Written by Energy Trust of Oregon. Learn more about how they are helping homeowners save with efficient home repairs at the Energy Trust of Oregon website.
High interest rates and rising home prices have many Oregonians choosing to upgrade their current homes instead of trying to enter a tough real estate market.
With home improvement projects happening year-round, there’s help for homeowners who prefer to tackle projects themselves. Energy Trust of Oregon, a nonprofit that helps people, businesses and communities use less energy and save money, offers several ways to cut costs:
Direct-purchase discounts: Savings are applied immediately when purchasing qualifying equipment at participating Oregon retailers. Energy Trust’s website lists participating retailers and eligible products such as washers, dryers and smart thermostats.
Rebates: Homeowners can apply online after completing an approved upgrade and receive a rebate check in the mail.
Easy wins: DIY projects to start now
For homeowners and renters looking for simple, immediate savings, Energy Trust recommends starting with routine DIY projects and taking a free 20-minute online home assessment to determine which upgrades to prioritize. These steps can help reduce energy bills over time and may qualify for incentives:
- Seal air leaks: Apply weather stripping to drafty doors and windows, and use caulking around cracks near ducts, pipes and exhaust fans to reduce airflow and protect indoor air quality.
- Upgrade lighting: Switch frequently used areas, such as kitchens and bathrooms, to LED lighting for a quick, self-installed change that delivers immediate energy savings.
- Maintain systems: Regularly clean or replace air filters in heating and cooling systems and clear debris from outdoor units.
- Check your water heater: Inspect and drain water heating tanks annually to prevent silt and sediment buildup.
Bigger projects offer bigger returns
Experienced DIYers can take on larger upgrades that deliver long-term savings, including:
- Heat pump water heaters: Also known as hybrid water heaters, these use two to three times less energy than standard electric models. Through Energy Trust, homeowners can receive up to a $700 instant discount on select units.
- Insulation: One of the most cost-effective ways to improve comfort, insulation is key to reducing heating and cooling costs. Energy Trust offers incentives of up to $2.25 per square foot.
For major installations such as heat pumps, central air conditioning or new windows, Energy Trust recommends working with a licensed contractor. Contractors ensure the work is completed correctly while helping homeowners take advantage of available incentives.
Homeowners can visit Energy Trust of Oregon’s website for complete guidelines and eligibility requirements before beginning any project.
About Energy Trust of Oregon
Energy Trust of Oregon is an independent nonprofit created to help people, organizations and communities save energy and connect to renewable power such as solar. Funded by customers of Portland General Electric, Pacific Power, NW Natural, Cascade Natural Gas and Avista, the organization works to lower energy costs and help communities and utilities meet clean-energy goals. Learn more at energytrust.org/residential/incentives.
