Nov 10, 2010
By New England Design and Construction

The first step of actually saving energy is to formulate a plan. Usually when we waste energy, it’s bad habit that we leave lights on or we leave electronics on or leave the water running. It’s going to be hard to change habits but if you stick to a plan, you’ll be fine.

First- Located and isolate the area where you think you losing the most energy places such as windows, rooms, lightings, gas, heating, Could literally be anywhere!

You can also check energysavers.gov for a checklist of areas you should maintain / look within your own home.

* Then ask yourself, how much are you spending on those areas?
* Where are your greatest energy losses?
* Then how long would it take for the investment in energy efficiency pay itself out? (replacing windows)
* How beneficial are the changes you are making? ( more efficient heating)
* How important are those to you ( heat)
* How much are you willing to spend and how much you want to save on each bill.
* ( Also you can hire an audit to do it for you, a lot of companies actually provide free services)

By isolating which bill ( lighting, gas , heat , water )
All these energy tips you can find and are provided for you, can be utilized in your plan.

You could even have little signs around the house as reminders, Ex: in the bathroom or kitchens have a “shut off light”.

Then ask yourself, realistically how long do you plan on living in that house?

* If you don’t is it worth the investment?
* Does it pay itself out?
* Do you plan on doing it yourself or will you need to hire a contractor?
* If they are worth it, you can also raise the home value if you plan on selling it later on.

There are many many tips for you to save money on energy, start your plan and start saving.