If you're tired of getting higher than expected power bills in the mail each month, consider making a few home updates that will improve energy efficiency and help you keep more of your hard-earned money in the bank. Here are a few effective options to consider:

Replace Your Water Heater

Not only can you cut your water heating costs by about 50 percent depending on where you live, but installing a solar water heater will also reduce your household's carbon footprint because it releases less CO2 emissions than a conventional water heater. The upfront cost of a solar water heater is typically more expensive than conventional heaters, but the money you save on energy throughout the years is sure to make up the difference. Your new solar water heater will also reduce wear and tear on your overall plumbing system because the pumps don't have to work overtime to keep the water in your tank and pipes hot all the time. Check out http://www.rbincorporated.com/ to learn more about replacing your existing water heater with a more efficient one.

Spiff up the Windows

Spiffing up the windows is another easy home update you can make that will improve your household's overall energy efficiency. Simply apply insulation film on each window throughout your home, even in the basement and attic. Window insulation film reduces heat gain and loss year-round, so it's easier for your HVAC system to keep temperatures comfortable indoors. It will also protect your flooring and furniture from damage due to harmful ultraviolet rays, which should save you some money on repairs and replacements as time goes on. You can find insulation film in a variety of tinted colors and designs, which offers an excellent opportunity to create a uniquely custom look that can't be found anywhere else in your neighborhood.

Install New Light Bulbs

Replacing your old light bulbs with those that have an Energy Star rating is one of the quickest and easiest way to lower your monthly power bills. Using newer light bulbs designed to give off less heat while in use will also help keep indoor temperatures under control year-round. There are a few interesting options to consider using such as:

• Halogen Incandescent – they come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colors which make them perfect options for mood lighting.
• Compact  Fluorescent – they have a unique curly design and work well with fixtures that don't cover the bulb.
• LED – they look more like traditional light bulbs than most other Energy Star rated options do.

If you can't replace all of the light bulbs in your home at once for some reason, start by replacing a few of the most used lights and then make one or two replacements a month after that until all of the bulbs are switched out.