At Bear Homes, we pride ourselves on building energy-efficient homes that help homeowners save on energy costs. Whether you’re living in one of our Move-in-Ready homes or considering a custom energy-efficient build, we want to provide you with actionable tips for reducing your energy bills. Below are effective ways to cut costs while keeping your home comfortable year-round.

Take Advantage of Lower Energy Rates

Energy costs fluctuate throughout the day based on demand. Utility companies often offer off-peak pricing, where energy is cheaper during certain hours, typically late at night or early in the morning. Running appliances like dishwashers, and laundry machines, or even charging electric vehicles during these low-cost hours can make a noticeable difference in your monthly bill. Many utility companies in Southeast Wisconsin, including We Energies, have tiered pricing, so check your energy provider’s rates and adjust your schedule accordingly.

Maximize Efficiency with LED Bulbs

Switching to energy-efficient lighting is one of the simplest ways to lower your electricity usage. LED bulbs use up to 75% less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs, and they last up to 25 times longer. For those looking to create a cozy, energy-efficient atmosphere, consider using dimmable LED bulbs. These bulbs give you control over brightness levels while consuming minimal energy.

Purchase an Energy Efficient Move-in-Ready Home

Looking for a new home designed with energy savings in mind? Explore our Move-in-Ready Homes built with a focus on efficiency and sustainability.

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Energy-Efficient Features in Our Homes

Our energy-efficient homes incorporate a wide range of features designed to minimize energy usage while maximizing comfort. These include:

High-performance insulation: This keeps your home warmer in winter and cooler in summer, reducing the need for excessive heating and cooling.
Energy-saving appliances: Our homes come equipped with energy-efficient appliances that reduce water and electricity usage.
High-efficiency heating and cooling systems: These systems are designed to operate using less energy while maintaining ideal indoor temperatures year-round.

Each feature is carefully considered and incorporated into the design and construction process to create a home that is comfortable, aesthetically pleasing, and highly energy-efficient.

Take Advantage of Local Incentives and Rebates

Homeowners in Racine and Kenosha Counties have access to several energy efficiency rebates and incentives:

Focus on Energy: This Wisconsin-based program offers rebates for energy-efficient home improvements, including heating and cooling systems, insulation, and windows.
We Energies Appliance Recycling Program: Receive a cash incentive for recycling old, inefficient appliances like refrigerators and freezers.
Racine Energy Efficiency Programs: Check with your local programs that offer rebates for energy-saving upgrades, such as installing energy-efficient windows and HVAC systems. (Fun Fact: These installations are handled when you build or buy with Bear Homes! 😉)

These programs can help you recoup some of the costs associated with making your home more energy-efficient.

Energy Efficiency Throughout the Seasons

Saving on energy costs isn’t just about preparing your house for the Midwest winter. Here’s how you can optimize your home for energy efficiency year-round:

Spring/Summer: Maximize natural ventilation by opening windows during cooler parts of the day to reduce air conditioning use. Install energy-efficient windows to keep heat out and cool air in.
Fall: Take advantage of mild temperatures by turning off heating and cooling systems when not needed. Clean or replace HVAC filters for better efficiency.
Winter: Seal drafts, insulate pipes, and lower the thermostat when not home to save on heating costs.

By adjusting your energy use seasonally, you can achieve lower utility bills and a more sustainable home environment.

Additional Tips for Lowering Energy Bills

Use natural light: During the day, take advantage of natural light instead of relying on artificial lighting. It’s free and can drastically reduce your lighting costs.
Solar-powered motion sensor lights: Consider installing solar-powered lights for your home’s exterior. These lights use energy from the sun, making them a cost-effective and sustainable option for security lighting.
Unplug electronics: Even when not in use, plugged-in electronics still consume electricity. Unplug devices or use power strips to cut off electricity when not needed.

At Bear Homes, we specialize in building energy-efficient homes that help you save on your energy bills year-round. If you’re interested in an energy-efficient custom home, schedule a consultation with our team to get started on your journey to building the most energy-efficient home design for your family.

Lower Your Energy Bills with These Simple Steps