As a homeowner, you know that the costs of keeping your home running can add up quickly. Luckily, there are several energy-saving improvements you can make to reduce your carbon footprint and lower your monthly bills. And the best part? Many of these fixes are simple and can be done today!

One of the easiest places to start is with your light bulbs. Traditional incandescent bulbs are extremely inefficient, as they produce more heat than light. LED bulbs, on the other hand, use up to 90% less energy and last a lot longer. They might be a tad more expensive upfront, but you’ll save money in the long run. Besides, LEDs come in a variety of colors and styles, so you can customize your lighting to suit your taste and your home’s décor.

Smart thermostats are another great way to save energy and money. These devices allow you to control your home’s temperature remotely and even set schedules, so you’re not heating or cooling an empty house. Many smart thermostats also provide energy usage reports, so you can see exactly how much you’re saving. Some utility companies even offer rebates or discounts when you install a smart thermostat, so be sure to check with your provider.

Upgrading your appliances to energy-efficient models is a surefire way to reduce your energy usage and lower those pesky utility bills. Look for the Energy Star label when shopping for new appliances, which indicates that the product meets strict energy efficiency standards set by the US Environmental Protection Agency. Energy Star-certified appliances typically use less energy and water than standard models, helping you save on utility costs and reducing your impact on the environment.