While I generally refrain from writing do-it-yourself oriented posts, I picked up some tips last night at a Home Depot Energy Clinic that I couldn’t resist sharing. These ideas really are so easy, anyone can implement them. Better yet, you can go green without having to spend a lot of green. In fact, keeping your home’s energy bill low as we enter the winter season just might count on it.
G
Identify and seal air leaks: Check for leaks around windows, doors, electrical outlets, switches — even attic ceiling hatches – on a cool, windy day. Use a match or lighted incense stick to identify drafts or temperature differences. Apply caulking, weatherstripping or a foam sealant like “Great Stuff” (about $5.00 a can) to seal leaks as appropriate. Additionally, sealing the space between baseboards and floorboards will not only prevent drafts, but will also help keep pests from entering your living areas.
Look for the ENERGY STAR logo: If you are already planning to replace one or more of your home appliances, look for products that have earned the ENERGY STAR distinction. These household products meet strict energy guidelines set by the EPA and US Department of Energy. Appliances bearing the ENERGY STAR logo reduce utility bills, conserve energy and water or come from environmentally-preferred resources. An ENERGY STAR-qualified refrigerator alone consumes 1/2 the energy used by refrigerator models sold 4 years ago. While in the past you may have had to hunt for products with this stamp of approval, I can assure you that this year they are front-and-center on the showroom floor. Plus, as I perused the price tags on these models, I identified no discernable difference in cost versus non-ENERGY STAR items. For more information, visit www.energystar.gov.
Participate in an Energy Clinic: I highly recommend attending an energy workshop at your local Home Depot. They’re free, informative and expected to roll out across the country. Sign up at www.homedepotclinics.com.
Tags: Energy Efficiency, Green, Home Depot
October 25, 2008 at 12:10 am |
hi patti,
great job on the blog! keep up the good work!!
can you tell me more about the “great stuff” product you refer to? it sounds like something i’d be interested in.
terry
October 25, 2008 at 5:44 pm |
Hi Terry,
“Great Stuff” is a foam sealant that stops drafts by filling, sealing and insulating cracks and openings around doors, windows, plumbing and other areas where heat or cool air can escape from your home. The material expands to take the shape of cracks and voids, forming a permanent and airtight barrier that is both cost-effective and energy-efficient. While the product is economical and easy to use, there are different varieties depending upon the type of area you are treating – one for large gaps, one for small gaps & cracks and one for doors & windows. It is easily found at do-it-yourself retailers and hardware stores.
Hope that helps!
October 31, 2008 at 12:17 pm |
Question, you talk about Energy Star applicances saving on the cost of electricity, what is the average life of an applicance today, and does it make sense to replace all older appliances in the home?
Thank you.
October 31, 2008 at 1:42 pm |
Hi Barbara!
Below is a list of appliances and average span (in years) According to the National Association of Home Builders. Of course, they vary depending on the appliance:
Exhaust Fan 10
Compactors 6
Dishwashers 9
Disposers, Food Waste 12
Dryers, Electric 13
Dryers, Gas 13
Freezers 11
Microwave Ovens 9
Ranges, Electric 13
Ranges, Gas 15
Range/Oven Hoods 14
Refrigerators, Compact 9
Refrigerators, Standard 13
Washers 10
Water Heaters, Electric 11
Water Heaters, Gas 10
Air-Conditioners, Room 10
Air-Conditioners, Unitary 15
Boilers, Electric 13
Boilers, Gas 21
Dehumidifiers 8
Furnaces, Warm-Air, Electric 15
Furnaces, Warm-Air, Gas 18
Furnaces, Warm-Air, Oil 20
Heat Pumps 16
Humidifiers 8
If your appliances are within this range, many sources do recommend replacing them given the long-term energy efficiency payback (about 30% in energy savings per month).