Archives for June 2013

Summer Energy $aving Tips

thermostat

Summer has arrived and it’s hot outside. Here are 10 energy saving tips courtesy of the Alliance for Energy that can save you money and keep you cool.

1. Cleaning or changing your furnace or AC filers keeps your system from working harder and slowing down the air flow.

2. Using low flow faucets and shower heads save on water bills.

3. Washing your clothes in cold water saves on your annual utility bills.

4. Reduce your water heater temperature to 130 degrees to save energy and money on heating the water. Wrapping the storage tank with a special water tank blanker retains heat as well.

5. Seal all the air leaks and increase your home insulation. This can keep cool air in and the hot air out!

6. Use your window shades and curtains during the day to keep the heat out in the summer [but open them up in the winter to take advantage of the sun].

7. Turn off lights, any appliances or electric items that are not in use. Some appliances continue to draw power even when not in use.

8. Install a programmable thermostat to save 10% on your cooling and heating bill. Keep the home a little warmer in the summer when you are not at home, and cool it down when you come back from being out. Do the reverse for the winter]

9. Change to new energy efficient light bulbs, using about 1/3 of the energy of a traditional light bulb.

10. Use energy star appliances, and you can save up to 30% on electric bills.

 

What energy change have you made and how much has it saved?

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Cool Shade Ideas

gliderswingA deck can be a beautiful way to enjoy your yard or condo outdoor space, but not in the blazing hot sun. Here are a few easy ways to ramp up the shade and expand your outdoor living for both day and evening.

Plant some fruit trees in pots. The trees will cast a diffused shade and you’ll get some delicious fruit down the road.

Add a glider swing with a canopy. You will have a fun place to relax, the thrill of the ride, and a bonus breeze.

Pop up a folding gazebo. This can be opened as required, and creates a fun design space on the deck.

Retractable screens. Using either a manual pull across screen, or one that is motorized lets you beat the heat during the day and still star gaze at night.

Build a trellis and use planters with vines to fill in the gaps and provide both shade from above and privacy from the sides.

Rig up a sail cloth. This can be any size or shape, partially covering the deck, pulled taut by wires.

Set up some island flair. Hang decorative grass mats to create a tropical feel while casting shade.

Most of all, make sure you enjoy your great outdoor space! What’s the most interesting shade idea that you have seen?

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