How Do You Make Your House More Energy Efficient? 26 Fool-Proof Ways

Key Points of This Article:

• Energy efficiency is about reducing wasted energy while keeping your home comfortable year-round. 

• In Midwest homes, sealing air leaks and improving insulation often deliver the biggest energy savings first. 

• Simple, safe DIY upgrades can improve efficiency, while more complex work should be handled by licensed professionals. 

• Both older and newer homes can waste energy, but targeted improvements help reduce loss and improve comfort over time. 

• Pairing home efficiency upgrades with predictable energy planning can make managing energy costs easier and less stressful.

What Energy Efficiency Really Means for Your Home 

When a home is energy efficient, temperatures feel more even from room to room, drafts are reduced, and the thermostat doesn't need constant adjusting.  

Energy efficiency means using less energy to stay comfortable. An energy-efficient home holds heat inside during the winter, stays cooler in the summer, and allows heating and cooling systems to do their job without running longer than they need to. 

The more energy efficient your home is, the less energy it needs to stay comfortable, which can help reduce energy costs over time without sacrificing comfort. 

How Homes in the Midwest Use Energy 

Homes in the Midwest use energy mainly to replace heat that escapes throughout the year. Warm air naturally leaks out through walls, attics, basements, and windows, especially in older homes, and energy is used to keep indoor temperatures steady. 

Most energy goes toward heating the home, followed by heating water for daily use. Electricity is then used for cooling, appliances, and lighting. Because heating systems run for long periods, even small air leaks or insulation gaps can cause annual energy costs to rise by $200 to $400, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. 

That's why drafts, cold floors, and uneven room temperatures are common warning signs. When heat escapes, your heating system has to work harder to make up for it. This is also why sealing air leaks, improving insulation, and maintaining heating systems are often the most effective first steps, because keeping heat inside reduces energy use across the entire home. 

How Do You Make Your House More Energy Efficient? 

Making your house more energy efficient is about reducing wasted energy while keeping your home comfortable in every season. If you've ever wondered how to make home energy efficient without tackling major upgrades all at once, it starts with focusing on the areas where energy is most often lost.  

Below are practical tips on how to make your home energy efficient, so you can focus on what matters most first and make improvements with confidence: 

1. Stop Air Leaks Around Doors, Windows, and Visible Gaps 

Air leaks allow heated or cooled air to escape, which forces your HVAC system to run longer just to maintain comfort. Over time, this leads to higher energy use and noticeable hot or cold spots throughout the home.  

Sealing these gaps helps your home hold on to conditioned air longer, allowing it to use energy more efficiently. Common materials you can use are caulk, weatherstripping, and a caulking gun. 

2. Seal Air Leaks in Basements, Attics, and Rim Joists 

Basements and attics are major escape routes for warm air, especially in Midwest homes. If neglected, heat loss through these areas drives higher winter energy bills and cold floors.  

Sealing rim joists, attic hatches, and plumbing or wiring penetrations helps stop heat loss at the source. Materials typically include expanding spray foam, rigid foam board, and a utility knife. 

3. Add Insulation to the Attic 

Attic insulation slows heat loss in winter and limits heat gain in summer. Without enough insulation, heat escapes quickly and your heating system has to work harder than necessary.  

Improving attic insulation helps stabilize indoor temperatures and supports energy efficiency year-round. To insulate your attic, you can use fiberglass batts, blown-in cellulose, or rigid foam, depending on the attic's layout. 

4. Seal and Insulate Ductwork in Unconditioned Spaces 

Leaky ducts can lose heated or cooled air before it reaches living spaces, especially when ducts run through basements or attics. When duct leaks are ignored, rooms feel uneven and HVAC systems run longer than needed.  

Sealing joints with mastic or foil HVAC tape and insulating exposed ducts helps deliver air more efficiently. The materials you need are mastic sealant, foil tape, and duct insulation sleeves. 

