Many homeowners don’t take advantage of simple measures to reduce energy bills. A survey by SaveOnEnergy found that nearly 50 percent of homeowners have not switched their regular light bulbs to energy saving bulbs. This simple measure can save more than $180 a year on electric bills.

As in the case with switching to energy saving bulbs, cutting your electric and other energy bills doesn’t have to require a lot of time, energy or money on your part. In fact, most of the following recommendations are easy to implement and costs just a few dollars. These free and easy lifestyle changes can add up and help you save a significant amount of money over the long run.

Close Off Cracks In Windows And Doors

You can save as much as $200 a year by closing off cracks around windows and doors. A lousy seal around your window or door will allow energy to drain out, which will also empty your wallet.

Visually inspect doors and windows for air leaks. If you see light entering around a window or door, then it means that you have a leak. You can seal these leaks by weatherstripping or caulking them. Also, inspect your storm doors and windows to make sure that they are in good shape. 

Install A Smart Thermostat

A good thermostat can help you save money on both cooling and heating costs. A smart thermostat saves you more than just money though. It also allows you to regulate the comfort of your home. Some smart thermostats will enable you to keep different rooms in your home at different temperatures.

You can also set up most programmable thermostats to stay at various temperatures during different times of the day. You can control most smart thermostats with your smartphone. The best part is that you don’t have to be handy to install a thermostat. Most people can install a smart thermostat in less than an hour.

Set Your Washer Temperature on Cold

If you are washing clothes in hot water, you’re wasting money. Newer laundry detergents no longer need hot water to get the job done. In spite of this, many people are still unnecessarily washing clothes in hot water. According to Consumer Reports, some laundry detergent work worse in hot water. You can cut your energy usage per load in half by using warm or cold water to do your laundry.

If saving energy and money is important to you and you’re in the market for a new home, be sure to pass this information on to your trusted real estate professional so they can help steer you toward energy efficient properties.