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Consider a program such as EUC's Home Upgrade to assist as you assess and address your home's energy needs. When you look at your home as a complete system, and then bundle at least three energy efficiency improvements, you will realize maximum savings and reduce energy use to make your home more comfortable. Examples of upgrade improvements include air sealing, duct sealing, high-efficiency appliances (furnaces, air conditioners, and/or hot water heaters), energy-efficient windows, and insulation (attic, wall, floor and/or ducts).

For example, consider switching to a new furnace or air conditioning unit. It will keep your house warm or cool and use less energy if you also seal the air ducts and install energy-efficient windows to eliminate drafts. Heating your home is the leading energy expense, accounting for more than half of your monthly natural gas bill if you have a natural gas furnace, or more than 40% of your electric bill, if your heating system is electric.

While customers may be eligible for incentives exceeding $5,500 based on their calculated energy savings, a good rule of thumb is to consider that an average rebate with a minimum of three qualifying measures will be $2,300 and cover approximately 15% of the project costs. Work with your participating contractor or rater to calculate your upgrade's incentive.

Since every home is different, participating contractors can help you select which options would be best based on the needs and energy saving goals for your home. Together you can develop a customized plan to select upgrades that meet with your home efficiency goals and your budget.

For more information, visit energyupgradeca.org.

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