Start with an energy audit
The first step to taking a whole-house energy efficiency approach is to find out which parts of your house or apartment use the most energy. A home energy audit will identify those areas, and through your own efforts, your local utility, or the assistance of a qualified professional, you can take cost-effective measures to reduce your energy costs and hence, your CO2 footprint.
"Retrofitting a home for energy efficiency will save you money, lots of money. However, it will require some effort on your part. You should start with an energy audit. First, do a simple visual inspection to locate the most obvious leaks – gaps between doors and frames, or large openings in the building envelope that let cold air in when the wind’s blowing and hot air out when the furnace is running. These can be sealed immediately and will often yield enormous benefits. Then, on a windy day, perform a search and destroy mission for smaller, less obvious leaks. Use incense, a smoke stick or simply your hand to detect drafts . . . . If this is more work than you’d like to undertake, or if you are feeling uncertain, you can always hire a qualified professional energy auditor to perform the inspection for you. You’ll find them in the business pages under 'Energy Conservation and Management Services' or 'Home Inspection.'"
References:- U.S. Department of Energy, Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy: Energy Saver$: Tips on Saving Energy & Money at Home, p. 2 (June, 2005).
- The Mother Earth News Guide to Homes, Simple Energy Saving Strategies, p. 27, Summer, 2007.