The Home Connection

With all the buzz about going green, how can home owners determine if their home meets neighborhood standards for environmental responsibility? An energy efficient home consumes less power to perform usual household energy functions, like water heating and climate control. Going green not only helps the environment and makes a great conversation starter with the neighbors, but green homeowners also save money on monthly utility bills. In residential homes, energy efficiency generally refers to how the home insulation methods, heating and cooling system, water heating, and appliances work to effectively reduce household energy consumption.

Increase your home's energy efficiency to be an energy thrifty homeowner and save a buck by investigating the most essential green household solutions:

Heating and Cooling: If your heating or air conditioning system is more than 9 years old, use a high efficiency replacement to reduce energy consumption and lower your power bill. Even if the initial replacement is pricey, investing in environmentally responsible climate control solutions provides long term energy savings . Of course, solar heating systems, which collect energy from the sun with solar panels to power your home, are the most efficient, but if you're still using electric or oil, at least switch to gas fast.

Insulation: To achieve desired energy savings with a high efficiency heating and cooling system, use appropriate home insulation methods. Adequate insulation reduces energy needed to maintain the home temperature. Ensure that heated and cooled air doesn't escape through the attic and basement by properly insulating your home. Update old widows and doors with energy efficient replacements. Energy efficient windows and doors help regulate the home temperature by preventing drafts and air leaks.

Water heating system: Electric water heaters on a timer provide the most energy efficient water heating. For the greatest hot water efficiency with out switching to electric water heating, use an energy recovery system, such as Thermodrain or Power Pipe. Energy recovery systems use hot water collected from showers, dishwashers, and other appliances to heat cold water entering the water heater.

Electrical appliances: Purchase household appliances - especially big energy users, such as refrigerators, freezers, and washers and dryers - with an Energy Star rating.