Skyrocketing energy bills not only upset your wallet, but they also have a negative impact on the environment. Finding ways to reduce annual energy consumption can make a big difference. From heating and cooling to lighting and appliances, learn how you can make a difference without sacrificing comfort or convenience.
Track Your Current Usage
"It may sound self-explanatory, but before diving into where you can save, start first by taking note of current patterns by evaluating where your home energy usage currently stands," shares Dustin Gregoire, National Sales Manager for Bosch Home Comfort. "Try checking out home energy assessments or conducting a DIY assessment.
Energy.gov has a great checklist to help you kick off that process:
- Locate and seal leaks and drafts
- Improve ventilation to prevent backdrafts
- Check insulation everywhere. If you need insights, we cover basic home efficiency tips as well as best practices for insulating an attic, insulating a crawl space, and insulating your rim joists.
- Insept heating and cooling systems
- Upgrade your light bulbs and electronics (plus, unplug as many vampire devices as possible, like your toaster oven)
- Create a whole house plan and hire a pro for a home energy assessment
Keep Your HVAC Unit in the Best Possible Shape
"It’s hard to stress just how important the health of your home systems is, and how it ties directly into energy bills," adds Gregoire. "By scheduling inspections at least once a year, cleaning or changing that air filter every three months, and adjusting your thermostat when possible – your unit can run at its best, saving you and your family money all the while."
Look Into Tax Incentives and Rebates
"The Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) has allotted billions toward clean energy, aiming to reduce greenhouse gas emissions," reminds Gregoire. "Through this, consumers can take advantage of a slew of tax credits and rebates, including the 25C: Energy Efficient Home Improvement Credit which gives homeowners a tax credit of 30% for an energy-efficient product, the 25D: Residential Clean Energy Credit, providing tax savings on solar panels, battery storage, and geothermal heat pump installations, and more."
