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- Compact fluorescent bulbs: These bulbs are affordable and claim to last as long as 10 incandescent bulbs (10 years with about 3 hours of use a day), and will save the homeowner $60. For a home with 25 light bulbs, you can buy new compact fluorescent bulbs for under $15 total and save about $1,500 over the course of about 10 years. Don’t forget that these new bulbs contain mercury and can’t be thrown out; they need to be brought to a home improvement store to be disposed of.
- Consult with the utility company: Have your utility company come out and look over your home to determine where you can save money. They will be able to give you an estimate of how much major appliances cost a year and may be able to do small jobs such as putting weather stripping around exterior doors.
- Save water: Aside from installing a low-flow toilet, you can also save a considerable amount of money by making changes in your shower. By unscrewing your shower head and installing a flow restrictor, you can conserve water and save money while doing so.
- Insulate the attic: Putting insulation in the attic can pay for itself within a matter of a couple of years. If the attic is small and space is limited, insulation can be blown in.
- Be cautious with windows: Double-paned windows can save you considerable amounts of money and are a good idea if you need to replace a window. Many homeowners wonder if they should go ahead and put double- paned windows throughout the home while they are having to install one anyway. Experts caution against this large investment, about $8,000-$12,000, because if a window is not installed properly, the homeowner will not see the savings.