5. Change HVAC Air Filters Regularly 

Dirty air filters restrict airflow, making heating and cooling systems work harder and less efficiently. If neglected, energy use increases and equipment lifespan shortens.  

Replacing filters every one to three months, depending on usage, helps systems run smoothly. All you need are properly sized replacement filters. 

6. Clear and Unblock Air Vents and Returns 

Blocked vents interrupt airflow and can lead to uneven temperatures from room to room. When air can't move freely, your HVAC system has to run longer to compensate, which wastes energy.  

Make sure vents and returns aren't blocked by furniture, rugs, or dust buildups. This is usually a quick fix and often just takes a vacuum or a soft brush. 

7. Maintain Outdoor HVAC Units  

Outdoor air conditioners and heat pumps need open airflow to release heat properly. When leaves, dirt, or overgrown plants pile up, efficiency drops and energy use climbs.  

Clearing the area around the unit at least once per season helps it run as intended. To make your hands clean, use gloves, a garden hose, and basic yard tools. 

8. Schedule Annual HVAC Maintenance 

Heating and cooling systems naturally lose efficiency as parts get dirty or wear down. Skipping regular maintenance can lead to higher energy use and surprise breakdowns.  

Scheduling a professional tune-up once a year helps keep everything running safely and efficiently. This requires a licensed HVAC professional. 

9. Install and Use a Programmable or Smart Thermostat Correctly 

Programmable and smart thermostats help cut energy waste by adjusting temperatures when you're asleep or away. Without one, systems often run at full comfort settings all day.  

Setting modest temperature setbacks and letting the system operate steadily helps maintain comfort without overworking it. If you're installing one, you'll typically need a compatible thermostat and basic installation tools. 

10. Avoid Extreme Thermostat Adjustments

Cranking the thermostat up or down doesn't heat or cool your home faster. HVAC systems work at a steady pace, so big temperature swings simply make them run longer. Smaller, gradual adjustments help maintain comfort while avoiding unnecessary energy use and wear on the system. 

11. Adjust Clothing Layers Before Changing the Thermostat

Wearing season-appropriate layers can go a long way toward staying comfortable without increasing heating or cooling demand. When this habit is overlooked, homeowners often adjust the thermostat for minor discomfort, which adds unnecessary energy use.  

Adding a sweater or removing a layer is an easy way to stay comfortable without touching the thermostat. 

12. Improve Water Heating Efficiency

Water heating is the second-largest energy expense in most homes, accounting for about 18% of household energy use, according to the U.S. Department of Energy, especially in households with frequent laundry, dishwashing, and daily showers. Improving water heating efficiency helps reduce energy use without changing comfort.  

Wrapping an older water heater in insulation helps limit heat loss, especially in unheated basements. Insulating exposed hot water pipes keep water hot longer and reduces reheating. Lowering the water heater temperature to a safe setting also cuts wasted energy and reduces scalding risk.  

These upgrades usually involve a water heater blanket, foam pipe insulation, and a few basic tools. 

13. Use Low-Flow Showerheads and Faucets

Low-flow fixtures reduce hot water use without sacrificing comfort, which helps lower water heating energy use. Ignoring this upgrade can quietly increase energy and water costs over time.  

Replacing fixtures with WaterSense–labeled models helps reduce water use by about 20% while maintaining strong performance and water pressure. Most replacements only require a new fixture and simple household tools. 

14. Wash Clothes in Cold Water

About 90% of the energy used for laundry goes toward heating water, making it one of the most energy-intensive parts of washing clothes. Washing in hot water increases energy use without providing major cleaning benefits for most everyday loads. Switching to cold water helps reduce energy use while keeping clothes clean. 

15. Run Dishwashers and Washing Machines with Full Loads

Running dishwashers and washing machines with partial loads wastes electricity, hot water, and detergent because each cycle uses nearly the same amount of energy regardless of load size.  

