Going GREEN is saving GREEN
Many of these recommended changes are not just about being environmentally friendly anymore, but will have a real impact on energy costs in your home. By US Government estimates most households could save 20% to 50% on their residential energy bills by implementing these suggestions. Most don't require expensive changes and some are only lifestyle adjustments.
- Install the highest-rated Energy Star Appliances within your budget.
- Turn off the lights when not in the room
- Install programmable thermostats programmed to your lifestyle, set and leave for the season. 78 degrees or higher in the summer, 65 or lower in the winter
- Consider installing "zones" in you HVAC system
- Install ceiling fans to move air in occupied rooms, turn off if no one is in the room
- Replace filters in forced air systems at the manufacturers recommended intervals
- Lower the temperature on your water heater, 120 degrees is a good residential hot water temperature
- Plug home electronics into power strips and turn off the power strip to avoid having the electronics in a "vampire" stand-by mode
- Wash only full loads of cloths and dishes, consider solar (line) drying of you cloths
- Take short showers rather than baths
- Turn off your computer and monitor with a power strip when not in use, peripherals should also be on a power strip
- Air dry dishes rather than using the heated dry cycle in the dishwasher
- Use CFL or LED lighting in place of incandescent bulbs
- Keep your curtains closed, open in winter for solar gain
- Install spray foam insulation (soy based) rather than fiberglass batting
- When reroofing use white or grey shingles in place of darker colors, reflective coating on "flat" roofs will also lower heat gain thru the roof
- Replace old plumbing fixtures with low-flow toilets, faucets, shower heads and urinals
- Purchase high quality, modern energy efficient windows and doors. Look for third-party certification from the National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC)
- Dryer climates may promote evaporative cooling, be sure to calculate water costs into their operation
- Plant shade trees on east, south and west exposure
- Do an annual inspection of weather-stripping and caulking to keep conditioned air inside
Please contact me with any questions about these suggestions or other ways to GREEN up your home or remodeling project.
