While most of us are aware of how much keeping our air conditioners and heating systems set at levels that help us save energy (therefore saving money) there are several economical improvements you can make to your home that will help you save money. Explore some of these home upgrades that will save you money over time.
Light bulbs - The new energy saver bulbs that are so popular right now can result in considerable savings. Upgrading to these compact bulbs can save you money on your electric bill. While the initial outlay of funds may seem high (some bulbs can be as expensive as $6.00) over time, you will continue to save money on your electric bill with this economical upgrade.
Insulation - Purchasing insulation for your attic, basement and other outside facing walls can save you money on both heating and air conditioning bills. Insulation is easy to install and is an economical improvement that will save you money over time. Using the proper insulation means your home stays warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer.
Appliances - Check all of your home appliances from your microwave oven to your furnace. See if they are energy efficient. Replacing appliances that are not energy efficient will result in considerable savings. Also check your heating system and water heater and see if you could benefit from pipe wrapping to insulate them. This upgrade to your heating system and hot water heater can result in cost savings.
Electrical outlets - Consider checking all of your electrical outlets and see if they are allowing drafts into your home. You can seal edges to keep drafts out. Even small drafts in several places in your home can result in an increase in your heating and air conditioning bills.
Foundation - Check your foundation for cracks and holes. You can fill these holes to ensure that your home is not leaking valuable energy. This is a very economical improvement that will save money.
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Additional ways of saving money that do not cost a lot include setting timers on your heating system so that the temperature stays steady while you are home and turns down automatically at a set time during the day. You can also use timers on lights. Many of these cost effective home improvements will save you substantial amounts of money over time.
Summary
There are many ways that you can explore to save money by upgrading your home with economical improvements. Use an energy audit to create an improvement checklist.