There is much to consider when making a move to a new home - don't forget saving money on utility bills. If you want to save money on your utility bills - consider tips in the EnergySavers guide from the U.S. Department of Energy. Buying Energy Efficient Appliances Can Help Moving a household often involves buying appliances, so make sure they are energy efficient. Energy efficient appliances can be easily identified by looking for the yellow ENERGY STAR® label. Appliances that have the ENERGY STAR® label meet U.S. Department of Energy guidelines for energy efficiency. The ENERGY STAR® label means that you can expect to use 20-40+% less energy over the course of a year. The same applies to big ticket items like water heaters, furnaces and air conditioning units. Basic Home Improvements to Reduce Energy Usage It will also be beneficial to ensure there is adequate insulation in the attic, crawlspace or basement. Don't let the cold/warm air escape from your home - upgrade to energy efficient double-pane glass windows. Some government agencies provide tax credits and rebates for improvements - go to www.energy.gov/savings for details. Making Improvements on a Budget If the post-move budget is tight, you should at least consider making some more affordable energy improvements. You can turn down the heat and air-conditioning throughout the day by installing a programmable thermostat. Your home can use many light bulbs - make sure that are of the energy efficient variety (i.e. CFL/LED bulbs). A few bucks spent on caulk or expansion foam can go a long way to reducing drafts from outside pipes, wires and vents.

Taking the proactive measures mentioned above will repay themselves year after year in lower utility bills.