Are you contemplating taking advantage of the cooler Fall temperatures to complete some home improvement projects? You aren’t alone – this is a key DIY time for many Phoenix-area homeowners.

And you are probably not undertaking a home improvement project just for kicks and giggles – you want to get something out of it. If your goal is to reduce your energy bills, here are the home improvement projects that come with the highest payoff.

Upgrade Your Home’s Windows

Windows play a significant role in the energy efficiency of your home. For example, single-pane windows leak up to 75% of the sun’s heat into your home, according to ENERGY STAR. In a hot climate like Arizona, this can make a huge difference in your air conditioning bills.

ENERGY STAR also points out the key aspects of an energy-efficient window, including:

• Multiple panes – Rather than a single pane of glass, energy-efficient windows have multiple layers of glass with an insulating space in between them.
• Low-E coating – Most energy-efficient windows include a low-E coating on the glass that reduces heat transfer and improves energy efficiency.
• Gas fills – For even better energy efficiency, the space between the window panes can be filled with gasses like krypton or argon that insulate better than regular air.

Attic Insulation

Another great way to reduce your energy bills with a home improvement project is to add insulation to your attic. According to HGTV’s Front Door, insulating your home is tops on the list of energy efficient home projects for return on investment (ROI) and ENERGY STAR estimates you can save up to 30% a year on heating and cooling bills by increasing your insulation.

To get the most out of your attic insulation home improvement project, seal any air leaks in your home first. ENERGY STAR has a great guide on where to look for such air leaks.

Update Appliances

Not into big home improvement projects? You don’t have to renovate your home to make it more energy efficient – you can upgrade the appliances in it. Here are our top appliance upgrade recommendations that will reduce your energy consumption:

• • Refrigerator – Refrigerators are constantly on, so getting an energy efficient model can make a huge difference in your utility bills. Also, remember that one large refrigerator costs less to run than two smaller ones.

• Air conditioner/heater – ENERGY STAR estimates that up to half of your energy bill goes to heating and cooling your home. Upgrading to a more energy efficient air conditioner and/or heater can save you a lot of money in the long run.
• Washer and dryer – Another appliance upgrade that can save you a significant amount is your washer and dryer. Newer models use up to 50% less energy than models 10-years old or older.

Along with cooler temperatures, home improvement projects are right around the corner in the Phoenix area. If you want to reduce your home’s energy consumption, these three projects are the best place to start.

Fountain Hills Air is the leading air conditioning and heating company in the Phoenix area. For more information on any of our products or services, contact us online.