10 Simple Home Fixes That Save You Hundreds a Year
A few easy DIY fixes can stop energy leaks, reduce water bills, and extend the life of your appliances.
These simple upgrades don’t require a big budget or professional help, but they do make a big difference
over time. Here are 10 simple home fixes that can save you hundreds of dollars each year while making your
home more comfortable and efficient.
Seal Drafts Around Windows and Doors
Why it matters: Small air leaks force your heating or cooling system to work overtime.
The fix: Use weatherstripping or caulk to seal gaps and cracks. Door draft stoppers or foam tape can be added in minutes. Potential savings: Up to $200 per year on energy bills.
Replace Old Light Bulbs with LEDs
Why it matters: LED bulbs use up to 80% less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs.
The fix: Swap out your most-used lights first — kitchen, hallway, and living room. Potential savings: $75–$100 annually in electricity.
Install a Programmable or Smart Thermostat
Why it matters: A consistent temperature schedule cuts heating and cooling waste.
The fix: Set your thermostat to lower (in winter) or higher (in summer) when you’re away or asleep. Potential savings: $150 or more each year.
Clean Your Refrigerator Coils
Why it matters: Dusty coils make your fridge work harder, using more power.
The fix: Unplug the fridge, use a vacuum brush attachment to clean coils every 6 months. Potential savings: $50–$80 a year on electricity.
Fix Leaky Faucets and Toilets
Why it matters: A dripping faucet can waste 3,000+ gallons a year — that’s money down the drain!
The fix: Replace washers or flappers (easy $5 parts). Check for running toilets regularly. Potential savings: $60–$100 per year on water bills.
Clean or Replace HVAC Filters Regularly
Why it matters: Dirty filters strain your system and lower efficiency.
The fix: Replace filters every 1–3 months, depending on usage and pets. Potential savings: Up to $150 per year on energy and maintenance.
Add Faucet Aerators and Low-Flow Showerheads
Why it matters: They reduce water flow without sacrificing pressure.
The fix: Screw-on replacements take less than 5 minutes to install. Potential savings: $100 or more annually on water and heating costs.
Unplug “Energy Vampires”
Why it matters: Devices like TVs, chargers, and microwaves still use power when off.
The fix: Use power strips or unplug devices when not in use. Potential savings: $100–$200 per year.
Insulate Your Water Heater
Why it matters: Older water heaters lose heat quickly.
The fix: Wrap the tank in an insulating blanket (about $25 at hardware stores). Potential savings: $30–$50 per year on heating costs.
Maintain Your Weather-Dependent Appliances
Why it matters: Simple maintenance extends their lifespan.
The fix:
Clean dryer vents to prevent clogs and fires.
Flush your water heater once a year to remove sediment.
Check gutters to prevent roof damage.
Potential savings: Hundreds in avoided repair and replacement costs.
Final Thoughts
You don’t need a massive renovation to see big savings. With just a weekend and a few basic tools, you can cut costs,
reduce waste, and make your home more efficient.
Start small — pick two or three fixes this week — and you’ll see the savings grow month after month.