In today’s age of rising energy costs and increased attention to global warming, there is a lot of discussion about energy efficiency and renewable energy. As a homeowner, how do you know the best way to save money on your utility bills? Often times, homeowners believe replacing windows is their best option to cut down on drafts and reduce energy consumption. In reality, window replacement almost never has a good energy payback. We begin our series of articles about home energy efficiency by looking at the best ways to save money.
#1: Conservation
It might sound simple, but the best way to save money on your utility bills is through changing your personal habits. Things like taking shorter showers, turning off lights when not in use, turning down your water heater, letting laundry air dry, setting the thermostat a little lower, etc. can all have significant effects on your utility bill. And conservation has the best energy payback because after all – it’s free! For tips on ways to conserve energy, check out the US Department of Energy’s page on saving energy (http://www1.eere.energy.gov/consumer/tips/save_energy.html).
#2: Energy Efficiency
Once a homeowner has changed as many personal habits as possible, the next best option is making the home more energy efficient. A relatively small investment can drastically bring down utility bills while increasing a home’s comfort. Things like air sealing; adding insulation to the attic, foundation and side walls; replacing inefficient heating appliances; and installing a programmable thermostat all have great payback (2-8 years).
#3: Renewable Energy Options
Solar photovoltaic (solar electric), solar hot water, wind and geothermal systems are all very popular right now. There is something very satisfying about producing your own energy and not relying as much on the energy company’s fossil fuels. The caveat is that many owners of renewable systems feel that because they produce a portion of their own energy, there is no need to reduce consumption and increase efficiency. With renewable options being more expensive and having a longer payback period, it’s important to ensure the above two options are always considered before renewables are installed. Having said that, between increased government incentives and a decreased cost of installation, renewable energy options finally make smart financial sense (especially solar hot water). An important thing to remember is that each home is unique and the characteristics of the home’s residents are also unique. No two houses will have the exact same recommendations. Hiring a qualified home energy consultant and/or a renewable site assessor is essential in determining your home’s best payback options.
Related Articles
For More Information
For further information, please contact Piping Plover Home Energy Solutions at 608-826-HOME. With one quick phone call we can compare your home’s energy use to energy efficient homes of the same size and age in Dane County to determine whether or not an in-depth home energy assessment is necessary. We then perform an analysis that integrates your home’s energy use with renewable site assessments to ultimately determine your best investment. Feel free to visit our website at www.PipingPloverEnergy.com.
Email this article to a friend:
Back
|
Print Version