If a particular project sounds fun and easy, do it soon.

The first thing to do, he says, is to build really airtight walls and really insulated walls.

Once you do that, put in really efficient equipment, such as water heaters and lights.

Check outthese tips from the US Department of Energyon how to do your own energy audit.

We also haveour own guide here.

Snap photos from the outside of the building or walk around inside on a cold night.

(The photos will be useful later when you are prioritizing work.)

If you are into gadgets, this one is fun and will pay for itself.

Define your houses envelope

One of the first things to think about is your homesbuilding envelope.

Thats basically the line between indoors and outdoors.

Is your attic inside or outside the living space that you heat and cool?

How about a basement or crawlspace?

Well start at the top.

But here are somelikely placesfor majorair drafts.

Its painstaking work but it makes a huge difference.

The data is very clear.

Thats the biggest bang for your buck… Because thats generally where we are losing most of our energy.

An attic is usually outside the building envelope and vented to the outside.

Cold breezes from a light fixture, for example, can create uncomfortable drafts.

Its like leaving a window open.

If you put your face next to a light switch you might feel a tiny breeze.

But first, stop air flow at the source.

Or hire someone to do it.Heres howits done.

Then celebrate together and plan what to do next.

Alternatively, it’s possible for you to pay someone to blow in insulation that covers everything.

Its like having a down blanket over your house.

Once the attic is sealed and insulated, the home will be warmer, less drafty, and quieter.

Pat yourself on the back and enjoy your cozier home!

This is pretty easy.

Next tackle weatherstrippingdoorsand windows, which scores of YouTube videos offer to explain.

(If you want to go all nerdy on the best weatherstripping, check outConservation Technology.)

If your appliances are electric, you will eventually be able to run them without fossil fuels.

But if they run on gas, you will always be burning fuel.

In the long run, thats more expensive for you and for the planet.

If your gas water heater needs replacing, choose an electricheat pump water heater.

Replace a furnace with a system ofductless mini splits.

Plug electronics into power bars that can be shut off when not in use.

And, yes, replace old light bulbs with LEDs.

Every house is different and everyone has different finances and considerations.

So, before you begin, think about why you want to make your home more energy efficient.

Is it to save money and feel more comfortable?

Or is it to get to net zero?

For example, a new gas furnace might be cheaper than electric ductless minisplits, depending on your house.

Curtains are great if thats the right choice for you.

Amazingly often, that saves you money in the long run and reduces your carbon footprint too.