Save on Your Home Energy Costs with These Renovations and Changes

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There's no secret that homeowners’ bills have been going up over the past decade, as the cost of living is always on the rise. Unfortunately for many families, increases in wages haven't kept pace making the rise in the cost of living all the more impactful. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, the average person spent $3,052 per year in energy in 2012, so now six years later you can expect that the total is more.

If the costs of your home energy bills are causing you to stress, then it may be time to look for solutions. There are a number of renovations and changes you can make in your home that will make a difference either immediately or over the long-term, and will help to bring down your energy bills.

Replace Your Windows

Replacing your windows can end up being one of the most effective ways to bring down your home energy bills. When you replace single-paned windows, you can expect to save anywhere from $126-465 a year. Now if you look to upgrade from single-paned to double-paned, you'll be able to save even more.

Obviously replacing all your windows is an investment. The average price to install a remodelled PVC window with a fusion-welded frame is on average $553 according to https://porch.com/project-cost/cost-to-install-remodeling-windows. If replacing all the windows in your home is too much at one time, start with one floor.

Switch Out Old Appliances

Another energy-guzzler in your home is old appliances. All old appliances should be switched out over time and replaced with the latest energy-star rated models. These appliances use up much less energy, and they run more efficiently since they are using today’s technology. Appliances such as your fridge, stove and dishwasher are a must, but don’t forget your electronics like your computer, televisions, stereo and more.

This is the kind of thing you can do over time, focusing on the oldest appliances and electronics first.

Install Dimmer Switches Throughout the Home

Here's a much less expensive tip and one that you can often do yourself. Installing dimmer switches around your home allows you to control how much energy is being used by your lights. As an added bonus, dimmer switches also allow you to better set the mood and atmosphere in a room.

Make Use of Ceiling Fans

If you find you are spending a lot to cool and heat your home, air circulation may be a problem in the space. To help circulate the air better, install ceiling fans throughout the space. In the summer you will want the blades to turn counter clockwise, while in the winter you will reverse the direction and have them move clockwise.

Tips and Changes that Really Add Up in Savings

Depending on the kind of budget you are working with you may only be able to do some of these changes, or perhaps you can do them all. Regardless of what you pick, you will start to see a difference in the amount you spend on your home energy bill.