When most people think of energy efficiency, they automatically think of appliances, with an Energy Star rating. However, energy efficiency goes much further than appliances. In fact, there are many things that people can do to help reduce the country’s energy consumption. If everyone joins together in this effort, great things could occur, with one of these being less dependent on fossil fuels. Below, you will discover more information about energy efficiency.
The future is green energy, sustainability, renewable energy.
~ Arnold Schwarzenegger
Combating Climate Change
The world around us is changing as we speak, with an increase in wildfires, global temperature and drought. Many scientists have linked these issues on fossil energy. Governments around the world are encouraging electric companies that provide services to consumers to find safer alternatives. Many of these companies are turning to renewable energy, such as solar and wind power. If something does not happen, the problem will only continue to escalate.
Renewable Energy
Renewable energy does not produce harmful toxins like fossil fuels. One of the most notable toxins produced by fossil fuels is carbon dioxide, which is expected to increase by 58 percent in the near future. Fossil energy technologies have come a long way and today electric companies are getting a large portion of their energy from solar, biomass and geothermal energy, along with hydropower. These sources are naturally replenished by sunlight, rain, wind, waves, tides and geothermal heat.
Things That You Can Do
As government officials are working to find new ways to reduce energy usage, people can do their part by partaking in energy saving techniques. If you own a home, you should start by examining it for air links. Believe it or not, an abundance of warm and cold air will escape out the smallest crevice. Most air is lost through cracks and crevices around doors, windows and plumbing pipes. By sealing these openings, you will not only be reducing energy waste, but also reducing your electric or gas bill.
Choosing Energy Efficient Transportation
Energy efficiency methods do not only need to be put into force at home, but when you are traveling, as well. Most people forget about trying to reduce energy waste, when they are on vacation, because they are focused on exploring the new environment. This is a huge mistake, because you will waste a lot of energy, even when you are staying in a motel or remote cabin, if you do not apply the same energy efficiency rules. Turn off electronics and lighting fixtures that are not being used, be sure to turn these items off, before you set out on a sightseeing adventure.
Instead of taking public transportation, you should consider renting a bike or walking. While it is not possible to reach every destination by food or bike, you can easily reach nearby malls, restaurants and tourist destinations. Many large cities are spending thousands of dollars on new biking infrastructures. These facilities provide the locals and tourists with bike rental options that are very affordable and accessible.
Maintenance Your HVAC Unit
The largest energy-using product in a home setting is a heating and air conditioning system. Most people see the unit as a necessity, because it keeps the ambient temperature in their home comfortable. Did you know that if you do not have the HVAC unit maintained properly and routinely it will not operate efficiently? A heat pump or heating and air conditioning unit that is not operating efficiently will drive up your monthly energy bill. Luckily, there is a solution to fixing this problem and that is air duct cleaning.
The air duct system is how the air enters the home, if this system is clogged down with dirt and other contaminants, it will affect your HVAC unit in a negative way. A licensed air duct cleaning service will clean the air duct system and the outside unit. These two tasks will improve the way the unit operates, reducing energy waste and the monthly electric bill.
What Is Air Duct Cleaning?
Most people know what air duct cleaning services are, but new homeowners may not be familiar with the term. This process is usually done by vent cleaning experts that are employed with a licensed, bonded and insured air duct cleaning service provider. Large rotary brushes are utilized to break the dirt lose from the interior walls of the duct system. Once the rotary brushes do their job, the air duct cleaner will switch on the powerful vacuums to suction out the debris.
The vacuums will suction out the debris into a large container, which will be properly disposed of once the air duct cleaning process is complete. The outdoor unit is cleaned with rotary brushes and a water hose. Leaves, dirt and twigs can get into the unit and restrict the airflow, causing it to work harder. By removing this debris, the restrictions will be removed, so the unit will operate more efficiently.
Reducing Energy Bill
After air duct cleaning services are rendered, most homeowners notice a slight decrease in their energy bill. However, it will take a full month for the reduction to be more significant. Most people are shocked that a dirty air duct system and unit can affect an energy bill so negatively. If you operate an energy efficient home you should definitely consider having your air duct system cleaned. By doing this, you will be doing your part in protecting the Earth from harmful carbon pollutants. Plus, you could possibly save about $20 to $50 monthly on your energy bill.
Conclusion
As mentioned above, your heating and air conditioning system is the largest unit connected to your home. This unit utilizes more energy than any other electrical device so to ensure energy efficiency, have the air duct system cleaning routinely. When you replace your old HVAC unit, be sure to replace it with a brand that is rated by the Energy Star organization. This rating alone will ensure the unit only utilizes the energy needed to operate efficiently. If your unit is 10 years old or older, you may want to go ahead and have it replaced.