Where Your Home Energy Dollar Goes

Ever wondered where your energy dollars go in your home?
This article and video shows you at-a-glance, so that you can focus on the areas that will give you the biggest bang-for-the-buck for reducing your home energy bill.

 

Space heating and air conditioning together account for almost half of the energy that a typical home will use. This is why we are always reminding you to do tasks like changing your air filters, adding or checking weatherstripping, getting your annual furnace and AC tune-ups done, etc. .... as these tasks all help you to reduce your heating and cooling costs, which are the costs that take the biggest bite out of your energy budget.

 

A typical home uses 14% of its energy for making hot water. And this is why we remind you of tasks like getting your annual service done on your water heater, backflushing your water heater, consider adding low-flow shower heads, and promptly fixing plumbing leaks/

 

And since it runs 24-7, you can see how your refrigerator can add up to 8% of your household energy bill. This is why we remind you of tasks like vacuuming the dust off your refrigerator coils to keep its efficiency up, and checking the seals around the door for air leaks.

 

And remember our reminders about reducing “vampire power” sources that suck electricity when appliances are turned off? This chart shows you the energy consumption of computers and televisions in your home, which are notorious electricity vampires when they are not in use. 

 

Next, with lighting being 6% of home energy use, you can see why we encourage you to use more efficient compact fluorescent and LED lights. And at 5% of your energy bill, you can see why we suggest the maintenance tasks that we do for your clothes dryer.

Key Steps to Take Before Closing on a Home

By Amy Newcomer • February 2, 2026
Before finalizing the purchase of a home, it’s important to follow a clear checklist. Start by making sure all contingencies—such as the inspection, appraisal, and financing—are fully resolved. You should also clear the title and secure title insurance to protect yourself from future ownership disputes. Once you receive your final mortgage approval, review your closing disclosure carefully. Then complete a final walk-through to confirm that the property is in the agreed-upon condition. Lastly, gather all required documents so you’re prepared for closing day. If you need more guidance on buying a home, we’re here to help.

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By Amy Newcomer • January 30, 2026

Bring Texture Into Your Winter Home Style

By Amy Newcomer • January 28, 2026
Winter décor feels more inviting when you mix in a variety of textures. Since we spend more time indoors during the colder months, adding cozy and visually interesting materials can make any room warmer and more appealing. Chunky knit blankets, textured sweaters, or soft faux fur add comfort and break up plain spaces. Shiny fabrics—like velvet or metallic accents—add brightness and a touch of elegance. You can also use rough or ruffled pieces, along with items like faux leaves or tinsel, to bring in extra depth and dimension. Experiment with one or two special textures in each room to create a cozy, rich, and winter-ready atmosphere.

Install a Flip Cover for Your Outdoor Outlet

By Amy Newcomer • January 26, 2026
If you often rely on an outdoor outlet for speakers or seasonal lighting, keeping it protected from damp weather is important. Moisture can damage the receptacle and lower its safety over time. A practical solution is adding a trap-door style cover. This type of cover stays closed when the outlet isn’t in use and lifts easily whenever you need to plug something in. It’s a simple upgrade that keeps your outdoor outlets dry, safe, and ready whenever you need power.

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By Amy Newcomer • January 23, 2026

Use Caulk to Keep Indoor Air From Escaping

By Amy Newcomer • January 21, 2026
Refreshing the caulk around your windows and doors is one of the simplest ways to maintain your home. Good caulking helps keep indoor air inside and stops insects from slipping through small gaps. Over time, caulk can dry out and crack, creating openings that let air escape and pests enter. Fixing it is low-cost and can help reduce your energy bill. Make it a habit to inspect all windows and doors, inside and outside, and replace any caulk that is peeling or worn. Caulk made for damp areas is also ideal for bathrooms—sealing the sink, tub, and toilet prevents moisture from reaching walls and flooring, helping you avoid mold and mildew problems.

Simplify Your Kitchen Storage with Office Organizers

By Amy Newcomer • January 19, 2026
Tired of digging through piles of cookie sheets and cutting boards? Stacking them can waste space and damage their surfaces. A quick fix is to use office file organizers inside your cabinets. Metal file holders fit easily into lower cabinets and, with a rubber shelf liner underneath, stay firmly in place. They let you store baking pans, trays, and boards vertically, keeping everything organized and protected. Choose a sturdy file organizer that suits your cookware size, and enjoy a tidy, hassle-free cabinet.

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By Amy Newcomer • January 15, 2026

Maintain and Upgrade Your Kitchen Appliances

By Amy Newcomer • January 13, 2026
Improving your kitchen’s energy efficiency often starts with your major appliances. If your refrigerator, dishwasher, or oven is over 10 years old or not Energy Star certified, it may be worth replacing. Older models typically use more power and water just to operate, increasing your utility bills. Although new appliances require an upfront cost, the long-term savings can be substantial — and modern designs can instantly refresh your kitchen’s appearance. But upgrading is only part of the process. To keep appliances running efficiently for years, clean them regularly and follow the manufacturer’s maintenance guidelines. Proper care ensures better performance and a longer lifespan.

Common Winter Home Repairs to Watch For

By Amy Newcomer • January 9, 2026
Different seasons bring different risks for your home, and winter often leads to issues that require extra attention. Staying aware of these problems can help you prevent costly damage. Roof repairs are especially common during colder months, often caused by leaks. Ice dams can build up along the roofline, allowing water to seep indoors. Furnace tune-ups also become more frequent as heating systems work harder in winter. In addition, gutters face a higher chance of damage and should be inspected regularly. For more guidance on protecting your home this winter, feel free to reach out to us.