10 Easy Ways to Save Money & Energy in Your Home

This article updates an earlier contribution credited to Nick Gromicko, Ben Gromicko, Kenton Shepard and Realm Inspections.

Start with the equipment you already have and the way your household uses it. Savings depend on the home, weather, utility rates and existing conditions. These ten steps help you identify sensible changes without assuming a particular dollar return.

1. Review Your Energy Use

Compare several months of bills and note unusual changes in occupancy, weather or equipment use. Keep this information for a service visit or energy assessment. A single high bill does not identify the cause.

2. Maintain Heating and Cooling Equipment

Check filters regularly and follow the equipment and filter manufacturers’ instructions. Confirm compatibility before changing filter type. See our HVAC filter maintenance guide and ENERGY STAR heating and cooling guidance.

3. Check Thermostat Compatibility

Before buying a programmable or smart thermostat, confirm that it works with your equipment. Ask your HVAC professional about appropriate schedules and settings for your system, including a heat pump. Avoid assuming a fixed percentage of savings from each degree of adjustment.

4. Use Lighting Where It Is Needed

Turn off unnecessary lights and consider suitable efficient replacement bulbs for frequently used fixtures. Check fixture and dimmer compatibility before purchasing. For more ideas, see ENERGY STAR’s low- and no-cost tips.

5. Investigate Drafts Before Sealing

Record where you notice drafts and ask about suitable weatherstripping or repairs. Larger air-sealing projects should account for ventilation and the home’s other systems. Avoid blocking intentional vents or filling openings indiscriminately. DOE’s whole-house weatherization approach considers these systems together.

6. Plan Water-Heating Changes

When replacement is needed, ask a qualified installer to compare equipment suitable for your household demand, available space and utilities. Request installed-cost and operating-cost estimates. A tankless unit is not automatically the best choice for every property.

7. Check Water Fixtures and Leaks

Address dripping fixtures and discuss efficient replacement options with a plumber when needed. Compare product specifications and household use instead of relying on a universal annual savings estimate.

8. Use Appliance Settings Thoughtfully

Review the appliance instructions for energy-saving modes and suitable load sizes. Use lower-temperature laundry settings when appropriate for the fabric, detergent and cleaning needs. Clean the dryer lint filter as directed by its manufacturer.

9. Compare Before Replacing

Check the condition of existing equipment before committing to a new appliance, heating system or window project. Review ENERGY STAR product information and obtain a property-specific installation assessment. Confirm any incentive directly with the program administrator before including it in your budget.

10. Match the Assessment to Your Goal

A general home inspection and a dedicated energy audit have different purposes. If you need measured energy performance or projected savings, confirm those deliverables with the provider. Contact Realm Inspections to discuss the scope of a home inspection and your property concerns.