A home energy audit is often a good first step. Many utility companies offer this service free or for a very low charge to their customers. A home energy audit will help you learn what you can improve or change to better the overall energy efficiency of your home. This might be as simple as weather stripping your windows and doors or as involved as replacing windows, adding insulation or replacing appliances.

If you need to replace appliances or heating and cooling systems, this can be a great time to increase your home's overall energy efficiency. Modern appliances are often much more energy efficient than older ones, and you can also choose features and options to reduce water usage, overall power usage and more. Many energy experts suggest replacing furnaces and air conditioning units older than ten years for maximum energy efficiency. Many companies make use of the energy star designation to mark energy efficient appliances; however, even within energy star appliances, you will find different levels of efficiency. The energy star designation is controlled by the US Environmental Protection Agency, so it is a standard upon which you can rely.

There are many steps to improving your home's energy efficiency that have nothing at all to do with your appliances, or even with your heating and cooling system. Some of these improvements are quite affordable, while others may be more expensive and labor intensive. Two of the most important energy efficient home improvements you can make are reducing air leaks and adding insulation. While replacing all your single paned windows is expensive, adding foam strips and taping up drafts will cost next to nothing. Adding insulation is often reasonably affordable, and can greatly increase your energy efficiency. Changes like upgraded windows and additional insulation can also make your home much more appealing to a potential buyer.

Another change that is often both affordable and important is sealing and improving ductwork. Inadequate or leaky ductwork in your home can lead to energy loss, and often may be easily fixed. Sometimes this is even a viable do it yourself project. Insulating ductwork, particularly in attics and crawlspaces can also reduce your heat and cooling expenses. In some homes, it may be wise to improve ductwork altogether to allow for better air flow.

Whether your investment is small or large, improving your home's energy efficiency will reduce your utility costs, save money, and be better for the environment. If you make larger improvements, such as replacing heating or cooling systems, installing additional insulation, or replacing windows, these changes can make your home much more desirable to potential buyers. In today's world of high energy costs and environmental awareness, an environmentally and financially friendly home will be a desirable one.