Other Energy Conservation Tips
Compact Fluorescent Lights: These bulbs are made to last about 6 to 12 times longer, and use up to 75% less energy than regular light bulbs. This is the most cost effective savings to see on your energy bill. The costs for these bulbs are around $3, and you can see your payback within 7.5 months.
Air Conditioning Filters: Changing your air filter on a monthly basis will keep your air conditioner working at ease, when your filter becomes dirty, the system has to work much harder to push the air through and therefore using much more energy thus in return to a higher energy bill. New filters can cost anywhere from $5-$10, and window-units can simply be wiped down. Keeping your filter clean saves about 7% in electricity costs a year and not to mention the longevity you’ll provide for the air conditioning unit itself. In cooler climates it is not necessary to change monthly but do keep it part of a monthly routine to check.
Attic Insulation: Even though it is well known that having your attic insulated can significantly reduce your energy costs, many homes still have little to no insulation at all. Depending on your climate, if in a warmer area you can see pay back in a year in a half. The cost can range normally on a 2,000 sq. ft. house from $500-$700. Check your local power company for cash rebates to customers who install additional insulation to their home.
Window Treatments: providing blinds or shades to your windows does more than just decorate but can also cut cooling bills in the summer and heating in the winter. Windows that face south and west should have shades to block the sunlight and reduce the need for air conditioning. Inexpensive summer shades can be provided for a cost of $5-$10. Curtains however can provide more insulation against outside temperatures in both winter and summer and go for $30 and up to as much as $150. Many variables are considered in the overall payback. However, the time can be as quickly as under a year to almost 4 years.
Sealing Air Leaks: Without even realizing it, your cool or warm air maybe escaping through air ducts, gaps around windows and doors, electrical sockets often over looked is another source of air leaks. These leaks in time can play a major part of your energy bill. Caulk for windows is a cost of about $10 a window and can be inserted in the frame and siding. Electrical sockets can be fixed with outlet sealers and range under $10 for a six pack. The EPA estimates savings up to 20% of your heating and cooling up to 10% on your total energy bill.
Zager Plumbing and Solar, Inc
149 SE 4th Street
Deerfield Beach, FL 33441
1-800-870-6321
954-481-2629
Fax: 954-481-1654
CFC 041677
CVC 56804

Florida Solar Energy Industries Association |

Plumbing
Heating Cooling
Contractors Association |

American
Solar
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