Heating and cooling energy bills can sometimes skyrocket, especially during the coldest New England winters or hottest Los Angeles summers. Here are some tips we frequently recommend to offset those heating and energy costs.

Use programmable thermostats or smart thermostats

By reducing the amount of energy you use, especially at night when you’re asleep or during the day if you’re out of the house, you can save hundreds on your energy bills.

Switch to electric or gas heating and cooling (vs. oil)

By switching your energy source from oil to electric heating and cooling, you’re able to take advantage of high-efficiently central air conditioning systems or central heat pumps. Some programs, like Mass Save, give rebates to residential customers for making the switch.

Add insulation

Through the Mass Save program, homeowners in MA can add insulation and air sealing at a discount of 75% to 100% (see more details at the Mass Save website). Additional insulation decreases energy use and keeps the home cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter.

Change to LED light bulbs

LED bulbs use 80 to 90% less energy than traditional bulbs and last longer, which saves you money on energy and bulb replacement costs. Look for bulbs with the Energy Star logo or for certified LEDs.

Look for local discounts related to home energy savings

Mass Save is a MA-specific home program that offers incentives for new construction or renovation projects that include plans for energy efficiency. Mass Save also offers 0% loans on qualified energy efficiency home improvements, discounts on light fixtures, lightbulbs, dehumidifiers, etc., and no-cost energy assessments for MA residences. Check your local area for similar programs offering discounts related to home energy efficiency and rebates or savings.

For more energy saving tips, head over to our post “10 Ways to Make Your Fixer-Upper More Energy Efficient.”