Seems like energy and fuel costs are always on the rise. Obviously, it pays (you) to be frugal about energy consumption in and around your home. So here’s my 8 ways to increase energy efficiency in your home…

1Compact Fluorescent Light Bulbs

It’s no secret that energy-efficient fluorescent light bulbs greatly reduce heat output and cooling costs in your summer home. Plus, they last four to ten times longer than regular light bulbs. They are costly to purchase, but you’ll save at least $6 per year on your energy bills.

2Programmable Thermostats

Nothing beats a programmable thermostat for pinpoint setting your home’s temperature around the clock. This device can save homeowners approximately $150 a year over regular thermostats.

3Ceiling Fans

A ceiling fan will help keep your home at a comfortable temperature year round. Don’t forget to reverse the blades in winter to pull air straight up to the fan and push the warm air (that rises to the ceiling) back down around the edges of your room. Ceiling fans can lower your energy bill by about $15 per year.

4Weather Stripping

Cool and hot air is not the only thing flying out your door and window cracks – so are dollar bills! Homes with poor weatherstripping can account for heating and cooling losses of up to 40%. Patch up those cracks for just a few dollars at home improvement stores; you’ll more than get it back!

5Fiberglass Insulation

Everyone knows that fiberglass insulation keeps your home warm in the winter and cool in the summer. It can reduce heating and cooling costs by as much as 20 percent, according to experts. Wrap your hot water heater in it and save more. A roll of insulation only runs about $15 at home improvement stores.

6Low-Flow Plumbing

Low-flow fixtures or additions to sinks, toilets, and showerheads can reduce your home water consumption by as much as 50 percent ($150/year) or more, according to Energy Star. In addition, these devices are generally inexpensive and easy to install.

7Dishwashers

Dishwashers today (Energy Star models) use an average of 5.8 gallons of water per cycle. Compare that to older models that use as much as 10 gallons. Consider new technology like soil sensors, improved water filtration, and more efficient jets, and upgrading to a new model could save you more than $50 a year in energy costs. You’ll save enough money to pay for dishwasher detergent all year.

8Tankless Water Heaters

Better than insulating those big water heater tanks that take up a lot of room is to go tankless! Not only do tankless heaters outlast tank heaters by five to ten years, they never run out of hot water. Not to mention, Energy Star states you’ll get a federal tax rebate upon purchase. Tankless water heaters allow homeowners to cut about 20 percent off their water bill.

By slowly replacing systems around your home with these energy-efficient alternatives, you can start saving on your utilities budget without breaking the bank! If you have other cost-saving ideas for your home, let me know in the comments below! And if you’re looking to buy or sell a house in the Albuquerque area, contact me today!