San Diego Green Home Agent: Easy Tips to Get Green
Posted by Gretchen Pagnotta | Visited 890 times, 1 so far today | Currently 1 Comment »
Did you know that the average American Family spends $2,200 on energy each year, (according to the U.S. Department of Energy).
Here are some very simple steps you can take to…….
Save the Planet and Save your Cash
Paint – Conventional paints emit toxic VOCs, (volatile organic compounds). There are many companies that now offer low and even no-VOC paints. Most tints contain some VOCs so you may have to trade a rich palette for healthier air.
Water Heater - Insulating your water heater with a water heater blanket or jacket can cut costs by as much as 45%. These can usually be purchased for under $50. Lowering the water temperature from 140 degrees F to 120 degrees F can also save energy. If you have a very old water heater, you may want to think about replacing it with an Energy Star rated one, (tankless models are the most efficient).
Windows - If you’re replacing or adding windows, use double-pane glazing. In cold climates, choose gas-filled windows, (usually krypton or argon) with low-emissivity (low-E) coatings – super thin layers of metallic oxide that keep heat in. In warm climates, ask about coatings that reduce heat gain. To improve the efficiency of existing windows, add clear plastic film in winter, or install storm windows.
Thermostat - Installing an Energy Star-rated programmable thermostat is one of the easiest ways to save resources and money. Using preprogrammed temperatures lets you cut back on your energy use at night – saving you about $180 a year, (according to the U.S. Department of Energy). Tip – Lower your thermostat by just 3 degrees and you’ll save about 10% on your heating bill!!!
Insulation – Only 20% of homes built before 1980 are well insulated. Insulation is one of the best ways to ensure your home’s energy efficiency. Contact your local energy supplier to arrange for an on-site energy audit, or try a do-it-yourself audit, (visit hes.lbl.gov for instructions). Sealing leaks around doors, windows and outlets is also key.
For more information or tips about “Going Green”,
please contact your Certified Green Agent, Gretchen Pagnotta!!!
760-715-0478 or GBPagnotta@gmail.com
Also watch for upcoming Blogs by Your Certified Green Real Estate Agent:
* Selecting a Green Real Estate Agent
* How to Find a Green Builder
* How to Build a Green Home
* What is the Leeds Certification
Information taken from “Your Good House”, November 2009 Issue
The Government helped out the banks, but who helps out the average man on the street? No one. Banks are dragging their feet with loan modifications. Why? Because if asset values go up, they wont have to show as big a loss. In the meantime, hundreds of fine folks are losing their homes. We now reveal Insider tips to avoid foreclosures. Its a free report you can get at Save My House Tips.