The Frugal Projects Collection

This is a collection of all the "Frugal" projects and pages on Build-It-Solar -- meaning projects that don't cost much and save a lot.

The payback period on these projects are inside of a year, and many have payback periods of only a few days (or no days)!

I look for new ideas that are relatively simple to do and have a proven payback.  Many of these ideas are a bit out of the ordinary and will not be found in the usual "ten energy saving tips" type lists. 

Some of the ideas push the envelope a little, so use some common sense and judgment if you decide to use them.

Lots of good, solid, fun, projects -- including some great and inexpensive solar projects.

 

 

Zero Cost Ideas to Save Energy...

These are free (or nearly free) ideas that can save a lot.  If you think these will have a tiny impact because of the tiny cost -- think again.  For example, duct sealing and/or free window treatments could cut your heat bill by 20%.

Frugal Living Energy Ideas...

A collection of small and not so small projects that have very good payback periods -- almost all less than 1 year.  Projects range from window treatments, to large (but cheap) solar heaters, to sunspaces, pool heating, and passive cooling.

"Top 8 Projects" from the Half Plan...

These 8 projects cost us a total of $380, and save over $900 per year.
Your "Top 8" will be different, but we tell you how to find them.

Ten Projects with One Year Paybacks...

Some simple to fairly involved projects that have payback periods inside of 1 year, and save significant dollars.

The "Half" program ...

This is our own plan to cut total energy expenditure and carbon emissions in half. 
 

Some other ideas...

Almost everything on the Conservation Page is cheap to do and offers a good to very good payback.  Includes many unique ideas you won't find elsewhere.

Sun spaces, pool heating, water conservation, simple solar space heating, simple solar water heating, and passive cooling can all be very cost effective.

Any other ideas? -- let me know...

 

 

 

Gary October 10, 2008