Bright Ideas: Tips to Help Reduce Energy Costs in Your Home

As fall and winter approach, it's the perfect time to look at how your home uses energy. A few smart upgrades can make a real difference in your monthly bills, especially if you're already planning a remodel.

Start by getting a sense of where your energy goes. The U.S. Department of Energy offers a helpful guide to estimating appliance and home electronic energy use. Then consider these tips and technologies.

1. Switch to Energy-Efficient Lighting

Lighting is one of the easiest places to save. Compared with traditional incandescent bulbs, ENERGY STAR certified LEDs use at least 75 percent less energy and can last up to 25 times longer, according to the Department of Energy. They also run cooler and now come in a wide range of color temperatures, so you can get warm, inviting light in every room.

A remodel is also a great time to add dimmers, motion sensors and well-planned layers of task, ambient and accent lighting. Learn more in our post on home lighting types and trends.

2. Consider a Tankless Water Heater

Tankless water heaters heat water only when you need it, rather than keeping a large tank hot around the clock. That makes them more energy efficient than traditional tank models for many households. Other benefits include:

• Space savings: Compact units mount on the wall.
• Endless hot water: They don't run out the way a tank can.
• Longer life: Tankless units often last years longer than tank heaters.
• No tank to rupture: Less risk of a sudden flood.

The upfront cost is higher, but the long-term savings and convenience make them worth considering.

3. Upgrade to a Smart Thermostat

Smart thermostats take programmable thermostats to a whole new level. They learn your routine and preferences, adjust the temperature automatically and let you make changes from your phone. Used well, they can trim heating and cooling costs, and many models earn the ENERGY STAR label.

4. Take Advantage of Rebates

Local utilities and ENERGY STAR offer rebates that can offset the cost of efficient upgrades:

• Search incentives by ZIP code with the ENERGY STAR Rebate Finder.
• Jackson EMC members can check for rebates on items like heat pumps and water heaters.
• Georgia Power customers can explore available rebates and programs.

For more ideas, see green remodeling choices that save money and our winter home prep guide.

Build Efficiency Into Your Remodel

If you're planning a remodel, our design experts can recommend energy-efficient lighting, fixtures and technology that fit your home and budget.

Want a more efficient home? Call Tracy Tesmer Design and Remodeling at 678-450-1700 or contact us today.