There are many ways to reduce energy costs but this can be broken into two categories of reducing energy use and reducing energy cost.
Easy ways to reduce energy use are: 1) replace frequently used light bulbs with LED bulbs. 2) seal drafts around doors and windows with gaskets or caulk but don’t caulk the operating parts! 3) Buy a smart thermostat(Nest) to control your HVAC settings and reduce consumption, especially when your home is empty. A simple app allows you to control your system from any connected device. 4) Use less energy and live smarter by cooking outside in summer and unplugging appliances and devices that don’t get used every day. 5) Talk to you family about lifestyle choices and let everyone contribute to finding ways to cut down energy use… “saving the planet” is a powerful motivator for children.
Ways to reduce energy cost:1) convert your HVAC system to geothermal and cash in on the 30% tax rebate from Uncle Sam. 2) Go solar by purchasing a grid tied starter system or by joining a solar program that will maintain the solar panels for a fee. 5, 10,15,30 year programs are available which reduces the start up cost and allows the buyer to pay over time. 3) Integrate a wind power device 4) install an ERV system to provide temperature controlled make-up air to your home year round. 5) Get a wood burning stove to offset the high cost of heating fuel in colder months.