Green Living: Summer Energy Savings

Provided By Realty Times

Summer heat is a mastermind at emptying our wallets. In today's economy, many families cannot afford large rises in their monthly bills. How can you keep energy costs low this Summer?

Implement these simple tips into your daily routine and you'll find big savings

First, substitute traditional incandescent bulbs with Compact Fluorescent Lights(CFLs). The initial cost may be higher, but CFLs use less energy and last 1,000's of times longer.

The next consideration can save you money now and later. There are numerous tax credits available for energy upgrades, such as insulated windows. You can visit energystar.gov to get the specifics. Insulated windows and doors are a great way to keep cool air in and hot air out. If you are replacing windows, consider using an insulating window wrap around the new install. This will help reduce energy loss from around the window.

Now is also a good time to do a quick home inspection. Check for leaky duct work. There's no reason to pay to cool your attic! Be sure that attic vents are open and have good circulation.

If you live in an old house, you may find that your attic insulation is non-existent or in need of upgrading. Do a thorough inspection of your home to see where it needs some TLC.

Next, embrace fans. They can circulate and move air, requiring less need for air conditioning.

Speaking of air conditioning, there is now a new alternative to traditional window units. Window units are eyesores that lack energy efficiency. For around $300 to $500you can buy portable AC units. These portable units mean you can move them from room to room as needed. They use a no-drip technology that saves money by using an eco-friendly refrigerant gas. They also come with an adjustable thermostat and 24-hour countdown timer -- two more energy-efficient upgrades.

If you have central air, be sure to keep the temperature turned up during the day when you are away from the house. Don't turn the unit off completely, since then it has to work overtime to cool the house when you arrive home. If you can, program your thermostat to turn down 30 to 45 minutes before you return home each day.

To keep your unit working at optimum efficiency, replace your air filter regularly and have it serviced when needed.

Next on the list of ways to reduce your energy bill is keeping appliances unplugged when not in use. Even if an appliance is off, but still plugged in, it will be drawing power. Keep appliances unplugged, or go for a clean-line look and store them whenever they aren't in use.

These are just a few tips that can help you reduce your energy bill. Good luck saving this Summer!

Are you interested in a 'greener' home? Give us a call at 972-772-7000 or email us at frontdesk552@kw.com.