Save Money After You Move by Making Energy Improvements

By Griffin Moving & Storage on February 17, 2015

When you move to your new home, consider making some energy improvements to help reduce your utility bills. If you want to save money on your utility bills – consider tips in the EnergySavers guide from the U.S. Department of Energy.

Buy Energy Efficient Appliances
Buying energy efficient appliances should be a priority when you move your household. Energy efficient appliances can be easily identified by looking for the yellow ENERGY STAR® label. The ENERGY STAR® label tells you that the appliance meets guidelines for efficiency set by the U.S. Department of Energy. An ENERGY STAR® appliance can lower energy consumption by 20-40+% compared to a non-compliant appliance. The same applies to big ticket items like water heaters, furnaces and air conditioning units.

Certain Home Improvements Can Save Energy
To reduce drafts and loss of energy, you should also make sure you have adequate insulation throughout. Replacing older windows with newer double-pane glass windows can keep cool/warm air from escaping your home. Some government agencies provide tax credits and rebates for improvements – go to www.energy.gov/savings for details.

Cash Strapped? Try Low Cost Improvements First
If you don’t have the money for big-ticket items, there are smaller items you can buy than can save you money over time. You can turn down the heat and air-conditioning throughout the day by installing a programmable thermostat. Replacing older incandescent bulbs with more energy efficient (i.e. LED/CFL) bulbs to reduce energy usage. Spend a few bucks on expansion foam or caulk to seal holes around vents, wires and pipes leading into the house.

Any energy improvements that you can make within your budget will help you save money for years to come.