Energy Saving

These projects and energy saving tips will cut your energy consumption.

Add Filter

Tout icon

8 Small Cabin Ideas for Off-Grid Living

Enjoy modern luxuries while living a more secluded lifestyle with these off-grid small cabin ideas.

Could Peecycling Help Struggling Farmers?

Some say peecycling—saving and donating your urine—could be a solution to the worldwide fertilizer shortage and the global food crisis.


Tout icon

5 Energy Efficiency Innovations From the 2023 International Builders’ Show

Energy efficiency and sustainability were major themes at IBS 2023. Here are some new construction products that do the job...


Tout icon

How Much Electricity Does a Space Heater Use?

If you're in the market for a portable electric space heater, remember to consider the operating costs. Here's what you...


Tout icon

What Is a Rain Chain?

Once you discover the beauty of water flowing down a rain chain, you'll look at your own house to figure...


Tout icon

When Should You Take Down Your Christmas Lights?

Christmas lights bring joy in December, but irritation by March. How long is too long? What's your cutoff date, and...


We Tested the 4 Best Smart Thermostats to Control Your Temperature and Electric Bill

Our team tested a gaggle of smart thermostats--and we found our four favorites on the market.


Tout icon

LED Christmas Lights Are Best. Here’s Why.

When it comes to holiday lights, there can be only one choice.


Tout icon

8 Ways Conserving Hot Water Can Reduce High Utility Bills

From simple changes in habits to water heater upgrades, here's how to save money this winter on your energy and...


Tout icon

Here’s Why You Shouldn’t Close Off Vents to Save Money in the Winter

Want a lower heating bill this winter? You might be tempted to try closing heating vents in unused rooms, but...


How To Buy a Heat Pump in 2023

New energy incentives make this a great time to install or upgrade a heat pump.


What To Know About Cleaning Solar Panels

Solar panels need to be clean to deliver optimal performance, and rain won't do the job. Find out how to...

Tout icon

How To Install a Solar Power System in a Van Camper

What to expect when outfitting your vehicle with off-grid capabilities, including solar roof panels, a charge controller and a battery...


Tout icon

Does Bulb Wattage Determine Brightness?

It's a common misconception that a bulb's wattage is the only factor in its brightness. So if you've been buying...


Save Money With These Cost-Effective Energy Efficiency Tips

Easy home improvements to cut your energy bills, and new financial incentives that could help put them within reach.


Tout icon

How to Get Tax Credits and Rebates to Make Your Home More Energy Efficient

How to finesse your home's energy efficiency by using the new rebates and tax incentives for HVAC, solar and more.


6 Best Solar Batteries

Solar panels convert sunlight to electricity, and batteries store it. Solar battery technology is still evolving, but here's what's available...


Our Editors Tested the 10 Best Firewood Racks to Store and Stack Wood

Keep your wood off the ground, neatly stacked and ready for your next gathering around the fire pit or fireplace...


Tout icon

Which Household Appliances Are Running Up Your Electric Bill?

Hitting the power button doesn't always mean an appliance is completely off. Appliances drain electricity in standby mode and the...


Tout icon

What To Know About Solar Batteries

Solar battery technology has advanced in leaps and bounds in recent years. Here's what makes a battery a solar battery.


Tout icon

How To Install an Off-Grid Solar Power System

Run power where you need it.

 

Tout icon

What Are Peak Hours for Electricity?

Electricity peak hours, the times of day when electric consumption is highest, may affect your monthly power bill. Here's how...


How to Choose the Right Skylight Shades for Your Home

Skylight shades cover your skylights in stylish and functional ways. Here's everything you need to know.


Are Electric Heated Blankets Safe?

Electric blankets have a reputation for being unsafe. But is it earned?


3 Best Smart Toilets for the Tech-Loving Homeowner

A smart toilet could change the way you see your bathroom. Here are a few of the best options on...


How to Stack and Store Firewood

Want to keep your firewood organized and dry? Here's how.


Tout icon

Home Window Tinting: What To Know Before You Buy

If you live in a climate where the air conditioner runs almost all the time, energy-saving home window tinting can...