When looking to see what you can do in the garage for savings... it is about conserving energy:
Water heaters:
If you choose to keep a traditional electric water heater ( not a natural gas or oil fired water heater) wrap it in an insulation jacket with an insulation value of at least R-8, so that heat doesn’t leak out. An insulation jacket costs $15-25 and will save 4-10% in water heating costs.
Radon removal:
Radon is a radioactive gas that has been linked to some types of cancer. You can not see it or smell it. It comes from the decay of uranium in soil and can get into your house through cracks and holes. Hardware stores carry kits that can help you determine if you have an issue. Radon kits cost between $10-50- correcting a radon problem can cost up to in the $4000.
Duct Sealing:
Leaking ducts do not just waste energy, they can also cause comfort issues. If you find particular rooms difficult to heat or cool, or ones that seem to get stuffy, with little airflow, it could be a duct problem. About $3 for a roll of metal tape can be used in visible duct areas. Sealing and insulating you ducts may improve efficiency by up to 20%.
