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
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.