While many home improvements have a lengthy process, there are plenty of upgrades you can accomplish as weekend projects. One way to spend a weekend improving your home is to add upgrades and changes that will help lower your utility costs. Here are some ideas for weekend projects to make your home more efficient and cost-effective:

Install a smart thermostat

Adding a programmable smart thermostat is an excellent weekend project that can save you money and make your home more energy efficient. With a smart thermostat, you can set specific schedules for heating and cooling. Many of them have features to adjust the temperature automatically based on activity. Smart thermostats can help you save energy and are simple and quick to install.

Upgrade your appliances & fixtures

Home appliances can be a major source of energy waste, and luckily, replacing them can be accomplished in a single weekend project. Modern refrigerators, dishwashers, and ovens have energy-saving features to help you keep your costs down and your home more efficient. Even smaller appliances like coffee makers or microwaves can be swapped out for energy-saving alternatives. For fixtures, consider replacing your sink faucets with low-flow options to save water.

Touch up your weather stripping

Even modern homes can lose significant amounts of energy through leaky windows. If you want to keep your heating and cooling bills down, touching up the weather seals on your windows can help you ensure your HVAC system is performing at maximum efficiency. You can purchase caulk and other simple-to-use products at your local home improvement store or online to solve and prevent leaks.

These are just a few ways to help your home be more energy-efficient. If you’re interested in a more cost-effective and eco-friendly home, consider these home improvement ideas for your next weekend project.