With a few smart steps, you can cut down on energy bills, keep your home cozy, and do the planet a favor—all at the same time. From simple tweaks to bigger investments that benefit you in the long run, these six energy-saving strategies will help you live more comfortably while using less.
Conduct a Home Energy Assessment
Understanding your home’s energy usage is the first step toward making effective improvements. CenterPoint Energy and Xcel Energy offer the Home Energy Squad program, which provides home visits that may include energy assessments and direct installation of low-cost energy efficiency measures. These visits are free for income-qualified customers.
Enhance Your Home’s Insulation
Keep the good air in! Proper insulation helps your heating and cooling system to work smarter, not harder. Upgrading your home’s insulation can prevent cool air from escaping during the summer and warm air during the winter. CenterPoint offers rebates for attic insulation, wall insulation, and air sealing.
Install a Programmable or Smart Thermostat
Set it and forget it! Upgrading to a programmable or smart thermostat allows you to optimize your home’s temperature settings based on your schedule, leading to significant energy savings. CenterPoint provides rebates of up to $50 for eligible thermostat models.
Open up the Shutters
This summer take full advantage of the longer daylight hours by maximizing natural light and airflow in your home. Turn off overhead lights, open the windows, and let the sunshine flood your space while a refreshing breeze keeps things cool and fresh. It’s an easy, energy-saving way to brighten your day and keep your home comfortable.
Use Energy-Efficient Appliances
Summer is a great time to consider upgrading to energy-efficient appliances, like dishwashers, refrigerators, and washing machines. These appliances use less energy to perform the same tasks, which can reduce your energy bills over time. When shopping, look for the ENERGY STAR® label, which indicates the product meets energy efficiency guidelines set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
Upgrade to a High-Efficiency Water Heater
Did you know that water heating can account for a significant portion of your energy bill? Upgrading to a high-efficiency natural gas water heater can save you both energy and money. CenterPoint offers rebates of up to $250 on qualifying high-efficiency water heaters, helping to offset the upfront cost. With this upgrade, you’ll enjoy hot water on demand without the high energy costs—perfect for those long morning showers!
By taking advantage of these rebates and programs, you can make energy-efficient upgrades that not only reduce your environmental impact but also lead to valuable cost savings over time. For more detailed information and to apply for these rebates, visit CenterPoint Energy’s Residential Energy Efficiency Rebates and Programs.
