Watt’s Up? How to Build an Energy-Efficient Home in Colorado
With energy prices on the rise, there has never been a better time to make your home more efficient. Turning your house into a net zero nest, a home that produces as much energy as it consumes, is easier than you might think.
You do not need to remodel your entire home at once. Whether you live in Denver, Fort Collins, or a mountain town off the grid, these seven practical steps will help you lower your utility bills, reduce your carbon footprint, and create a more comfortable and sustainable living space.
1. Get a Home Energy Audit
The first step toward energy efficiency is understanding where your home is losing energy. A home energy audit identifies problem areas such as drafts, poor insulation, or outdated appliances, and provides a clear action plan for improvement.
The Colorado Energy Office connects homeowners with affordable assessments, and many utility providers offer rebates or free audits. It is a simple starting point with long term benefits.
2. Seal Air Leaks & Upgrade Insulation
Small gaps around windows, doors, and baseboards can quietly drain your wallet. Seal leaks with caulk or weatherstripping, and consider upgrading attic or crawlspace insulation to keep heat inside during winter and outside during summer.
According to the CSU Energy Checklist, proper insulation and air sealing can slash heating and cooling costs by up to 20%.
3. Install a Programmable or Smart Thermostat
Colorado’s climate can shift from snow to sunshine in a single day, but your thermostat does not have to. Smart thermostats automatically adjust temperatures when you are away or asleep, while basic programmable models can still reduce your annual energy bill by about 10 percent. It is one of the fastest and most affordable upgrades you can make.
4. Choose Energy-Efficient Appliances & Lighting
When replacing appliances, look for the ENERGY STAR label. These models use less energy without sacrificing performance. Do not overlook lighting. LED bulbs use up to 75 percent less electricity than incandescent bulbs and last for years.
Each efficient upgrade brings you one step closer to a true net zero home.
5. Take Advantage of Colorado’s Energy Assistance Programs
Energy efficient improvements do not have to strain your budget. Programs like Energy Outreach Colorado’s CARE Program provide qualifying residents with free home energy improvements, including insulation, furnace replacements, and more.
Check your eligibility or share these programs with someone who could benefit. These initiatives not only lower energy bills but also improve comfort and safety at home.
6. Shift Usage to Off-Peak Hours
Many Colorado utility companies now use time of use billing, which means electricity costs more during peak hours. Run energy heavy appliances like washers, dryers, or dishwashers after 8 p.m. or on weekends to save money.
Even small scheduling changes can make a noticeable difference in your monthly energy costs.
7. Invest in Solar Energy
Once your home is energy efficient, the next step toward net zero living is generating your own power.
With more than 300 days of sunshine each year, Colorado is the perfect place for residential solar energy.
Installing a solar panel system can drastically reduce or eliminate your electric bills, protect you from rising utility costs, and increase your home’s value.
At Cascade Solar & Electric, we design and install high performance solar systems tailored to your home and energy goals. Whether you are just exploring solar or ready to start your project, we make the process seamless and stress free.
Ready to Power Your Net-Zero Nest?
Energy efficiency begins with small, intentional choices such as sealing air leaks, upgrading insulation, or installing a smart thermostat. Each improvement adds up to a home that is more comfortable, cost effective, and sustainable.
When you are ready to take the final step toward energy independence, Cascade Solar & Electric is your trusted local partner for solar installations in Denver, Boulder, and across Colorado.