Energy Saving Tips
When it comes to Energy Saving, we've been there, done that, now serving 21 tips in 6 categories ranging from Electric Heating to Solar Power.
Electric Heating
With winter time coming in most of the United States everyone is starting to prepare for those large electric heating bills once again this year but there are a few tips to help you save some of that energy cost. In a survey taken last year many individuals were put to the test to try to reduce their electric use by 100kw or more and they did so by doing some very simple procedures. The most popular one was unplugging everything that you do not use including the toaster, extra clocks, the microwave, computer, television and DVD players when they when it is not in use. If you also watch what light you have on and if you truly need them on or not. One last thing that consumers did was to drop the thermostat on their heat pumps by 2 degrees, that was a huge saver with their electric bill.
The average kilowatt savings on each consumer that participated in this survey and followed the procedures above was 110kw and had a dollar savings of between $25 and $45 depending on where they were located.
Garage Door Insulation Tips
You might ask yourself why bother taking the time to add garage door insulation to my long list of things to do? Garages are just used for storage of junk you don’t use anymore and to keep our cars safe, right? In fact, there are several benefits to garage door insulation, similar to those gained by installing efficient windows in your home.
Garage door insulation will cut energy costs for your home – keeping the air warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer. Garage door insulation also reduces moisture, fends of bug infestation, and lessens inside noise from work being done in that space. Finally, garage door insulation extends the life of your garage door – by protecting the mechanics from the elements and providing a barrier from the drastic swings in temperature that can weaken the door itself.
There are several great garage door insulation kits available in the market (check out any local home improvement store) ranging from products using foam sheathing or reflective foil. Easy to install and well worth the time it takes.
The Benefits To Double Glazed Windows
Double glazed windows are windows that have air or Argon, which is an inert gas, between the two panes of glass. The ones with Argon are better windows to keep your home heated and cooled. The Argon is more dense than regular air, which provides a better insulation.
Also, the pane of glass that faces the interior has a special coating on it. This coating reflects heat in the winter and reduces the heat coming into your home during the summer.
The quality of film used on the window makes a difference as well. Double glazing offers extra protection by reducing the amount of UV rays that come into your home, which will fade your furniture. These windows just use two sheets of the glazing, which add insulation without eliminating transparency.
Double glazed windows can save you as much as 50 percent on your energy bill.
Having double glazed windows offer you one more level of protection from intruders as well.
Increased home security, being cozy and saving money on your energy bills are all excellent reasons for choosing double glazed windows in your home.
Radiant Insulation Tips
Energy efficient heating is a must is these tough economic times. One of the best ways to save is the use of radiant insulation. Radiant insulation is installed on the inside of your roof, and blocks the heat that would otherwise make it into your home. In colder climates it can be used for the opposite, by preventing heat from escaping.
The following tips will help you get the most from your radiant insulation.
1. For the most energy efficient heating, be sure to have your radiant insulation installed by a professional.
2. To keep condensation levels low, use perforated insulation if it is to be installed on the floor of your attic. If moisture is not allowed to escape mold could occur.
3. Radiant insulation conducts electricity extremely well, so be sure it is clear from areas that contain electrical outlets and wires.
4. Though it can be installed on the floor, dust can cause radiant insulation to lose it's effectiveness. Installation between the rafters of the roof is preferred.
5. The reflective surface should always face out into the air space. It will not be able to serve it's purpose otherwise.
Radiant insulation is a smart choice for anyone that wants their home kept at a comfortable temperature, with the added benefit of reduced energy costs.
Energy Consultants Think Outside the Box
As green and alternate fuel technology grows, a niche has developed for job seekers willing to think outside the box. A Ă¢â‚¬Å“greenĂ¢â‚¬ï¿½ field of opportunity has opened in both the private and public sector for certified energy consultants.
Energy consultants combine the finesse of a salesperson with the education of college grad. That degree in engineering, geology, or environmental studies can catapult you into this exciting area. Even an economics degree comes in handy as cost breakdowns and expenditures need to be analyzed. Whether working for a firm, freelancing on your own, or working for the Federal, State, or city municipalities, energy advice remains in demand.
Qualifiers must be analytical and willing to research. People skills are required since energy consultants must be able to break down a complex analysis in a way that holds the interest of the client thus spurring him on to action. The salary for such a broad field of opportunity varies greatly. Of course, the more education one has, the higher the income becomes. Generally speaking, a sales rep/energy consultant with one to four years of experience can make anywhere from $41,950 to $73,460 states Payscale.com. More experienced energy consultants who have also specialized can expect to make from $87,197 to $134,921 a year, according to Salary.com
Hey, turn off the light!
How many times have you heard someone telling you to that in order to save energy and to save on the electric bill? That’s a good practice for both of those reasons, but to increase your savings even more, purchase ENERGY STAR Qualified Compact Fluorescent Light bulbs (CFLs). These energy saving products can boost your home energy savings up to $40.00 over the life of the bulb. These CFLs use 75% less energy than standard bulbs and produce 75% less heat, adding to your overall home energy savings.
One of the most annoying things is to be reading under a light that produces so much heat that when you are done reading, you realize you have also gotten a suntan! So before your friends and family ask if you have recently gotten back from a vacation in the Virgin Islands, make the switch to CFLs.
You’ve seen them, although you may not recognize them by name. They are the bulbs with the wavy looking shape, almost like you’re taking a florescent light, twisting it and then placing it upon the base.
They are extremely popular among current energy savings products and give the lamps in your home an up to date look, while being part of a total home energy savings program!
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| Carma Spence-Pothitt |
