How To Make Your Home More Energy Efficient
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Improving your home’s energy efficiency lowers utility bills, reduces environmental impact, and makes your living spaces more comfortable year-round. Below, we’ll walk through practical upgrades and room-by-room tips—plus highlight rebates, tax incentives, and local NJ programs that can make these changes more affordable.
1. Schedule a Professional Energy Audit
Before making upgrades, start with an energy audit. An audit involves a professional technician evaluating your home’s insulation, ductwork, appliances, and HVAC system. Common steps include:
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Blower door test – measures air leaks around windows, doors, and ductwork.
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Thermal imaging – identifies insulation gaps.
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Efficiency scoring – benchmarks your home’s performance.
Getting an audit from A.J. Perri helps you prioritize improvements, and often qualifies you for state or federal rebates.
2. Take Advantage of Incentives & Tax Credits
Thanks to the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), homeowners can receive rebates and tax credits on a wide range of upgrades. The Database of State Incentives for Renewables & Efficiency (DSIRE) also lists local offers.
For New Jersey residents, the NJ Clean Energy Program provides rebates for:
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ENERGY STAR® HVAC systems
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High-efficiency water heaters
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Home insulation and air sealing
These savings can significantly reduce upfront costs and improve ROI on your efficiency projects.
3. Upgrade Your HVAC System
Regular maintenance helps, but in many cases, replacement offers the greatest savings. Consider:
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High-efficiency SEER2 air conditioners
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Heat pumps (energy-efficient heating + cooling in one unit)
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Smart zoning systems to optimize comfort room by room
A.J. Perri’s technicians can recommend the best upgrade path for your home.
4. Install Smart-Home Technology
Outdated tips like switching to CFL bulbs are no longer enough. Today’s smart-home tools give you real-time control and monitoring:
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Smart thermostats – learn your schedule and cut unnecessary heating/cooling.
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Smart plugs & power strips – eliminate phantom loads.
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Smart LED networks – provide energy-efficient lighting plus app-based control.
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Energy dashboards – track usage and spot waste.
5. Choose ENERGY STAR® Appliances
When replacing appliances, always look for the ENERGY STAR® label. Upgrades like refrigerators, washers, and dishwashers can save hundreds annually.
Quick Tip Table:
| Appliance | What to Look For | Efficiency Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator | ENERGY STAR®, automatic defrost | Clean coils twice a year |
| Dishwasher | ENERGY STAR® | Run full loads & air-dry |
| Washer/Dryer | ENERGY STAR® high-efficiency models | Wash in cold water |
6. Consider Renewable Energy Options
Even small steps toward renewables can pay off. Solar panels are increasingly accessible, and New Jersey offers specific solar incentives through the Clean Energy Program. Homeowners researching whole-home efficiency solutions in 2025 expect to see renewable options included -- making this a smart next step.
7. Upgrade Windows & Doors
Weather-stripping helps, but larger improvements deliver greater results:
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Low-E glass windows reduce heat transfer.
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High-performance doors with insulated cores limit drafts.
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Proper installation prevents leaks around frames.
These upgrades improve comfort and cross-sell naturally with insulation and HVAC improvements.
8. Room-by-Room Energy Efficiency Tips
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Kitchen: Use ENERGY STAR® appliances, cover pots when cooking, and unplug small devices when not in use.
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Living Room: Use ceiling fans strategically -- set clockwise in winter, counterclockwise in summer.
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Bedrooms: Program thermostats to reduce heating/cooling at night.
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Basement/Attic: Seal ductwork, add insulation, and check for moisture issues.
9. Don’t Overlook Phantom Loads & Fans
Electronics in standby mode still use energy -- called “phantom loads.” According to Direct Energy, phantom loads can account for 5–10% of your monthly bill. Combine smart plugs with efficient ceiling fans to maximize savings.
10. Improve Outdoor Efficiency Too
Landscaping isn’t just cosmetic -- it’s strategic.
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Plant trees to shade windows and block summer heat.
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Shade your AC unit to help it run more efficiently.
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Use native plants to cut water use and improve sustainability.
Why Choose A.J. Perri?
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Local expertise: Knowledge of NJ rebates and Clean Energy Program options.
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Trusted reputation: See our Google Reviews.
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Certified technicians: Backed by DOE and EPA-recommended best practices.
Ready to take the first step? Schedule an energy audit or consultation today and start saving on your energy bills while improving home comfort.