Every homeowner is looking for a little more. A little more cash in their pocket and a little more comfort in their home. Luckily, making energy-efficient home improvements accomplish both!

According to a report from the Washington Post homes with these energy efficient upgrades also increase the value of their home!

"In 2014, upgraded homes in Los Angeles County saw a 6 percent increase in value, according to a study from Build It Green, a nonprofit based in Oakland, California, that works with home professionals. Upgraded homes in Washington, D.C., saw a 2 percent to 5 percent increase in 2015."

To help, here are some of the best energy-efficient home improvement projects that will make a difference.

1. Energy Audits Outline Energy Efficient Improvements

First and foremost, homeowners that are serious about making energy-efficient upgrades should have an experienced professional conduct a home energy audit. The Washington Post explains how they help:

"Getting a quick energy assessment or a more thorough energy audit can determine how much energy your home uses, as well as which upgrades would make the most sense for your home and your finances. An audit may include an energy rating, a number that indicates how energy-efficient your home is and how much it will increase if you make recommended upgrades."

This is the absolute best way to find out where your home needs improving because an auditor will come in and test things in your home like door and windows for leaks, your water heater, furnace, and air conditioning units.

Not sure if you need or qualify for a Home Comfort and Energy Checkup? Give us a call to schedule a FREE Assessment and let one of our Energy Advisors determine the efficiency of your home.

2. Ensure Efficient Water Heaters

Heating, cooling, and hot water take up quite a lot of our home energy usage - more than half! If you look at that in terms of your utility bills, the spending could be frightening. But, the savings can be fantastic as well. Keeping up with your heating and cooling systems throughout the year is a vital step to keep costs and energy usage under control!

Stay ahead of those problems by making sure your water heater is in good repair. If you are not sure, then it is important to understand how a water heater fits your needs.

3. Add Energy Efficient Lighting

Lighting has made remarkable improvements over the years and energy efficient light bulbs are a leading way to reduce energy usage, while saving money. The old incandescent bulbs used up a lot more energy than the halogen incandescent, CFL and LED bulbs you can find today.

These bulbs use less energy and last longer, which means one less thing to worry about this winter!

4. Upgrade to Energy Efficient Appliances

Consider upgrading your appliances. From washers to dryers and dishwashers, appliances are running non-stop during many homes all year.

By upgrading to energy-efficient appliances you can cut costs and save energy while limiting your carbon footprint.

5. Consider Smart Thermostats

The last thing you should be worrying about is your thermostat. The world outside our home does not remain a consistent temperature all day, why should the inside? As the day warms up outside, we want to lower the temperature inside. At night we may want it a bit cooler. No one wants to run to the thermostat every few hours, but that is the reality with most homes.

If you would like to leave the worry of overheating and cooling to someone (or something) else, then you may want to consider having a smart thermostat installed in your home.