Are Your Utility Bills Higher Than They Should Be?
A simple home energy audit can help identify the causes and solutions.
Whether you’re trying to lower your monthly utility bills during the hottest part of summer or preparing your home for cooler weather, a home energy audit can uncover opportunities to save money and improve your home’s efficiency.
The good news is that you don’t have to tackle everything at once. Many improvements are inexpensive, and some utility companies even offer free or low-cost professional energy assessments.
Many times, your energy provider will come out, do an assessment for you, and provide recommendations. But there are also some simple steps that you can take yourself that will make a difference. We’ve outlined a few of them below.
What Does an Audit Involve?
A home energy audit evaluates how your home uses energy, identifies areas of inefficiency, and recommends improvements that can increase comfort while lowering utility costs. It can also identify fixes you can make to improve overall efficiency.
The Hidden Costs
A home energy audit doesn’t just help lower utility bills. It can also uncover issues that affect your home’s comfort, safety, and long-term maintenance.
• Higher utility costs
• Increased safety risks
• Small issues turn into major repairs
• Appliances operating below peak efficiency
• Discomfort (too warm, too cold, etc.)
• Missed financial opportunities (rebates, discounts, etc.)
DIY Home Energy Audit
Try these tips to evaluate your home’s energy use. Many utility companies also offer free or inexpensive professional assessments.
A professional assessment is always helpful, but there are plenty of things you can inspect yourself before scheduling an appointment.
INSPECT:
• 12 months of utility bills — trends and usage
• Insulation, ductwork, and ventilation —tears or other damage
• Windows and doors — condensation, leaks, mold and drafts
• HVAC systems — evaluate overall performance
• Plumbing and electrical — faucets, pipes, outlets and wiring — wear and tear
EASY IMPACTS:
• Switch to LED lights inside
• Use solar lights outside (avoid stairs/walkways)
• Install ceiling fans
• Upgrade to efficient showerheads and faucets
• Use energy-efficient appliances
• Reduce “always-on” appliances
Phantom Energy:
The Silent Budget Killer?
One of the easiest ways to reduce unnecessary energy use is by eliminating “phantom energy”—electricity consumed by electronics and appliances even when they appear to be turned off. Hidden “energy vampires” could account for up to 10% of your electricity bill.
(Electricity rates vary by state.)
Look for the Glow!
If the item’s light is on, it could be silently pulling power.
Power Down Hidden Costs
• Plug devices into power strips with timers.
• Unplug items after they’re charged or not in use.
• Enable sleep/hibernate mode on electronic devices.
• Choose energy-efficient appliances
Need help improving your home’s energy efficiency?
If your home could benefit from professional maintenance or upgrades, we’re happy to connect you with trusted local vendors. Visit our Preferred Vendors page to find experienced professionals for everything from HVAC service and insulation to electrical work, plumbing, windows, and more.
Whether you’re preparing to stay in your home for years to come or getting ready to sell, investing in energy efficiency can improve comfort, reduce operating costs, and add long-term value.
If you would like to know more about recommended home care through all four seasons, be sure to view our Kansas City Metro Home Maintenance Calendar for a complete list.
