Welcome back to the Greening Your Home series! In this second article, we’re diving into simple, practical ways to make your home more energy-efficient—and save money while you’re at it. The best part? Many of these tweaks are inexpensive and easy to do yourself.
Even though a professional energy audit (like we discussed last week) is a great idea for finding bigger issues, you don’t have to wait to start saving. Here are eight quick fixes you can tackle today or over a weekend:
1. Get a Programmable Thermostat
If you don’t already have one, this is a must. A programmable thermostat adjusts your home’s temperature automatically based on your daily routine—warming up when you wake, cooling down while you’re at work, and keeping things comfortable when you return home.
Modern thermostats can include motion sensors and even smart features you can control from your phone. Bonus: Some energy providers will give you one for free, installed!
2. Switch to a Smart Power Strip
Those little glowing lights on your electronics? That’s energy being wasted. A smart power strip shuts down devices that are in standby mode, helping you cut 5–10% off your electricity usage. Old-school power strips just don’t cut it anymore!
3. Choose the Right Lightbulbs
LEDs, CFLs, halogens… it’s confusing! Make sure you pick the bulbs that suit your needs. Modern LEDs last longer and use less energy than incandescent bulbs, saving money in the long run. Check for manufacturer refund/exchange programs just in case.
4. Hang Your Laundry
Yes, it’s a little old-school, but using a drying rack or clothesline can save tons of electricity. Plus, your clothes will last longer, and you’ll reduce wear on your dryer. Pro tip: Use a porch or patio for quicker drying when the sun’s out.
5. Install Ceiling Fans
Ceiling fans aren’t just for summer—they help circulate air year-round. Set them to spin counterclockwise in summer for a cooling breeze and clockwise in winter to push warm air down. And don’t worry, there are plenty of stylish options now that won’t ruin your decor!
6. Insulate Exposed Water Pipes
Wrap your hot water pipes in the basement, garage, or anywhere they’re exposed. You’ll keep water hotter for longer and save 2–4 degrees worth of energy. Insulate at least the first three feet coming out of your water heater.
7. Double Check Vents
Blocked or dusty vents make your HVAC system work harder than it needs to. Make sure nothing is in the way of airflow—furniture, boxes, or piles of stuff—and give them a good dusting. Efficiency matters!
8. Plant a Shade Tree
A simple but effective trick! A tree in the right spot can make your home up to 10% cooler in the summer. Less direct sunlight = less energy used for cooling = happy wallet. Bonus: it adds beauty and increases your home’s curb appeal.
Extra Tip: Don’t forget about energy tax credits! Many states and cities offer incentives when you make energy-efficient upgrades.
Even small changes add up. Try a few of these DIY tips, and you’ll start seeing savings—and feeling good about helping the environment too.
Have questions about which energy-saving tweaks are best for your home? I’d love to help!
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