How to Cut Utility Bills
Utility costs continue to rise and can become a burden for families. A energy audit might be the remedy for high utility bills, as well as pinpointing issues with your home's energy efficiency. The majority of utility expenses comes from heating and cooling that can add up to $1,900 each year. You can perform a few procedures in order to harness your utility bill and cut costs.
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Instructions
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Aim to Cut Utility Bills
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Perform an energy audit to show how efficient your home is and what is costing you the most money. A home-energy audit can be done by an auditor. The inspection can range from two to four hours and cost from $400 to $600. The final report can show exactly where to start to renovate for cost-efficiency. This is the most reliable way of inspection, and energy auditors come with job experience and knowledge in heating, cooling or other areas. Check to make sure the auditor is certified by checking www.energystar.gov. If a home-energy audit is not in the budget, go to www.energystar.gov to find money-saving tips. Your utility company's website might offer similar tips.
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Upgrade appliances and equipment that use the most energy. The cost of renovating your home's energy fixtures varies depending on the location of residence. The cost can range from $8,000 to $10,000, but these improvements can be done periodically. Some costs can be offset by rebates offered by the government or the utility company. Some equipment that can be improved includes biomass stoves, nonsolar water heaters, windows and roofs.
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Check for gaps or cracks in windowsills and doors. The lack of insulation will increase your utility bill. Cracks can be filled with sealant found at a local hardware store. Also, weatherproofing strips can be applied to the bottom of doors to stop the flow of air. Unplugging appliances when not in use and using low-watt light bulbs will also make a positive impact on your utility bills.
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Tips & Warnings
Making improvements saves you money over time. It also can pay in the form of tax credits. In 2010, individuals can claim up to 30 percent of the cost on qualifying projects when filing taxes. Through 2016, improvements up to 30 percent can be claimed on geothermal heat pumps, solar panels and water heaters, as well as fuel cells. It is not recommended to file separately. A quick and cheap way to increase home efficiency is to use qualified Energy Star appliances through the Energy Efficient Appliance Rebate program.
