Energy efficient light Via Flickr: laudu
Ask Abbe Edelman or any other NJ property appraiser about some of the trends in home improvements and it is likely going green will be near the top of the list. There can be many reasons for going green for both those who are preparing their home for resale; and for those who are going to remain in their home. For those staying in their present residence, going green can mean a substantial savings on utility bills. For homeowners who choose to go with greener options for the purpose of resell, they may actually find out that it was an influencing factor at their home appraisal. No matter what, going green is a good option and there are some ways to make every home greener.
Programmable Thermostats
Installing a programmable thermostat is a very simple way to green up your home. This device can save energy and reduce the utility bills. Most of the utility companies suggest that a thermostat be set on 68 degrees during the colder months and on 78 in the warmer months. A programmable thermostat can help the home remain at these temperatures. Programming each individual device may vary but most of them allow the homeowner to set separate programs for weekends and weekdays since schedules usually vary. The thermostat can be set to a higher temperature while the family is gone to work or school; and then just before time for them to return it will automatically return to a more comfortable temperature. This can mean substantial savings over the long haul.
More Efficient Options for Lighting
Traditional incandescent light bulbs use quite a bit more electrical energy than the newly designed LED or CFLs (Compact Fluorescent Lamps). The greener options may be more costly initially, but the savings over time will be noticeable. CFLs can save as much as $60 per bulb. Some individuals do not prefer the light that is emitted from CFLs. The LED is not quite as efficient, but it is still much greener than using outdated incandescent bulbs.
Tankless Water Heater
A tankless water heater can be much more cost effective than the water tank. The traditional water tank has to run all the time to ensure that the water being stored stays hot. The tankless water heater operates on-demand. It will only heat the water when it is used rather than wasting energy keeping it hot even though it is not being used. This way you are not wasting electrical energy by heating 40 or 50 gallons of water all the time. The tankless water heater will heat the water when it is needed and it will never run out of hot water.
Green Heating and Cooling
Most areas use the HVAC all year round, whether it is for heating or cooling or both. Heating and cooling a home can be about half of the home’s energy consumption. Newer Energy Star rated HVAC systems can translate into substantial savings over the older units. When an HVAC system is properly installed it can reduce energy costs by nearly one third. Upgrading to a newer energy efficient model can help conserve energy. By adding insulation to key areas such as the attic and walls heated or cooled air will be less likely to escape the home. Installing Energy Star ceiling fans can help keep the home comfortable as well. Ceiling fans are more efficient than older types of fans since they consume much less energy to operate. Many types of ceiling fans are remotely operated for convenience sake or they can be operated with a wall switch. Ceiling fans can help circulate heated or cooled air which will help reduce utility costs.
