Hey GhostHusky36, it really depends on the kind of windows you already have in your home. If these windows from 26 years ago are only single-pane windows, then you should definitely replace them with double-pane windows. These can save you anywhere from $126–$465 a year in energy costs when replacing single-pane…

My understanding is the film seals the home – so in the winter it keeps the cold air from coming in, and likewise in the summer it should help keep the hot air from coming in.

Hi Derek,

Hey Brad10104, good effort so far. Here are a few more tips to keep cool while saving more.

You will save money anytime you can increase the temperature on your thermostat and cause the unit not to run. The old myth that says you will spend more energy bringing the temperature back down than you would have spent just leaving the thermostat alone is just that, a myth.

You are right to be concerned and ask this question! In the state of NY for example there have been numerous issues with suppliers to the point where the regulators have paused supplier competition. Some states publish approved lists of suppliers so check out your state’s websites– many states have a “public service…

There are products now that can do this for you! Curb is one: http://energycurb.com/. That is a broader system that connects to your breaker. If you want to do it at a smaller level, you can also try something like the: Digi XBee Smart Plug (which allows you to monitor stuff plugged into one outlet): https://www.digi.c…

Ironically enough, over the lifetimes of many microwaves, TVs, and other home appliances, these devices actually consume more electricity during the hours when they’re NOT in use. That’s because they’re sitting in stand-by mode and continuing to consume electricity as wasteful phantom power. And for the average…

Thanks for the question!

You’re welcome! One quick and relatively easy thing you can do is insulate your windows and that sliding glass door. If you’re feeling a lot of cold air, chances are, your heat is escaping a little bit in those areas. I just shared this link with another person who asked about window insulation: http://home.howstuffwor…

Good question! Typically states deregulate the generation and supply of electricity but the distribution is still one company, typically your local utility company, which still sends you the bill. The bill will include charges for the supply of electricity ($ per kilowatt hour used), the cost to get it to your home,…

Hey spidermann, you and your girlfriend are exactly right about stopping phantom electricity loss from all your plugged-in devices when you’re not use them. That’s because – even when you think they’ve been turned off – all these various devices and appliances (like TVs, sound systems, and microwaves) are sitting in…

Hi there, good question! If you’ve already taken the above measures, you may want to look into having a professional energy auditor come to your home, he will be able to show you areas in your home where you can save money that are overlooked by the average joe.

Hi!

Hi Sharpie! Start with your thermostat - Setting temperatures at or below 68 degrees is ideal for keeping power costs to a minimum during the cooler months. Every extra degree set below 68 degrees can save you up to five percent on heating costs, according to the Consumer Energy Center. - See this blog for more ideas: …

Thanks for your question!

Hi there! Insulating the ceiling between a unfinished basement and your heated house is not a good investment of your money and can cause several unintended problems .Might be worthwhile to add insulation over your exposed foundation walls. Before insulating, the basement moisture should be well controlled with…

Hi Cam_Cam!

Hi Craig!

Hi there! Sounds like you’re in a tough situation. If you’re familiar, I’ve heard that swamp coolers work really well in desert climates and might help cool your home better than an air conditioner. They are relatively low cost if you consider the energy efficiency benefits. Here’s a link to more information if you’re…