New England is an absolutely beautiful area to call home. With this beauty though, there's a bit of unpredictability. The New England area has a strange and unpredictable weather history, including everything from tornadoes to droughts to ice storms. All of these weather events, but especially the cold, can create a costly utility bill for your household.

Making your home energy-efficient is a great way to invest in your home and save you money in the long run, especially during the New England winters. Save yourself the seasonal stress of costly energy bills and consider energy-efficient home improvement projects.

Energy efficiency isn't just a way to save, it's also a valuable way to draw the attention of homebuyers. Our REALTORS® have insights on energy-efficiency home improvement projects to save you money and to stand out among other area homes for sale.

1. Conduct Seasonal Maintenance
   The energy experts at Energy Star have a recommended seasonal maintenance list. Having your systems in top shape and leaks all patched up can provide significant savings for your families. Ensuring your system is in working order before it's forced to "work hard" for the season is a fantastic money-saving strategy. Key things to look out for include:

• • Check your thermostat settings (HVAC and water heater too)
  • Tighten loose electrical wires
  • Inspect oil and gas connections
  • Lubricate moving parts in fans and motors (friction can decrease efficiency over time)
  • Unclog drains and replace filters

2. Insulate, Insulate, Insulate
   Keep your heat inside your home. Make sure you have the correctly rated R-value of insulation for your area and that it is in place in your attic, walls, floors, and more. Seal up drafty windows using either permanent or temporary methods. Consider installing a storm door (not a screen door) to help further insulate your house from the elements.
   
   If you need help identifying areas of heat loss, consider hiring a professional for an energy audit. By insulating your home properly, you can turn down your thermostat and gain significant energy savings.
   
   
3. Don't Plug It In
   An energy-efficient task that requires no initial investment! Our love of electronics is without question, and plugging in the right appliances and devices at the right time can make this love far more energy-efficient. Gain savings on your electrical bill by unplugging device charges when not in use.
   
   
4. Energy Efficiency Investments
   Just because some energy-saving projects don't cost anything, doesn't mean you should shy away from ones with an upfront cost. Consider purchasing and installing efficient light bulbs at the right wattage around your house. The largest investments you could make include upgrading your large appliances like your washer, dryer, and dishwasher. Look for Energy Star rated items to increase efficiency and check with your state for possible local rebates. Though these have a significant investment involved, these are the improvements that can save you the most in the long run.

Winter is coming, but don't let that stop you from staying warm and comfortable in your own home.Contact usto learn more about different home construction and energy-efficient features in your area.