Home energy guides
Field-tested guidance on where to start, what to upgrade, and how to make the numbers work for your home. No jargon, no hype.
All guides
27 articles
Dehumidifier Cost Per Day: The Math and Cheaper Fixes
Calculate what a basement dehumidifier costs to run at your electric rate, then cut runtime with moisture fixes that often cost less.
Duct sealing: when it pays back, and how to avoid bad quotes
Learn what duct sealing fixes, what it costs, and the questions that separate real work from spray-and-pray.
Insulation before a heat pump: how to decide with your own numbers
Compare attic insulation, air sealing, and a heat pump using your rates and comfort goals so you spend on what moves the needle.
Do You Need a Panel Upgrade? Heat Pump & EV Checklist
A plain-English checklist for service size, panel space, and new loads so you know when a panel upgrade is required and when it is not.
Space heater cost per hour: the math that explains your winter bill
Calculate what a 1500W space heater costs per day at your electric rate, then see cheaper comfort fixes that reduce the need for it.
Window Replacement vs Fixes: Avoid a Costly Mistake
Before you replace windows for energy savings, use this framework to spot drafts, condensation causes, and cheaper fixes that often work.
Cold rooms, hot rooms: fix uneven temps before big upgrades
Weekend-level fixes to even out hot and cold rooms before spending on new HVAC or windows.
How We Calculate Costs and Savings: Our Methodology
Where our upgrade estimates come from, the data we use, and the limits you should know before trusting payback numbers.
Home energy terms in plain English (from SEER2 to U-factor)
Plain-English guide to SEER2, HSPF2, AFUE, U-factor, SHGC, ACH50, kWh and other labels so you can compare quotes and plan upgrades.
Why your energy bill is so high: 7 things to check first
A 10–20 minute checklist to find whether billing quirks, weather, HVAC, hot water, or new gadgets are driving your high bill.
Heat pump water heater ROI without the hype
Will a heat pump water heater pay back in your home? Run the numbers with realistic install costs, COP, and incentives.
How to read your utility bill without guessing
Translate your utility bill into kWh, therms, and actual costs per end-use so you can target the right upgrade.
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