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How to Make Your Home More Efficient and Save Money
By Dan & Brenda Wyatt | August 1, 2008
I don’t know about you, but I love to save money any way I can. With the recent incentives and rebates given by San Diego Gas & Electric to “Go Green“, I have also considered making my own home more energy efficient. I get to update my home and save money at the same time.With energy and gas rates on the rise as well as being aware of the amount of consumption that goes on in our San Diego and La Jolla areas, I feel that it is smart to do what I can to reduce the rise of consumption and become more energy efficient.
I realize that sometimes people just don’t have the time to look things up, so I felt that it would be great to share my findings with the public. What I have done is broken down the most common categories that are being talked about on how to “Go Green”.
Air Conditioning:
Try to keep your thermostat set at the highest comfortable level. If and when you replace your AC, make sure you buy one that is properly sized for your home. Bigger is not better in this case. Don’t run ceiling fans in rooms that aren’t occupied. Using a “whole house fan” can be very beneficial for cooling off your attic and home.
Water Heating:
Insulating your water heater depends on the location and age. Most of the newer models already have insulation in them. Save money by using less hot water. Use low flow showerheads if possible, wash cloths in warm or cold water and only run full loads in your washer or dishwasher. You can also use a timer on your water heater to save money on the electricity used.
Major Appliances:
One of the largest energy consumers is your refrigerator and freezers. If at all possible, eliminate an extra freezer. If you are planning to update your appliances, consider spending a bit more to purchase Energy Star products. When drying cloths, try to use the lowest temperature setting. The hotter the heat the higher the consumption.
Insulation and Weatherization:
You should have at least insulated with R-38 whenever possible. If you are adding insulation always use unfaced batts as the paper of foil vapor retarder can trap water vapor in the original insulation. Also, if you are adding insulation, use R-15 or higher. Use double pane windows as it acts an insulator. When you decide to update the exterior of your home, using vinyl siding is most beneficial.
These are just a few of the simple ways you can reduce your energy consumption. Of course updating appliances, air conditioners and insulation cost money up front, but, it will save money in the long run.
If you have any additional questions about how to make your home more energy efficient or updates you can make, don’t hesitate to contact me.
I am always available to help.
Topics: Energy Efficiency and Awareness |