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Energy saving tips that cost more (not a lot), but pay for themselves in two years or less:

In addition to my last post 15 No Or Low Cost Energy Savings Tips

I thought I would include some energy saving tips that while not free or with out any cost, aren’t exactly expensive fixes and solutions to help you save energy and save money.

1. Install an automatic set back thermostat that adjusts room temperature according to your daily schedule. If you have a heat pump, be certain to use a special thermostat designed specifically for heat pumps.
2. Install do-it-yourself weather stripping and caulking to seal air leaks. Seal all perimeter wall penetrations and ceiling and floor penetrations to stop all air movement between heated and unheated spaces.
3. Install do-it-yourself storm windows that cost less than $1/sq.ft. such as flexible vinyl glazing.
4. Use motion sensors or timers for outdoor lighting. You’ll still have security and save energy.
5. Replace incandescent light bulbs in common areas (where lights are on most of the time) with compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs). They use about a quarter of the energy.
6. Replace the halogen torchiere floor lamp with a CFL model. They’re safer, use 70 percent less electricity and produce as much, if not more, light.
7. Tune up the furnace annually.
8. Replace furnace filters. The dirtier they are, the harder the fan furnace works. Clean filters are essential for heat pumps – airflow is critical and can add years to the life of your heat pump.
9. Add water heater tank and hot water pipe insulation especially if in an unheated space. Don’t cover the thermostat or, for natural gas models, the air inlets.
10. Install a sheet metal fireplace cover, especially if the flue damper does not fit tightly.

5 Home energy improvements that pay for themselves in two to five years:

1. Increase attic insulation to R-38 (the current requirement for new homes).
2. Insulate floors over unheated spaces to R-19.
3. Insulate and seal ducts in attics, crawl spaces, garages and other unheated areas-potential big energy savings!!
4. Install do-it-yourself storm windows that cost less than $3/sq.ft. such as rigid acrylic glazing.
5. Perform low-cost fireplace modifications, such as flue top damper or inexpensive glass doors.

11 Home improvements that take more than five years to pay for themselves:

1. When it is time to replace a home appliance, purchase an energy-efficient model. These appliances cost more initially, but you will save both money and energy over its entire life. An appliance that is cheaper to purchase will have higher operating costs, and savings you’ll accumulate from using an EnergyStar appliance will be substantial.
2. Energy Star® clothes washers save energy, water, and detergent.
3. Energy Star®windows only cost ~$0.50 /sq.ft. more than standard windows, save energy and increase comfort.
4. Look for and purchase Energy Star®labeled electronic goods, and lighting bulbs and fixtures.
5. Add do-it-yourself insulated (quilted) window covers (minimum R-3 and costing less than $5/sq.ft.) or install blinds, drapes or other window coverings.
6. Wall insulation should be added especially when the wall cavity is made accessible during home remodeling. Depending on your siding type, consider blown in insulation, applied from the exterior.
7. Furnaces, heat pumps, air conditioning and water heaters all have high efficiency models available and should be considered when replacing these appliances.
8. Invest in commercially installed storm windows or insulated glass.
9. Replace conventional oil burner (oil furnace) with a more efficient flame-retention burner.
10. Install a fireplace insert or wood stove in the fireplace.
11. Install a solar water heater.

Just a few more energy savings tips and thing you can do to help you save energy and save your money.