Energy Efficient Living
As America's need for energy grows, so does the need for energy efficiency. If you adopt energy efficient behaviors and technologies, you can reduce your energy consumption and save money.
One way homes can become energy efficient is through the EnergyStar® certified homes program. Homes in this program are built to meet strict energy efficient standards set by the EPA. EnergyStar® certified homes are at least 30% more energy efficient than homes built to the 1993 national model energy code. This certification is achieved through a combination of energy efficient heating, cooling, hot water use, energy efficient appliances, and lighting. The benefits of an EnergyStar® certified home are improved home quality and homeowner comfort, lower environmental demand, air pollution reduction, and lower utility costs.
Here are some quick ways to help decrease the amount of energy you use and lower your energy bill.
Increasing your lighting efficiency is one of the fastest ways to decrease your energy bill.
Heating and Cooling
There are many ways to reduce the amount of conditioned air that is lost and decrease the amount of energy spent to heat and cool your home.
Save energy and cut down on the amount of money spent on water heating.
Insulation acts as a barrier to keep home temperatures more constant while reducing your energy costs.
Landscaping for Energy Efficiency
Landscaping is a good way to keep energy costs down in the home.
Renewable energy can help our country move towards energy independence and environmental sustainability.
- Energy Savers: Tips on Saving Energy and Money at Home
- Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy--U.S. Department of Energy
- Evaluating Green Communities: Top Eleven Questions to Ask
- Take the 6˚ of Energy Efficiency Quiz