Waiting until machines are full helps maximize efficiency per cycle and reduces the number of runs each week. When available, using eco or energy-saving modes can further lower energy and water use without affecting cleaning performance. 

16. Upgrade to ENERGY STAR Certified Appliances When Replacing Old Ones

Older appliances often use significantly more electricity and water than newer models, especially refrigerators, washers, and dishwashers that run daily.  

When replacement is necessary, choosing ENERGY STAR–certified appliances can lead to significant savings without sacrificing performance or convenience. Over time, these upgrades can support lower household energy usage while keeping everyday tasks just as easy. 

17. Switch All Incandescent Bulbs to LED Lighting

Lighting is a daily source of electricity use, and incandescent bulbs waste most of their energy as heat. LED bulbs use up to 90% less energy while providing the same brightness and lasting much longer.  

Continuing to use incandescent bulbs increases electricity use unnecessarily and adds extra heat indoors. Replacing bulbs with LEDs, either as they burn out or all at once, is an easy upgrade that lowers energy use right away. 

18. Reduce Standby Power from Electronics

Many electronics continue to draw power even when they are turned off. A pattern often called standby or "vampire" power. If ignored, this hidden energy use can quietly increase electricity bills over time. Unplugging devices when they are not in use or using smart power strips helps cut off this wasted power without affecting convenience. 

19. Use Energy-Efficient Cooking Techniques

Cooking methods affect both energy use and indoor heat. Using smaller appliances like microwaves, toaster ovens, slow cookers, or air fryers uses less energy than heating a full-size oven, especially for small meals.  

These options also add less heat to the home, which can reduce cooling needs during warmer months. Choosing efficient cooking methods is an easy habit that supports overall energy efficiency. 

20. Utilize Natural Light  

Sunlight can help warm your home during cooler months and reduce the need for artificial lighting throughout the year. Blocking daylight when it's helpful can increase energy use unnecessarily. Open blinds during the day when outdoor temperatures are comfortable and close them when sunlight adds unwanted heat. 

21. Use Blinds, Curtains, or Window Film to Control Heat Gain

Direct sunlight can raise indoor temperatures and increase cooling demand during warmer months. Managing sun exposure helps reduce air conditioning use and keeps rooms more comfortable. Close blinds or curtains during peak sun hours, and consider window film for windows that receive intense, direct sunlight. 

22. Optimize Your Ceiling Fans 

Ceiling fans help circulate air, making rooms feel more comfortable without changing the thermostat. In summer, fans can help you feel cooler while reducing air conditioning use. In winter, reversing the fan's direction at a low speed can push warm air down from the ceiling. Fans should be turned off when rooms are empty, since they cool people, not spaces. 

23. Make Your Roof More Reflective 

A reflective or "cool" roof helps reduce heat absorption during hot weather, lowering indoor temperatures and cooling demand. This upgrade matters most in sunny areas or homes with limited attic insulation. While not a first-step efficiency fix for most Midwest homes, it can help reduce summer cooling needs when replacing or upgrading a roof.  

This typically requires professional installation and is best considered during roof replacement. 

24. Install Door Sweeps on Exterior Doors

Gaps under exterior doors allow cold air to enter and warm air to escape, especially during Midwest winters. When these gaps are left unsealed, drafts increase heating demand and make rooms feel less comfortable.  

Installing door sweeps creates a tight seal at the bottom of the door, helping keep indoor air inside and outdoor air out. This simple upgrade requires a door sweep and basic hand tools. 

25. Clean Refrigerator Coils and Dryer Vents Annually

Refrigerator coils that are covered in dust force the appliance to work harder to release heat, which increases electricity use and shortens its lifespan. Clogged dryer vents waste energy and create fire risk. Cleaning refrigerator coils and dryer vents at least once a year helps appliances run efficiently and safely, typically using a vacuum or vent-cleaning brush. 

