Wednesday 29 April 2015

Go green to increase energy-efficiency––and to save money


(NC) Spring is the time of year when homeowners look to refresh, renew and revitalize their homes. So as Mother Nature goes green, did you know that there are plenty of ways to incorporate cost-saving green solutions into your home, as well?
Several tips to increase energy-efficiency include:
1. Take control of heating and cooling. As temperatures warm, turn down the heat and delay the urge to turn on the air conditioner for as long as possible. Instead, throw open your windows to cool your space and help improve indoor air quality, after a long season of being sealed up tight. A programmable thermostat can also ensure you limit energy use when you're not home.
2. Top up your attic insulation. Inadequate insulation in the attic is one of the greatest sources of energy loss in a home. Conversely, adding insulation to your attics is one of the most cost-effective ways to bolster the energy-efficiency of a home. Even if you are a totally unseasoned DIYer, going green is simple with easy-to-install insulation products like Roxul Comfortbatt. This type of stone wool product is earth-friendly and made from abundant natural raw materials, with a recycled content that can be as high as 40 per cent. Aim for an R-value of at least R50 or roughly a depth of 16 inches. For more information and handy tips, visit www.diywithroxul.com.
3. Caulk cracks and crevices around your home. These can be a source of air leaks, which ultimately are a draw on energy consumption.
4. Landscape your home for energy efficiency. Did you know that tall, deciduous trees planted near your home can significantly reduce the amount of solar energy passing through windows and beating down on your roof? In fact, the right amount of shade in the right places can reduce cooling bills by 10 to 50 per cent.
Going green for energy-efficiency is easier than you think, and of course, the most enticing benefit is that it can save you a lot of green, too.

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