How to Make Your Home More Energy Efficient in 5 Steps

Energy bills can rise quickly, especially during extreme weather, but you don’t need to overhaul your whole home to save money. A few simple adjustments can make a big difference in comfort and cost. Here are five practical steps to get started.

Seal Air Leaks

Air leaks are one of the biggest causes of energy loss in a home. Drafts from windows, doors, and vents allow warm or cool air to escape, forcing your heating or cooling system to work overtime.

Check around baseboards, attic hatches, outlets, and window frames for cracks or gaps. Use weatherstripping or caulk to seal smaller areas, and foam insulation for bigger gaps. Even a small afternoon of sealing can make your home more comfortable and noticeably lower your utility bill.

Upgrade to LED Lighting

If you’re still using traditional bulbs, switching to LEDs is an easy win. LED bulbs use up to 75% less electricity and last much longer than incandescent lights. They also give off less heat, which helps reduce cooling costs in the summer.

Many come in different color temperatures, so you can create a warm, inviting glow or bright, daylight-style lighting. Replacing bulbs room by room can be a simple weekend project with an instant impact.

Use Smart Thermostats

Heating and cooling account for a large portion of most energy bills. A smart thermostat automatically adjusts temperatures based on your schedule, so you’re not wasting energy when no one’s home.

Many models let you control settings from your phone, making it easy to turn the heat down when you’re away or warm things up before you get back. Over time, this small change can cut energy costs by as much as 10% each year.

Improve Insulation

Insulation acts like a blanket for your home. Without enough of it, heat seeps out in winter and sneaks in during summer. Check your attic, crawl space, and walls to see if insulation levels are up to standard.

Adding more insulation helps your home stay at a steady temperature and reduces the strain on your HVAC system. It’s an investment that pays off through lower energy bills and improved comfort in every season.

Unplug and Maintain Appliances

Appliances and electronics draw energy even when they’re off, a problem often called “phantom power.” Unplug chargers, coffee makers, and electronics when not in use, or use a power strip you can switch off.

Keep major appliances clean and well-maintained; dust behind the refrigerator, clean dryer vents, and check seals on the oven and fridge. Small upkeep tasks help everything run more efficiently, extending the life of your appliances while saving energy.

Small Changes, Big Impact

Making your home more efficient doesn’t have to cost a lot or take major effort. Paying attention to how you use energy can lead to real savings. Small upgrades and simple habits can lower bills, cut waste, and make your space more comfortable all year long.

This article first appeared on Happy From Home.