ENERGY-SAVING IDEAS |
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(NAPSI)-If you're looking to cut home energy bills, you might want to head outside. Experts say a few changes to your yard could save you hundreds of dollars a year on heating and cooling--and considering that the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) reports American families typically spend more than $1,600 a year on energy bills, every bit can help. Try these tips: Your Yard The DOE says properly positioned trees can save up to 25 percent of a home's energy consumption for heating and cooling. Plant trees and tall bushes around the house to serve as windbreakers during cooler months, and on the south, east and west sides of your home to protect it from the hot summer sun. Also, try to select plants that are native to the area when landscaping your yard. They'll tolerate the climate better than other types of plants, meaning they'll need less water, fertilizer and pesticides. Bright Idea Using solar-powered lights on the outside of your home can help safely illuminate entryways while also saving you money. For instance, the ODL Solar Entry Light has four superbright LEDs powered by a solar panel. It provides up to 12 hours of continuous light, depending upon the amount of direct sunlight exposure to the panel. If the entryway does not receive enough sunlight during the day to power the light, homeowners can relocate the panel using 15 feet of wire included with the product. The light is great for entry locations and it can be especially useful on camping trips or for lighting the outside of an RV. Quick Check Regularly check the outside of your home for signs of wasted energy. If, for instance, you notice that snow melts off your home's roof before it melts off the roofs of other houses on the block, it could mean heat is escaping and you need to insulate your attic. Also, be certain that points where plumbing and electrical wiring enter your house are properly sealed and insulated. Finally, consider installing storm doors. They can serve as an extra barrier to heat and cold. For more information, visit www.odl.com. Using solar-powered lights to illuminate entryways could save you some green. |
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