It feels good to go green. It helps save the environment, and it also helps save you money. The best part about being more energy efficient is that it does not require a lot of effort or extra money. Here are Warner Service’s favorite ways to go green:
Unplug it. Even though a device or appliance is turned off, it still requires using energy to keep it on “sleep mode.” These phantom loads account for about 6 percent of all national residential electricity consumption. To avoid using unnecessary energy, simply unplug your appliance or device when you are not using it. If you need to use all of your devices, consider investing in a power strip or power timer.
Trust the label. When buying a home appliance, trust the Environment Protection Agency’s Energy Star label. These products use between 10 to 50 percent less energy and water than the leading brands. Though they are typically more costly than the other brands, their lack of energy consumption will save you the difference on your bills.
Replace your light bulbs. One of the most simple and effective ways to save energy is to purchase compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFLs) or light-emitting diodes (LEDs) instead of regular incandescent bulbs. These light bulbs use 75 percent less energy and last about 10 times longer than the others. CFLs also reduce mercury emissions because they lessen the need for electricity from mercury-emitting power plants.
Program it. Install a programmable thermostat. These “smart” devices can save you up to 15 percent on heating and cooling costs by automatically adjusting your home’s temperature to your schedule. If you want to cut the cost even more, use stationary, ceiling and whole-house fans to cool your home during the summer months. This will reduce the need for air conditioning, saving you between 7 to 10 percent on your next bill.
Install storm windows. If your wallet permits this change, go for it. Storm windows reduce temperature loss by sealing air leaks and creating dead airspace between windowpanes. If you are looking for a faster return on investment, use bubble wrap to cover your existing windows and improve insulation. This can reduce heat loss by up to 50 percent. You can also use this technique for your home’s attic, walls, floors and ceilings.
Be frugal with the water. We are not suggesting cold showers, but using less hot water will directly save you money on your next bill. Take faster showers, fully load the dishwasher and washing machine before running it and completely turn off leaky faucets. You can also install low-flow showerheads and toilets to save money and water.
Plant greenery. Aside from a curb appeal, planting shady trees around your home can lower your energy bills during the summer because it directly reduces your home’s exposure to the sun. Properly planted trees can cut your electric bill up to 40 percent. If you properly place shrubbery around your home, you can expect to see saving on your heating bill in the winter. The bushes act as natural insulation if they are planted within 1 foot away from your home.
Paint your roof white. Buildings with white roofs required up to 40 percent less energy than those with darker roofs. This means saving about $120 or more per year in cooling costs.
To make a positive impact on the environment and your wallet, you can invest in small projects, such as changing your light bulbs, unplugging electronics and using less hot water, or you can tackle bigger jobs like painting your roof white or purchasing new windows and appliances. For any questions or to schedule an appointment, contact Warner Service today.