Energy Tips
These energy tips will help you cover your energy needs with a green energy source.
Construction of your home
- Use sustainable materials, such as recycled and sustainably harvested wood
- Use more sustainable and effective insulations like cellulose products and recycled materials
- Meet or exceed recommended levels of insulation for windows and doors
- Select exterior and roofing colors and materials based on your environment
- Lighter colors will repel solar radiant heat (use in warmer climates)
- Darker colors will hold on to it (use in cooler climates)
Energy decisions
- Conduct a home energy audit (free ones available through your utility like PECO)
- Understand and manage how and how much your electronics use electricity
- Zombie use can be managed with smart plugs and power strips or by unplugging cords
- Choose electronics that are Energy Star Certified, whenever possible
- Turn off electronics when they are not in use
- Use LED light bulbs
- Buy renewable electricity if you live in an area with energy choice (as an example PA Power Switch allows you to find low-cost renewable energy for your home or business). If not, contact your utility about building more renewable energy
- Install solar panels and batteries if you are able to
Home management
- Electrify as much as possible (HVAC, water heaters, stoves, cars)
- Use smart home technology like Nest thermostats and smart lights
- Use basic technology like ceiling fans and blinds to reduce energy use
- Eliminate leaks and dripping faucets, toilets, and pipes
- Purchase water-efficient appliances, such as low-flow toilets and shower heads
Kitchen
- Reduce or eliminate single-use plastics like water bottles, shopping bags, and sandwich bags
- Reduce meat consumption, especially beef and pork, and out-of-season foods