For homeowners that are tired of wasting hard-earned money every month because the home is not energy efficient, several things can be done that would make a significant difference. The right money saving home improvements would create a better energy efficient home, save the homeowner money, and even increase the value of the property for selling the home in the future.

1. Seal the Home – One of the best money saving home improvements is for the homeowner to go through the home to make sure everything is sealed. A significant amount of money is lost each month due to cracks in the masonry or siding, through doors and windows that leak, or even openings through which power lines, cable lines, pipes, and vents are installed. Even the attic stairway, crawl spaces, and ductwork are areas that have to be sealed. Once air leaks are stopped, the amount of money saved would be tremendous.
2. Windows and Doors – While there is an expense in replacing windows and doors, this is another one of the top money saving home improvements. In fact, when old windows and doors are replaced, savings could be as much as 30%. The key is to find a company that sells Energy Star products or products that meet IECC specifications. That way, air would no longer be able to seep to the outside and often, homeowners can qualify for a federal tax credit using this type of improvement.
3. The next one of the great money saving home improvements is with the installation of a new roof. While this is an expensive improvement, in the long-run, the savings would be worth the investment. Of course, people should choose the highest quality roof they can afford but even one that is not rated at the top would make a substantial difference.
4. Water Heater – Many people overlook the water heater as being one of the top money saving home improvements but as much as 28% of the monthly bill is based on heating and cooling associated with the water heater. In addition to having an Energy Star unit installed, it would also be a good idea to have an insulator wrap added as well.
5. Heating and Air Conditioning – Another of the many money saving home improvements is to have the heating and air conditioning system updated. These should have a rating from the Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency, which would provide the best savings. Additionally, going with this type of system could also result in federal tax credits, rebates, and other incentives.
6. Caulking – One of lower cost options for money saving home improvements is for the homeowner to go around to every window and door and caulk them. This helps keep cool or warm air on the inside, thus saving money.
7. Thermostat – Homeowners can also replace the conventional style of thermostat with a programmable model. This way, the temperature could be set at 68 in the winter and 74 in the summer without the thermostat every changing.
8. Clothes Dryer – Money saving home improvements also involve the clothes dryer. For this, the conventional vent should be replaced with a vent seal. Additionally, the dryer should only be run early in the morning or later in the evening when outside temperatures are the coolest.
9. Filters – To increase energy efficiency in the home, even replacing the filters for the air conditioning and heating units twice a year makes a difference.
10. Lighting – Finally, something as simple as switching out incandescent light bulbs with LEDs or CFLs is a great option for money saving home improvements.