Tips to Lower Your Energy Bills in Southeastern Michigan

Lowering Your Energy Bills: Tips and Free Resources for Homeowners in Southeastern Michigan

In southeastern Michigan, homeowners can unlock the potential for significant energy savings. At Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Snyder & Company, Realtors, we’re not just here to help you buy and sell property, we also strive to assist you in making your home more energy-efficient and cost-effective. Below you’ll find our curated tips and a wealth of free resources.

Free Resources:

1. DTE Energy Home Energy Audit: Schedule a free home energy audit with DTE Energy and receive energy-efficient light bulbs, insulating pipe wrappings, and a smart thermostat (if eligible). DTE Energy Home Energy Assessment
2. DTE Cool Currents Program: Learn how to reduce your energy consumption and earn rewards with this program. DTE Cool Currents
3. Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC) Energy Efficiency Programs: Explore various programs and incentives for energy-efficient upgrades and home improvements. MPSC Energy Waste Reduction
4. Ann Arbor HERD Ordinance: If you’re a seller in Ann Arbor, learn about the free Home Energy Rating Disclosure (HERD), which requires you to provide a Home Energy Report (HER) to potential buyers. This free inspection and report will let you know where you are losing energy. Ann Arbor HERD
5. DTE Energy “Insulating and Weatherizing Your Home” Information (and Rebates!): Learn how to reduce energy consumption and earn rebates by insulating and weatherizing your home. DTE Insulating and Weatherizing Your Home

Tips to Lower Your Energy Bills:

1. Switch to Energy-Efficient Lighting: Replace incandescent bulbs with LED or CFL bulbs, which use significantly less energy. Energy-Efficient Lighting Options
2. Seal Air Leaks: Caulk and weather strip around doors, windows, and ducts to prevent heat escape. Consider using products like Indow Window Inserts to help seal air leaks and improve window efficiency. Indow Windows
3. Upgrade to Energy-Efficient Appliances : Look for appliances with the ENERGY STAR label to ensure they meet energy efficiency standards. Energy Star Appliances
4. Insulate Your Home : Proper insulation can reduce heat loss in winter and heat gain in summer. Energy Star Rated Insulation and Local Rebates
5. Adjust Your Thermostat : Lower the temperature in winter and raise it in summer to reduce heating and cooling costs. Energy Star Approved Smart Thermostats
6. Use Power Strips : Plug electronics, like TVs and computers, into power strips and turn off when not in use to eliminate standby power consumption. Consumers Energy Store Power Strips with Instant Rebates
7. Conduct a DIY Energy Audit : Identify areas in your home where energy is being wasted and take steps to address them. Video: US Department of Energy DIY Energy Audit
8. Use Natural Light : During the day, open curtains and blinds to let natural light in, reducing the need for artificial lighting. Energy Star Rated Windows, Doors, and Skylights
9. Wash Clothes in Cold Water : Save energy by washing clothes in cold water instead of hot water. Consumer Reports on Washing with Cold Water
10. Weatherize Your Home : Install storm windows, seal gaps, and add weather stripping to prevent heat loss. Seal and Insulate with Energy Star

Additional Tips:

1. Water Conservation : Fix leaks, use low-flow fixtures, and install rain barrels to conserve water. EPA Water Sense – Start Saving
2. Energy-Efficient Landscaping : Plant trees and shrubs to provide shade, reduce wind, and improve insulation. Video: Energy Efficient Landscaping
3. Smart Home Devices : Use smart thermostats and smart plugs to automate energy-saving tasks and monitor energy usage. Energy Star Smart Home Products
4. Local Incentives and Rebates : Research and take advantage of local incentives, rebates, and tax credits for energy-efficient upgrades. Energy Star Rebates, DTE Marketplace with Instant Rebates (find more for services at https://www.dteenergy.com/us/en.html), Consumers Energy Rebates
5. Energy-Efficient Appliances : Look for the ENERGY STAR label when purchasing new appliances. EnergyStar.gov

By utilizing these resources and making informed choices, you can enjoy a comfortable, energy-efficient home while also reducing your monthly bills. If you have further questions or would like personalized advice, please contact us at Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Snyder & Company, Realtors. Your sustainable home journey starts here!