Understand the technology.
Then check the numbers.
Twelve practical guides with worked examples, buying checklists and clear explanations of what changes the payback.
Start with your home’s energy useSolar panels: costs, savings and payback
Calculate rooftop solar value from self-consumption, export credits and installed cost. Compare cash, loans and battery-ready designs.
Read the guide →Heat pumps versus furnaces: compare the real running cost
Understand heat pump COP, fuel costs, cold-weather performance and installation quotes before replacing a furnace or central AC.
Read the guide →Ductless mini-splits: sizing, zones and installation costs
Compare single-zone and multi-zone mini-splits, identify installation costs and evaluate heating savings for rooms without ducts.
Read the guide →Smart thermostats: savings, compatibility and useful features
Estimate smart thermostat savings from HVAC spending, check wiring and heat-pump compatibility, and compare sensors and scheduling features.
Read the guide →Insulation and air sealing: what to fix first
Compare insulation and air sealing, estimate savings, and build a project scope that addresses moisture, ventilation and installation quality.
Read the guide →Heat pump water heaters: savings, sizing and installation
Evaluate hybrid water heater running costs, first-hour rating, installation space, condensate and the premium over a replacement tank.
Read the guide →LED lighting: lumens, compatibility and payback
Calculate LED savings from real wattage and hours, compare lumens and color temperature, and avoid dimmer and enclosed-fixture problems.
Read the guide →Home batteries and portable power stations: size the loads
Size backup battery energy and inverter power, estimate runtime and compare portable stations with installed home battery systems.
Read the guide →Home EV charging: costs, speed and installation choices
Calculate home EV charging costs with wall energy, compare Level 1 and Level 2 charging, and plan an electrician’s installation quote.
Read the guide →Home energy monitors: find waste before buying upgrades
Compare plug-in meters, circuit monitors and utility interval data. Turn measured watts and kilowatt-hours into a practical savings plan.
Read the guide →Heat pump dryers: energy savings and laundry tradeoffs
Compare a heat pump dryer with a conventional electric dryer using annual loads, energy per load, installation and operating requirements.
Read the guide →A home energy audit: turn high bills into a ranked action plan
Build a useful energy assessment from bills, comfort issues and measured loads, then compare upgrades without double-counting savings.
Read the guide →