There are many ways to slash your utility bill that don't include bankruptcy. Most of us don't consider the hidden efficiency enemies or don't know what to do about them. These simple do-it-yourself and professional options will keep the heat out and cool in during the hot summer months:
Culprit #1: Breezy Windows and Doors
Look for daylight through cracks around your windows and doors; feel for air seeping in. If you are home improving on a dime, buy weather stripping foam or rubber—it is sticky on one side and will cut out the airflow. The rubber stuff definitely wears better. Make sure you place the stripping where it will make tight contact with the window or door.
Culprit #2: Poor Wall Insulation
This bigger ticket item is a definite must to replace if it was done poorly the first time, and especially if your walls have absolutely no insulation. You'll need to hire a professional as you can seriously damage the walls, do-it-yourself style. Insulating cavity walls can save up to 15% off your energy bill and will typically pay for itself in just 2 years.
Culprit #3: Old Putties
Check out the putty around your doors and windows. If it is cracked you can be sure the hot air is creeping in. Scrape them off and apply a new layer.
Culprit #4: Outdated Unit
Old Bessie may be working overtime if your house has been a sieve for outside air. But if your unit is more than 12 years old, replacing it with an Energy Star version could be your best bet for keeping it cool. Most companies will offer a free consultation to assess how large of a unit you would need for your square footage. If you plan to move within five years, it may be best to insulate other areas of your home rather than go for an overhaul.
Culprit #5: Static Thermostat
My thermostat is impossible to read. It has one lever and a thermometer-style gauge above it that could read anywhere between 72 and 78 depending on the angle you look at it. I'm headed to the store today to buy a programmable thermostat so I can set it for specific temperatures during different times of the day. For just under $30 a Honeywell programmable can save up to $400 per year on heating and cooling.
Culprit #6: Dysfunctional or Poorly Planned Duct Work
Although a good duct cleaning can charge hundreds of dollars, it is well worth it to identify any leaks and give the pipes a good cleanse. Although you can attempt to do-it-yourself, I'd get it professionally done.
Culprit #7: Inadequate Roof Insulation
I come from a family of mechanical geeks who are into fixing everything. An uncle recently gave me a tour of his newly insulated attic and I was truly impressed. Few builders actually use fiberglass as there are more cost efficient, easy to install, and cheaper options. I would use a certified installer for the job, but if you're channeling Bob Vila check out these tips first.
If your experience is similar to mine, you may be greeted by an energy bill jump when you move from an apartment to a house. I was pleasantly surprised. Apartments are hideously constructed with very little regard for the renters' utility bill.
So a $350 bill in the summer for our two-bedroom wasn't a big shocker—and that's for 78 degree temperature. Even though a house is typically much larger, you may or may not pay more than an apartment to regulate it's temperature.
Be sure to make a list of the items you'll need before heading off to Home Depot or Lowes. You can easily end up spending more than you'll save if you go into a big-box hardware store without a plan!
