In Part 1 of this 2-part series, we explored 5 easy tips for increasing the energy efficiency of your home or business.
- The more energy efficient you become, the more excess solar electricity you can sell to the utility at a profit (under San Diego’s net metering program).
- The more profit potential you have, the higher the returns on your San Diego solar installation.
In Part 2, we continue the discussion and look at 5 additional ways to reduce energy consumption at home.
Let’s begin.
1. Avoid Standby Power
Most of us were raised to turn off TVs, computers, and other home appliances when we’re not using them.
But many of these appliances come with standby power. Even if the TV is off, you’ll see a tiny blue or red light indicating that the unit is still receiving electricity.
This standby power is a huge energy hog, accounting or 75% of the electricity that many home appliances use. That’s correct. Your TV and computer use more energy when they’re “off” than when they’re on.
The only way around this is to unplug completely – including unused phone chargers.
2. Use CFL Light Bulbs
Did you know that most of the electricity flowing through an incandescent light never gets used? It’s just wasted energy (in the form of heat).
To cut down on electricity consumption, use compact florescent light bulbs (CFLs) instead. They use 75% less power and last 10 times as long. CFLs cost more upfront, but they pay for themselves very quickly.
3. Proper Home Insulation
As mentioned in the previous article, 50% of your home’s energy costs go to heating and cooling. You can reduce this by insulating your home properly – for both summers and winters. Failure to insulate forces your AC units and furnace to work overtime.
4. Speaking of Thermostats
Many of us leave the thermostat running at the same level all day, every day. This is pure waste. When we’re asleep at night or away during the day, there’s no reason to keep our HVAC units running full steam.
Instead, buy a “smart” thermostat that can intelligently regulate temperatures when you’re not around. This is a huge energy saver.
5. Intelligent Landscaping
You can further boost your home’s insulation by planting trees or shrubs next to exterior walls – usually 1 foot away. This creates pockets of dead air that protect your home from both hot and cold temperatures.
More Tips to Boost the ROI of Your San Diego Solar Installation?
The tips covered in this 2-part series represent some of the easiest and least expensive methods for reducing your energy consumption and boosting the ROI of your San Diego solar installation.
But honestly, we’ve only scratched the surface.
If you’re looking for more ways to increase efficiency, contact us today for a free solar evaluation and home energy audit.
