An Energy Saving Tip for Each Month of 2013

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Inflated energy bills got you down? To help you cut back at home, the Alliance to Save Energy compiled a list of 12 conservation tips, one for each month of 2013. The average U.S. household spends a whopping $5,550 per year on energy costs, according to the Alliance. But by following these basic reminders all year long, you can save loads of wasted energy and cut more than $2,500 from your annual fuel and utility bills.

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March: Spring is Coming

window, install, installation, new, windows, installer, repairman, contractor, construction,

Photo: Flickr/Andersen Windows

power strip, power, strip, cord, plug, energy, electricity, surge protector,

skype, screenshot, screen, shot, capture, calling, international, contacts,

driving, man, drive, car, highway, road trip, alone, steering wheel, rear view mirror, driver, guy

air conditioner, air conditioners, condenser, condensers, unit, units, outdoor, outside, outdoors, backyard, yard, apartment, balcony

caulk, caulking, window, weatherize, weatherizing, weatherization, winterize, winterizing, winterization, energy efficiency, caulking gun, windows

thermostat, air conditioner, heat, programmable,

kitchen, apartment, refrigerator, new, fridge, cabinets, condo,

water, heater, hot, water heater, basement

repairman, home energy audit, inspection, home, inspector, electrician, hard hat, man,

CFL, compact, fluorescent, light bulb, light bulbs, CFLs, energy efficient, energy efficiency,

carpooling, carpool, friends, driving, young people, teens, teenagers, car, people, women, men

With spring right around the corner, homeowners across the nation will be itching to open their windows this March.

Before you throw open your shutters to mark the season, the Alliance to Save Energy suggests ensuring your windows are as efficient as possible by replacing single-pane windows with Energy Star-qualified models.

While the long-term savings will be well worth it (the Alliance estimates making the switch saves up to $1,000 annually), the up-front investment that comes with new windows is enough to dissuade many homeowners.

Help reduce your up-front costs by making the most of tax breaks and incentives that are available in your area. Head over to the Database of State Incentives for Renewables & Efficiency (DSIRE) to browse federal, state and local incentives that apply to you, and make your eco upgrade a reality without breaking the bank.

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