Six Sure Ways to Save Energy

Spring planting season is here again, and before you choose your plants this year, take a moment to check out some plants that can cut your energy bill by as much as 25%.

1. Shade trees are seven times more effective than window shades or curtains at reducing air-conditioner costs. Shading your air-conditioner compressors alone can increase cooling efficiency by 10%. Plant bushy broad leaved trees, such as maples, oaks, beeches and poplars to the east and west of your house. They will shade your house in summer and in winter the leaves will drop away so the sun can shine through to help heat your house.
2. To block winter winds which can cause a third of your home's heat loss, plant evergreens trees close together as a wind break on the side of the house that faces prevailing winds. If that is the side that benefits most from the summer breeze, you will have to decide which saves you more-blocking the winter wind or gaining the breeze.
3. Shower heads flow five or six gallons of water per minute. Low flow shower heads-available at most hardware stores can cut that in half without appreciably changing the quality of your shower. Look for a brand that delivers no more than three gallons per minute. It's a saving of about 25 dollars a person over the year. Check with your utility company, they might supply you one for free.
4. Faucets often waste more hot water than showers. Easy to install faucet aerators reduce water flow by 40% to 60%, cuts down on splashing, and still provides you with good water intensity. Your savings will double your investment within a year.
5. Heat reflectors, which prevent radiator heat from being absorbed by the walls are generally made of rigid plastic foam and covered by reflective metal foil. Buy them at home centers and hardware stores and slide them between walls, and radiators. You will save enough to pay for the reflectors in one season.
6. If the outside of your water heater feels warm or hot, you are wasting gas or electricity. Water heater blankets are easy to apply as long as you read the instructions closely. Don't cover the power wiring of an electric heater or the gas openings of a gas fired water heater. Your savings should cover your investment in a year.