Mike Holmes, star of HGTV’s Holmes on Homes to Holmes Family Rescue, warns that when it comes to home renovations, some outdated appliances can end up costing you more in the long run, making them some of the worst long-term investments homeowners can make.

While he supports smart technology that saves energy and cuts bills, he says old-school air conditioners remain one of the worst money pits—unless you upgrade to the latest, energy-efficient models.

Mike Holmes Reveals How Smart Thermostats Help Reduce Your Bills

Noting how energy use in America doubles every 20 years, he noted that half of that is due to heating and cooling. Thanks to his abundance of tips on his website, Holmes is here to help with your air conditioning problems. To begin, he recommends a smart thermostat. Nearly every new build is installing them nowadays, but if you already have a “regular” thermostat, now is the time to swap it out and upgrade. Not only can it help regulate your home, but most smart thermostats will also allow you to access them remotely and adjust the temperature using your smartphone. Additionally, you can set the thermostat to adjust the temperatures with time settings and even learn to adjust using trends you set. With one of his tips being reducing your air conditioning usage, having the ability to control your unit is crucial.

If central air is not an option, another useful and obvious way to reduce your energy bill is to install a ceiling fan. Holmes emphasizes that ceiling fans don’t make the air cooler because they draw warm air from the room, sending it upwards. But even if you have central A/C, utilizing a ceiling fan may allow you to attempt to cool the room first before turning on the A/C. Holmes suggests that homeowners avoid cutting corners with a cheap ceiling fan, as they can be noisy. We shouldn’t be shocked, but yes, there are smart ceiling fans out there ready for you to cool off during the summer. Additionally, Holmes has other options to cool off your space. The easiest and cost-effective option is to utilize shade in any way, shape, or form. That may include keeping the blinds closed. Hanging curtains can also assist in making your space beautiful!

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Energy-Efficient Appliances Are Mike Holmes’ Go-To

Most modern appliances are energy efficient, which are designed to reduce energy consumption and reduce their impact on the environment. Plus, they will ultimately save you money by reducing your utility bills. As HGTV Property Brothers stars Jonathan and Drew Scott suggested, upgrading your home to include electric stoves is a short-term investment for long-term benefits. Additionally, Holmes recommends whole-home surge protection.

If you’re looking to truly help the environment during the home build or upgrade process, Holmes says, consider solar panels. Though they may not be a part of everyone’s budget, solar panels will pay off in the long run. They have the power to harness more energy than you need to power your home. Part of why the upfront cost may be high, Holmes suggests replacing the roof before you add panels.

Despite HGTV’s recent cancellations, Holmes is still represented on the network with Holmes Family Rescue. Joined by his daughter, Sherry Holmes, and his son, Michael Holmes Jr., it’s become a family affair. Together, they help homeowners who have experienced some botched contractor work. The family’s mission is to “make it right” at any cost. Though the show is about to wrap up its latest season, some fans wonder if it will return for Season 3 or if it is also on the chopping block. Having worked on television for over two decades, there’s no guarantee of safety for any HGTV personalities.

Holmes Family Rescue airs Wednesdays at 9:00pm on HGTV. All episodes are available to stream on HBO Max.

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