After you have taken efforts to conserve energy use in the home, you can save a ton by understanding that a house works as a system.

Improving your home’s energy performance is a science. Therefore, we recommend working with professionals to help you get the biggest bang for your buck on your energy bills while improving the health and comfort of your home.

• Have a complete energy audit peformed by a reputable business. Save a Ton partner The Community Alliance for Energy Efficiency can help connect you to local service providers.

Believe in DIY? Here are a few things you can do to get started:

• Insulate attic spaces to a minimum R19 (6 inches of material). To maximize energy efficiency, insulate to R38 (11 inches).
• Caulk windows and door frames, wiring and pipe penetrations and anywhere air leaks in or out. Weatherstrip around loose window sashes and doors.
• Wrap heating and cooling ducts with duct insulation, or use mastic sealant at loose joints.
• Seal attic bypasses -- areas where pipes, wires and vents penetrate the attic floor.
• Vent your clothes dryer outdoors and ensure it has a damper. Clean the vent frequently.
• Combustion appliances can be a source of unhealthy and dangerous emissions into living spaces. A properly credentialed (BPI or equivalent) contractor should be consulted to verify that all combustion appliances are operating safely and efficiently.

After you’ve maximized your home’s energy performance, you can look in to residential renewable energy generation. The lower your energy usage, the less you'll need to spend on a renewable energy system that’s capable of meeting your needs.

If you’re interested in solar panels on your roof, solar hot water heating, or a wind turbine on your property, visit the U.S. Department of Energy’s website on renewable energy.

Tips for choosing an energy audit service