Upgrade Your Home to ENERGY STAR Status

Learn how energy efficiency improvements and electric technologies can power savings and sustainability in your home.

Every American household can play a part in improving our environment while saving money at the same time. That's why the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) created ENERGY STAR^® Home Upgrade, a series of energy-efficient improvements based around electric technologies. Combined, these improvements could save the average house $500 a year on energy bills, according to the EPA.

6 steps to sustainability and savings

ENERGY STAR Home Upgrade is a set of six home improvement measures designed to work together to reduce energy costs and help households transition from fossil fuels for safer, healthier and more comfortable homes.

1. Install a heat pump for heating and cooling.

ENERGY STAR-certified heat pumps provide energy-efficient and reliable year-round comfort. Powered by electricity, they move heat in and out of your home, rather than create it, like a fossil-fueled furnace.

2. Switch to a heat pump water heater.

These devices use heat pump technology to provide highly efficient hot water. ENERGY STAR-certified heat pump water heaters can save the average household up to $300 a year or more on energy costs, according to the EPA.

3. Get smart about temperature control.

Heating and cooling make up nearly half of the annual energy costs for the average household. Smart thermostats can help significantly reduce those costs while adding convenience through advanced features, such as self-programming and remote control.

4. Seal up your attic.

Conditioned air and your energy dollars can escape through leaks in your attic. A well-sealed and insulated attic can save you money and increase the comfort of your home. See here for more information about weatherizing your attic and other parts of your home.

5. Bring window efficiency into view.

Replacing older windows with ENERGY STAR-certified models can reduce your energy costs by up to 12%, according to the EPA. ENERGY STAR-certified storm windows present a more affordable option if a full replacement is too expensive.

6. Wire your home for electric vehicles.

Electricity is powering the future of transportation. Get ahead by pre-wiring your home to charge electric vehicles. Decide what type of charging station you'll need (Level 1 or Level 2) and where it would be (garage or driveway. Then, hire a qualified electrician to check your electrical capacity and install the wiring.

See the ENERGY STAR Home Upgrade website for more information and resources about implementing these improvements. Energy efficiency combined with electric technologies can help power your home and the planet to a brighter future.