If you own a house-sized structure where your business is located–or are responsible for utility costs in a rented building that size–a few quick and easy do-it-yourself (DIY) insulation projects may save you hundreds of dollars each year, according to the U.S. Department of Energy’s consumer website, Energy.gov. Here are four DIY projects they suggest, each taking less than three hours to complete and costing $30 or less.

1 | Lower your water heating temperature

Project Level | Easy
Energy Savings | 4%-22% Annually
Time to Complete | 2 hours
Cost of Materials | $0

Savings resulting from turning down your water heater temperature are based on two components: reduced standby losses (heat lost from water heater into surrounding basement area); and consumption (from water demand or use in your office). Set too high, or at 140ºF, your water heater can waste anywhere from $36 to $61 annually in standby heat losses and more than $400 in demand losses. (NOTE: If you own a restaurant or other food-related business, follow your industry guidelines or local regulatory rules on water temperature.)

2 | Insulate your hot water pipes

Project Level | Medium
Energy Savings | 3%-4% Annually
Time to Complete | 3 hours for a small office, shop or restaurant
Cost of Materials | $3-$30

Insulating your hot water pipes reduces heat loss and can raise water temperature 2°F–4°F hotter than uninsulated pipes can deliver, allowing you to lower your water temperature setting. You also won’t have to wait as long for hot water when you turn on a faucet or showerhead, which helps conserve water.

3 | Insulate your water heater tank

Project Level | Medium
Energy Savings | 7%-16% Annually
Time to Complete | 1.5 hours
Cost of Materials | $30

Just like insulating your walls or roof, insulating your hot water tank is an easy and inexpensive way to improve energy efficiency and save you money each month.

4 | Seal air leaks with caulk

Project Level | Easy
Energy Savings | 10%-20%
Time to Complete | 1-2 hours
Cost of Materials | $3-$30

Air leaks can waste a lot of your energy dollars. Whether leaks are letting hot air inside during the warmer months or letting in drafts during the cooler season, one of the quickest energy- and money-saving tasks you can do is caulk, seal and weather strip all cracks and large openings to the outside. Here’s how to do it.

VIA | Reddit  HT | Lifehacker.com

Photos: Caulk, Meter (istock) | Others (Energy.gov)