Many people today are trying to be more environmentally-conscious. This may not only help protect the environment, but it can also help you save money. There are a number of changes that you can make that will make your home more energy-efficient.
Install Energy-Efficient Lighting
Lighting accounts for about 11 percent of your home energy use. If you install Energy Star qualified lighting fixtures and light bulbs, then you can cut your lighting usage 50 to 75 percent. Energy Star lighting also gives off less heat, so it can keep your home cooler in the summer time.
Install Solar Panels
The average cost of a solar panel is around $12,000. However, you will recuperate these costs over a 15 to 20-year period. The amount of money that you will be able to save depends on the area that you live in. If you live in Philadelphia, then you can save $17,985 in energy over the course of a 20-year-period. You can save $39,542 over the course of a 20-year period if you live in Seattle.
Solar panels generate electricity by using energy from the sun. They protect the environment by reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Traditional electricity is made from natural gas and fossil fuels.
Replace Your Heating and Air Conditioning
Replacing your heating and air conditioning system can cost you hundreds of dollars. However, you will be able to save a lot of money by replacing your current unit. Because heating and air conditioning systems account for approximately 43 percent of your home energy consumption, you can drastically cut your monthly electric bill. In fact, if your air conditioner is over 12-years-old, then you can cut your electric bill by 30 percent by replacing it with a new one. Talk with a professional like HELP Plumbing, Heating, Cooling and Electric or someone similar to see how viable this would be for you.
Install an Energy-Efficient Water Heater
An energy efficient water heater can cut your home energy usage by 12 percent. In addition to getting a new water heater, there are other things that you can do in order to save money. You can turn down the temperature on your thermostat. You can also insulate your water heater. Additionally, you can reduce the amount of hot water that you use. Work with a professional like
Being environmentally-conscious can help you save a lot of money. If you have an old air conditioner, then you should consider replacing it. You may also want to install energy-efficient lighting and an energy-efficient water heater. Additionally, you may want to invest in a solar panel.