3 Money-Saving Alternatives to Costly Energy Upgrades

Energy efficient upgrades save you time and money in the long run and raise your home’s resale value, but they often carry a high up-front cost. Before committing to major energy upgrades, try these smart lower-cost alternatives first.

1.       While purchasing new EnergyStar appliances is a worthwhile investment for your home’s energy profile, limiting your large appliance use to off-peak hours is an easy alternative. Some of the biggest energy hogs in your home are your washer, dryer, and AC unit. Remember to wash clothing in cold water if possible and dry only full loads during the cooler hours of morning and evening. Replace your air filters regularly, and adjust your thermostat to a higher temperature during the day if no one is home. These simple changes will help clean up your monthly energy bill.

2.       If replacing your windows with multi-paned, energy efficient coated windows is not in your budget at the moment, try sealing your windows with weather-stripping and caulk to stop any air leaks. You can also cover windows with solar shades or light blocking curtains during the heat of the day, and plant trees outside to provide extra shade. Don’t sweat over major renovations – a short trip to the hardware store and a little elbow grease can lower your heating and cooling costs.

3.       Replacing all your light fixtures with new energy efficient lighting can be pricey, but simply replacing the bulb is a low-cost fix you can do right away. Swap out old incandescent bulbs with more environmentally friendly LED and CFL bulbs. You can find these at major retailers and save money on your electric bill without calling an electrician or changing your décor.

Enjoy your energy savings, and keep Fort Worth City Credit Union in mind when you’re ready to tackle the more expensive home improvement projects! We offer home equity loans at a great rate for all your home loan needs.