Because who doesn’t need to trim their budget in this economy? Here are six easy ways to reduce your home energy costs. These calculations are based on an “average size” home.

Since all homes differ in square footage, age and condition, you may want to consider a more detailed energy efficiency audit before undertaking any home improvements. This way you can consider the most important steps to perform in order to save you the most money.

• Install a programmable thermostat /$65.
• Insulate your water heater /$25.
• Add insulation in your attic /$125.
• Seal and insulate your HVAC ducts /$100.
• Install efficient showerheads /$25.
• Seal large air leaks in your home /$100.

Approximate Savings Annually = $440.

Home energy efficiency audits are professional inspections aimed at identifying where a home is wasting energy and how to fix the problems. The Reilly Group, a well respected Fairfield County, CT  home inspection company, conducts energy audits with an infrared camera - it is non-invasive, scans your home like an x-ray, accurately pinpoints the source of leaks and helps to determine which leaks require immediate action. A comprehensive energy efficiency audit report should include an estimated cost for fixing each item, a return on investment analysis for each item as well as the estimated number of years until the cost for each item is recouped.

Lower your energy costs, decrease the size of your carbon footprint and remember that in order to make a change, you have to be the change!