New Year’s Resolutions For Energy Efficiency

The New Year brings new opportunities to have a healthier, more comfortable, and more energy efficient home. Lower your utility costs and save money with these simple resolutions: 

Make the 2 Degree Shift

Raising or lowering your thermostat by just 2 degrees is one small step for a homeowner, and one giant leap for energy efficiency. Set your thermostat to be slightly warmer during the hot months and slightly cooler in the colder months, then dress accordingly for great utility savings. 

Bundle Up

In this case, we’re not talking about your clothes – we’re talking about your heating systems! Insulate your hot water heater with an inexpensive thermal blanket available at all home improvement stores. Cover gaps in your ductwork with duct tape to maximize air flow to registers. Finally, check the insulation in your attic and plug gaps and holes with new insulation with a high R-value. 

Be Energy Conscious

Most home owners have little idea where their utility spend goes each year. Be prepared with information by installing an energy monitor on all major home systems. Install a programmable thermostat and set it appropriately to avoid heating or cooling an empty house when you’re at work. 

If you’ve already taken these resolutions in 2011 and are looking for lower utility costs in 2012, consider booking a free Home Performance Assessment to discover the next steps to making your home more energy efficient.