Smaller Utility Bills Come with These Improvements

Do you and/or your clients want to have smaller utility bills?

First thing, according to a recent article in CNBC, do a home energy assessment to actually know what is and what is not working most efficiently in your house. A home energy assessment costs approximately $100 but such an assessment could save you some 20% – 35% in energy usage, assuming you make the improvements the assessment may indicate.

According to the former acting deputy assistant secretary for energy efficiency with the Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy under the US Department of Energy, consumers can save an average of $105 – $627 annually. The Energy Department says that consumers will not only save money in the long term, their house will be more comfortable and the air quality in their house will be healthier.

The Energy Department suggests the following:

1. Temperature control: Make sure the HVAC system in the house is appropriate to and for the house.
   1. If the HVAC system is too large, the AC pumps too much cold air into the house, which could lead to too much moisture, condensation and mold.
   2. Those living in colder climates ought to have proper insulation installed throughout the house, including the attic.
   3. Seal up any leakage in the HVAC ducts and crawl spaces.
2. Lighting:
   1. Switch to LED lighting.
   2. Efficiency can be increased by 85% with LED lighting.
3. Appliance upgrades:
   1. Look for Energy Star labels for any and all appliance upgrades
   2. Go to the Energy Star website for additional information.
4. Water heater
   1. Check the age and functionality of the current water heater.
   2. A new water heater could provide 3-4 times more efficiency.
5. Check out the website DSIRE to search for policies and incentives provided for energy efficiency by state.