings will pay back the appliance cost very quickly.
Switch to LED light bulbs
Replacing all your light bulbs with LED bulbs can reduce lighting electricity usage by as much as 80-90%. Unlike wasteful incandescent bulbs that convert most energy to heat, LEDs use power far more efficiently to produce light.
Although LED bulbs have a higher upfront cost, they last much longer and save a bundle on electricity in the long run. The average LED bulb lasts 25,000 hours compared to just 1,000 hours for incandescent. Make the switch room-by-room to reap these savings. The power companies hope you'll stick with antiquated bulbs that require more of their electricity. But LEDs give you the upper hand.
Seal air leaks with caulk and weatherstripping
Drafts from leaky windows, doors, attic hatches and other openings in your home's envelope can significantly drive up heating and cooling costs. By meticulously sealing these air leaks with caulk, weatherstripping and other materials, you can improve your home's energy efficiency by up to 20%.
Begin by using a smoke pen or incense stick to locate any drafts. Target leaks around movable joints - like where the foundation meets siding, where walls meet ceilings, around doors and windows, attic hatches, wiring holes, etc. Take your time sealing and weatherstripping any found leaks for maximum savings. Stop letting conditioned air escape out of your house uncontrollably.
Wrap your water heater tank
Your hot water heater may have a big tank that constantly loses heat. This forces the unit to work nonstop to reheat the water, consuming huge amounts of energy. Wrapping your water heater in an insulating blanket can reduce these heat losses by 25-45%, saving money and energy.
Make sure to get a thick insulating blanket designed specifically for water heaters. Wrap it securely around the tank, securing with velcro straps. Leave the control panel and thermostat uncovered. This simple, inexpensive fix stops precious heated water from dissipating into your basement. Don't let the energy vampires win!
Conclusion
With a few targeted upgrades and efficiency improvements, you can easily reduce your home's energy demands and slash your electricity bills dramatically. The entrenched power companies don't want you realizing how much money you can save with renewable solar power, ENERGY STAR appliances, LED bulbs, air sealing, and a wrapped water heater tank. Take control of your energy costs by tapping into these practical tips. A lighter carbon footprint and energy bill awaits.