Homeowners can save up to $83 a year with this simple “weather strip” trick—and it works year-round
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As temperatures rise, so do household energy bills—and most Americans are feeling the heat.
But according to experts, one overlooked fix could keep your home cooler and your wallet fuller.
It’s low-cost, effective, and you don’t need to be handy to pull it off.
And surprisingly, it works just as well in the winter as it does in the summer.
It’s called weather stripping, and it’s one of the fastest ways to stop energy loss through doors and windows.
According to the US Department of Energy, Up to a third of a typical home’s heat loss occurs through windows and doors.
The same principle applies to cold air escaping in the warmer months. By sealing up gaps with simple strips, homeowners can prevent energy waste and keep indoor temperatures consistent.
Weather stripping can save between 5% and 10% on heating and cooling annually, according to the Department of Energy.
That translates to about $83 in yearly savings—and that’s just for window areas alone. If you go further and seal all cracks and gaps in your home, you could save up to 20%, or about $166.
It’s also something you can do yourself, or have a professional handle during an energy audit.
This small change is part of a bigger picture—one that includes other low-effort, high-impact moves.
For instance, closing your curtains during the hottest parts of the day can reduce your need for air conditioning.
Also read: Stop overpaying! AC experts reveal the costly mistake adding hundreds to your energy bill
Keeping sunlight out helps stabilize indoor temps, especially in rooms that get a lot of exposure. It’s a simple move that can help you run your A/C less, or even skip it entirely when you’re away.
Another upgrade to consider is a smart thermostat, which adjusts temperatures automatically depending on your habits.
According to Energy Star, this move can save you about $180 a year in energy costs. These devices allow you to cool or heat only when necessary, cutting back on wasted energy.
Plus, many models now come with mobile apps that make temperature control easier when you’re not home.
Also read: Cut $128.52 off your energy bill! Try this simple trick
It’s also smart to regularly check your HVAC system to make sure it’s running efficiently.
Filters should be changed annually, or more often if you live in a dusty area or have pets.
Some filters can be rinsed and reused, while others must be replaced entirely.
A clogged filter makes your A/C work harder, which drives up your energy usage—and your bill.
Read next: Stop overpaying! 3 simple tricks could cut $605 from your summer energy bill
Have you tried weather stripping or any other energy-saving hacks at home? Did you notice a difference in your monthly utility costs? Share your tips and experiences in the comments—even a small change can go a long way. Someone else might just benefit from what worked for you.
But according to experts, one overlooked fix could keep your home cooler and your wallet fuller.
It’s low-cost, effective, and you don’t need to be handy to pull it off.
And surprisingly, it works just as well in the winter as it does in the summer.
It’s called weather stripping, and it’s one of the fastest ways to stop energy loss through doors and windows.
According to the US Department of Energy, Up to a third of a typical home’s heat loss occurs through windows and doors.
Homeowners can save up to $83 a year with this simple “Weather Strip” Trick. Image source: HouseImprovements / YouTube
The same principle applies to cold air escaping in the warmer months. By sealing up gaps with simple strips, homeowners can prevent energy waste and keep indoor temperatures consistent.
Weather stripping can save between 5% and 10% on heating and cooling annually, according to the Department of Energy.
That translates to about $83 in yearly savings—and that’s just for window areas alone. If you go further and seal all cracks and gaps in your home, you could save up to 20%, or about $166.
It’s also something you can do yourself, or have a professional handle during an energy audit.
This small change is part of a bigger picture—one that includes other low-effort, high-impact moves.
For instance, closing your curtains during the hottest parts of the day can reduce your need for air conditioning.
Also read: Stop overpaying! AC experts reveal the costly mistake adding hundreds to your energy bill
Keeping sunlight out helps stabilize indoor temps, especially in rooms that get a lot of exposure. It’s a simple move that can help you run your A/C less, or even skip it entirely when you’re away.
Another upgrade to consider is a smart thermostat, which adjusts temperatures automatically depending on your habits.
According to Energy Star, this move can save you about $180 a year in energy costs. These devices allow you to cool or heat only when necessary, cutting back on wasted energy.
Plus, many models now come with mobile apps that make temperature control easier when you’re not home.
Also read: Cut $128.52 off your energy bill! Try this simple trick
It’s also smart to regularly check your HVAC system to make sure it’s running efficiently.
Filters should be changed annually, or more often if you live in a dusty area or have pets.
Some filters can be rinsed and reused, while others must be replaced entirely.
A clogged filter makes your A/C work harder, which drives up your energy usage—and your bill.
Read next: Stop overpaying! 3 simple tricks could cut $605 from your summer energy bill
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