If you’d like to bring down your utility bills and make your home more environmentally friendly, it’s essential to think about your home’s energy efficiency.
Energy efficiency generally refers to how well something uses energy. The home uses energy in many different ways, such as heating and cooling. In other words, the more efficiently your home can heat and cool itself, the more money you’ll save on bills. In tandem with the strategic budgeting of utilities using the budget billing technique, improving energy efficiency can help you save money this winter.
Furthermore, one way to make your home more efficient is through a process called weatherization. Weatherization is the practice of protecting one’s home from the elements and increasing energy efficiency. It can be incredibly beneficial to you and your family because you can:
If you would like to try a few do-it-yourself (DIY) weatherization projects in your home. For example, here are some ideas from the Energy Resource Center in Colorado:
Of course, if you are unable or uncomfortable with doing home improvement projects yourself, service providers can assist you. There also are options available to make weatherization more economically viable. For example, the Minnesota Department of Commerce offers programs to help Minnesotans save energy and money, including:
If you need assistance beyond weatherizing your home, check out these additional financial resources.
Money Management E-Newsletter: October 2020