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Energy Efficiency

Energy efficiency has to do with all the ways we use energy.  There are the obvious things to consider like taking mass transit as opposed to driving or turning off lights when leaving a room.  Energy efficiency goes beyond the obvious and encompasses most all aspects of our lives.

Do you drink water out of disposable water bottles?  Water is good, drink plenty.  Plastic, not so good, avoid it when you can.  Plastic takes energy and natural resources to make and then has to be disposed of when you are done with it.  Water can be filtered in your existing water line, cooled in your refrigerator and then stored, or carried, in reusable containers.  Energy efficiency can be the big things, and the little things, but it all adds up.

Around the house conserving energy should be a top priority.  It is prerequisite to all other forms of alternative energy.  Before you begin to price those solar panels everyone is raving about do a home audit.  Make sure your home is tight with no enormous air leeks.  Most homes could do with large doses of caulking, foam insulation and weatherproofing.  A home audit will show you exactly what must be done.

You will also need to take a close look at your appliances.  Are you using Energy Star appliances and have you closely monitored their use?  Have all family members been informed of the importance of turning stuff off when not in use.

When your home, and occupants, are energy efficient you can begin to look at other forms of energy to further reduce your carbon footprint.  Solar panel work wonders to lower you utility bills but are a big waist of money if you are not conserving your power usage.  When considering solar be sure to look into the rebates and tax incentives, some of them can be very lucrative.

It is also possible to start going solar a little at a time.  Outdoor electric uses are one place to start.  All of your out door lighting as well as your pool pumps and shed utility needs can easily be handled with solar power.  This can all be done a little at a time, as you can afford it.  The more you use solar power the more you are likely to fall in love with it and continue to invest in it.

Solar hot water is another starting point for going solar.  Using solar to heat your water is probably the fastest return on investment of all the different alternative energy systems.  Starting with a well insulated Energy Star water heater is a good starting point and will allow you to get the most out of you solar installation.

Water is also a form of energy that needs to be conserved.  Repair any dripping faucets and use low pressure shower heads.  Do your part to conserve water and you will be saving energy and money.

Be sure to read all of our pages about how you can become for energy efficient.  You will be saving money and helping to green the earth, nothing at all wrong with that.  Energy efficiency is something we all need to become more knowledgeable of and involved in.

Top of Energy Efficiency

Home Energy Audit : Hybrid Cars : Other Energy Savers
Star Energy Water Heaters : Stimulus Package : Stimulus Rebate
Weatherization : What is Energy Conservation : What's In The Stimulus Bill
Why Is Water Conservation Important : Green Living : Conserving
Reducing Energy Usage : Efficient Home : Green Building
Arizona Energy Rebates : New Mexico Solar Tax Credit : Home Energy Rating Service
Cost of Running Appliances : Use a Fireback For More Heat : Reduce Heating Costs
Solar Pool Heat : Efficient Home Siding : Insulate To Save
Saving Energy And Money : Saving Water : Low Voltage Outdoor Lighting
Outdoor Solar Lighting : Finding Air Leaks : Efficient Windows