Do-it-yourself energy improvements

Start with the small things

There are a lot of simple things you can do to reduce your energy use, and small things can add up to make a big difference. Small things like replacing incandescent light bulbs with compact fluorescent light bulbs, washing clothes in cold water, and caulking and weather sealing your home can add up to big savings.

Evaluate your home’s energy use

You can audit your home’s energy use by using an on-line home energy calculator. ENERGY STAR’s Home Energy Yardstick  allows you to enter information specific to your home, and then advises you on home energy improvements that should save you money.

Consider home improvements that you can do yourself

Efficiency Maine offers tips to become more energy efficient and financial incentives (such as rebates, instant discounts, and loans) that can make upgrading to a high-efficiency system more affordable. Learn more about on Efficiency Maine's website . 

The Governor's Office of Energy Independence and Security, University of Maine Cooperative Extension, MaineHousing have created a Do-It-Yourself Guide  that may help you save money on home heating.

The University of Maine Cooperative Extension publishes Maine Home Energy, a series of bulletins designed to help Mainers keep warm, save money, heat safely, and conserve energy. The bulletins can be freely downloaded at their website . Printed copies can be purchased by calling 800-287-0274 (in Maine) or 207-581-3792.

In addition, the ENERGY STAR website offers several do-it-yourself  weatherization techniques such as insulation and air sealing.