Nov

02

6 Upgrades To Save Money On Energy


Energy Star has a little chart that shows how replacing the standard equipment in the house can save you money in the long run. It shows you the extra cost, the annual savings, and for the impatient, the payback period.

The 6 upgrades are:

1. Get a programmable thermostat.
2. Replace your incandescent bulbs with compact florescent light bulbs.
3. Upgrade to a more energy efficient furnace.
4. Replace your laundry machines with the low water/low power machines.
5. Get windows that keep the heat (or cold) in your house.
6. Get an energy efficient central air conditioning unit.

You should definitely start with the top 2 (Getting a programmable thermostat and replacing your light bulbs). It will only cost 70 bucks and your extra cost will be paid back within 7 months. The savings for upgrading your furnace are pretty good. It saves you $400 a year.

A surprise was the windows. I was under the impression that closing up leaks in the house was the best way to save tons of money on your energy bills. The cost to savings ratio of new windows isn’t worth it to me. I’d rather put wax paper over my windows. And the bonus of using wax paper? Your neighbors won’t be able to see you.

Upgrading your central air conditioner unit to save $35 is also not worth it unless you plan to live in the house for a very long time. Here’s the chart from Energy Star.
Save Money On Energy

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