26. Get an Energy Audit to Identify Hidden Efficiency Gaps

A home energy audit identifies energy losses you cannot easily see. Without an audit, homeowners may guess which upgrades matter most. Audits typically evaluate insulation, air leaks, duct performance, and HVAC efficiency using diagnostic tools.  

Results provide guidance, not guaranteed savings, and are most useful after basic DIY improvements are complete. 

DIY vs Professional Work: What Homeowners Should and Shouldn't Do 

Not every energy-efficiency upgrade requires a professional, but some jobs are better left to trained experts. Knowing which projects you can safely handle yourself and when it's smarter to call a licensed professional helps you improve efficiency without risking safety, comfort, or long-term damage to your home. 

Do DIY if… 

• You are sealing visible air leaks, such as gaps around doors, windows, or accessible attic and basement openings, using caulk, weatherstripping, or foam sealant. 

• You are changing HVAC air filters, clearing dust from vents, or keeping airflow paths open to help heating and cooling systems run efficiently. 

• You are upgrading lighting or habits, including switching to LED bulbs, washing clothes in cold water, or adjusting clothing layers before changing thermostat settings. 

• You are installing simple water-saving fixtures, like low-flow showerheads or faucet aerators, that do not involve altering plumbing systems. 

Call a licensed professional if… 

• The work involves gas systems, including furnaces, boilers, water heaters, or gas lines, since improper handling can create serious safety risks. 

• The project requires access to an electrical panel, wiring changes, or electrical upgrades that could cause fire hazards if done incorrectly. 

• You are modifying or repairing HVAC systems, beyond routine maintenance, such as equipment repairs, replacements, or complex duct changes. 

• The work affects structural components or hard-to-access ductwork, where mistakes can impact airflow, building integrity, and overall system performance. 

Following these guidelines helps you focus on safe, effective DIY improvements while relying on professionals for work that impacts safety and long-term energy efficiency. 

Are Manufactured Homes Energy Efficient? 

Manufactured homes can be energy efficient, but it often depends on when they were built and how well they've been maintained.  

Many older manufactured homes were built with less insulation and looser construction, which can lead to more heat loss in Midwest winters and more heat gain in summer. 

Common efficiency challenges include under-insulated floors and ceilings, exposed ductwork underneath the home, and air leaks around doors and windows.  

The good news is that improving efficiency usually starts with simple, practical steps, like sealing air leaks, adding insulation where accessible, insulating and sealing ductwork, and keeping heating systems well maintained. 

These focused upgrades help reduce energy loss, improve comfort, and lower energy use without requiring major changes to the home. 

Are New Homes More Energy Efficient? 

New homes are usually more energy efficient than older ones because they're built to meet modern energy codes. That typically means better insulation, tighter construction, and more efficient windows and heating systems, all of which help reduce drafts, keep temperatures more consistent, and lower energy use from the start. 

That said, newer doesn't always mean perfectly efficient. Energy can still be wasted through small air leaks, insulation gaps, thermostat settings, and everyday habits that increase heating or cooling demand. Appliances, lighting choices, and ventilation also play a role. 

Once you know where energy is still slipping out, it's easier to make small tweaks that keep energy use in check. 

As you make your home more energy efficient, it helps to think beyond individual upgrades and consider how everything works together. Sealing air leaks, improving insulation, and building better day-to-day energy habits all help reduce how much energy your home needs to stay comfortable. 

With more than 35 years of experience serving Midwest homeowners, we understand how small, practical improvements add up over time. When those efforts are paired with predictable energy planning, it becomes easier to manage costs and avoid surprises while staying focused on comfort and peace of mind. 

Santanna's Unlimited Energy Plan supports that approach by offering predictable monthly supply charges*, helping you plan confidently as you continue making energy-efficient improvements at home. Take a moment to explore how predictable energy planning can complement the changes you're making and support long-term comfort at home. 

* Restrictions apply. Enrollment based upon program eligibility. Customers using more than 125% of normal monthly usage as determined by Santanna may be required to switch plans.