Living in Salt Lake City means experiencing all four seasons—scorching summers, freezing winters, and everything in between. With energy costs on the rise, making your home more efficient isn’t just good for the environment—it’s great for your wallet. If you’re looking to cut down on utility bills while increasing your home’s value, these energy-efficient upgrades will actually save you money.
1. Smart Thermostats: Big Savings with Small Adjustments
Utah’s temperature swings can wreak havoc on your heating and cooling bills. A smart thermostat can learn your schedule and adjust temperatures automatically. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, homeowners can save up to 10% per year on heating and cooling by simply lowering their thermostat by 7-10 degrees for eight hours a day.
SLC Bonus: Many local utility providers offer rebates for installing energy-saving thermostats.
2. Upgrade to Energy-Efficient Windows
Older homes in Salt Lake City, especially those in historic districts like the Avenues or Sugar House, often have single-pane windows that let heat escape in winter and trap it in summer. Upgrading to double- or triple-pane, low-E glass windows can cut down on energy loss and significantly lower your heating and cooling bills.
SLC Bonus: Check for rebates through Utah’s Home Energy Savings program to offset installation costs.
3. Seal and Insulate: A Low-Cost, High-Impact Upgrade
Many SLC homes—especially those built before the 1980s—have insufficient insulation. Adding insulation to your attic, walls, and basement can lead to 15% savings on heating and cooling.
DIY Hack: Caulking and weather-stripping doors and windows can help reduce drafts and improve comfort without a big investment.
4. Swap Out Old Appliances for ENERGY STAR Models
From fridges to washing machines, older appliances are notorious for wasting energy. ENERGY STAR-rated appliances use up to 50% less energy, meaning you’ll see instant savings on your utility bills.
SLC Bonus: Many local utility providers offer cash rebates when you replace old appliances with energy-efficient models.
5. Switch to LED Lighting
Still using incandescent bulbs? LED bulbs use at least 75% less energy and last 25 times longer than traditional bulbs. Replacing the five most-used lights in your home with LEDs can save you around $75 per year on electricity.
Quick Tip: Focus on kitchen, living room, and entryway lighting first for the biggest impact.
6. Solar Panels: A Long-Term Investment with Big Returns
Salt Lake City gets over 220 sunny days per year, making solar panels a smart investment. While upfront costs can be high, Utah offers state tax credits of up to $400 plus federal incentives to help offset costs. Most homeowners see their electricity bills drop significantly, with some even earning credits for excess energy.
SLC Bonus: Many utility providers offer battery storage incentives to help homeowners store solar energy for additional savings.
7. Install a Tankless Water Heater
Traditional water heaters constantly heat and reheat water, even when you’re not using it. A tankless water heater only heats water when needed, cutting energy costs by up to 30%.
Pro Tip: If a full replacement isn’t in the budget, simply lowering your water heater’s temperature to 120°F can save money.
The Bottom Line
Energy-efficient upgrades are an investment, but the right changes can pay for themselves in savings while increasing your home’s value. Whether you start small with LED bulbs or go big with solar panels, these upgrades will help keep more money in your pocket while making your Salt Lake City home more comfortable and eco-friendly.
Want more home efficiency tips? Follow along every Hump Day for more Home Hacks!
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