Energy Efficiency: Pick Upgrades that (Actually) Drive Down Costs

I've long suspected that saving energy is like saving calories: Small measures add up, until a Thanksgiving pecan pie - or a dazzling holiday light display (http://www.houselogic.com/home-advice/lighting/great-home-holiday-light-show/) - wrecks a year's worth of small though consistent efforts.

Evidently I'm right, according to a new study (http://www.mnn.com/your-home/at-home/blogs/bill-reducing-home-improvements-fours-a-charm) claiming that doing a couple of small, energy-saving measures actually increase utility bills. And that a home owner must perform at least four energy upgrades before their utility bill drops.

The 450-page study, conducted by the eco-curious Shelton Group, found that energy-efficient home owners think they should replace water heaters (http://www.houselogic.com/home-advice/water-heaters/water-heaters-repair-or-replace/) and install a higher-efficiency HVAC system (http://www.houselogic.com/home-advice/heating-cooling/hvac-maintenance/), though they actually replace windows and add insulation.

We think they're half right: Adding insulation (http://www.houselogic.com/home-advice/insulation/attic-insulation-savings/), especially in the attic, is a low-cost way to reduce utility bills. But replacing windows requires a huge upfront cost, which you probably won't live long enough to earn back.

To see net-net savings - in your lifetime - select upgrades (http://www.houselogic.com/home-advice/green-remodeling/eco-friendly-home-improvements/) that reduce energy consumption by 5% and require modest initial investments. We suggest:

•Seal and insulate ductwork through unfinished and unheated areas, such as the attic, garage, and crawl spaces.

•Install a programmable thermostat so you don't overheat your house when you're away or asleep.

•Seal air leaks (http://www.houselogic.com/home-advice/insulation/home-air-leak-seal-tips/) around windows, doors, attic access, and recessed lights.

How many energy-efficient improvements did you make last year? Did you see a drop or increase in your utility bills?

By: Lisa Kaplan Gordon
Published: November 03, 2011