7 Low-Cost Ways to Use Less Energy at Home
You don't need a major renovation to cut your energy use. Small, inexpensive changes can make a home more comfortable and help keep utility bills in check, so start with whichever of these feels easiest and build from there.
1Find and seal the drafts you can feel
Air leaking around doors, windows, outlets and attic hatches forces your heating and cooling system to work harder. On a breezy day, hold the back of your hand near window frames, door edges and electrical outlets on outside walls. If you feel moving air or a sudden chill, you've likely found a leak.
Weatherstripping, door sweeps and a tube of caulk are inexpensive and easy to find at hardware stores. Foam gaskets that fit behind outlet and switch covers are another simple fix. Most of these jobs take an afternoon and need only basic tools.
Don't forget less obvious spots, such as where pipes and wires enter the house, the gap around a fireplace damper and the attic access door. If your home has gas appliances, keep in mind that some ventilation is needed for them to operate safely, so check with a qualified professional before sealing a home very tightly. Safety should always come before savings.