Home Energy Spotlight: Save money and energy at home with these DIY tipsÂ
High interest rates and soaring home prices have plenty of people making big changes to their current homes, rather than trying to enter the tough real estate market. With home improvement projects happening year-round, there’s help for Oregon homeowners who may be their own handyman. Energy Trust of Oregon is a nonprofit that helps people, businesses and communities use less energy and save money. They include offers like:Â
Direct Purchase Discounts:Savings are immediately applied when purchasing qualifying equipment at participating Oregon retailers. You can find these onEnergy Trust’s website, including retailers offering discounts on products likewashers and dryersandsmart thermostats.
Rebates:Homeowners can apply online after completing an approved upgrade and receive a check in the mail.
Easy wins: DIY projects to start now
For homeowners and renters looking for simple, immediate savings, Energy Trust recommends starting with routine DIY projects and taking a free 20-minuteonline home assessmentto figure out which projects and areas to prioritize. These simple steps can reduce energy bills over time and may qualify for incentives:
Seal Air Leaks:Apply weather stripping to drafty doors and windows, and use caulking around cracks near ducts, pipes and exhaust fans to reduce air flow and protect air quality.
Upgrade Lighting:Switch frequently used areas like kitchens and bathrooms to LED lighting for a simple, self-installed change that delivers immediate energy savings.
Maintain Systems:Regularly clean or replaceair filtersin home heating and cooling systems and clear any debris from outdoor units.
Check Your Water Heater:Inspect and drain water heating tanks annually to prevent the buildup of silt and sediment.
Bigger projects offer bigger returns
Seasoned DIYers can tackle larger upgrades that lead to significant long-term savings, including:
Heat Pump Water Heaters:Also known as hybrid water heaters, these use two to three times less energy than standard electric heaters. Through Energy Trust, homeowners can get up to a $700 instant discount on select models.
Insulation:Considered one of the most cost-effective ways to make your home more comfortable, insulation is key to cutting heating and cooling expenses. Homeowners can save up to $2.25 per square foot with Energy Trust incentives.
For major installations likeheat pumps,central ACornew windows, homeowners should workdirectly with a contractor. These experts can make sure the job is done correctly while making sure you are still taking advantage of all financial help that’s available.Â
Homeowners can visitEnergy Trust of Oregon’s websitefor complete guidelines and eligibility requirements before beginning any project.
About Energy Trust of Oregon Â
Energy Trust of Oregon is an independent nonprofit created to help people, organizations, and communities save energy and connect to renewable power like solar. Funded by customers ofPortland General Electric,Pacific Power,NW Natural,Cascade Natural GasandAvista, Energy Trust services lower energy costs and help communities and utilities achieve their clean energy goals and build a strong future for Oregon. Learn more atwww.energytrust.org/residential/incentives. Â
