Environment

Energy Efficiency Goes Beyond Resource Usage Control

by Ethan Luke in 17.03.2010 21:46

A home can be a greater source of pollution than a car, according to Energy Star, a U.S Government Environmental Protection Agency. The agency has reported that 16 percent of U.S. greenhouse gas emissions are the result of energy used in households nationwide. This is because the energy used in U.S. homes often comes from fossil fuel burning power plants. These power plants use up precious natural resources, pollute and contribute to acid rain, smog, and other environmental issues. If the nation were able to rein in home energy use, pollution and environmental impact could be drastically reduced.

This benefit alone is enough for some homeowners to switch to energy efficient homes. However, energy efficiency goes beyond pollution control. Properly installed energy-efficient improvements deliver better protection against cold, heat, drafts, moisture, pollution, and noise creating a more inhabitable environment in which to live. An energy-efficient home also helps to ensure consistent temperatures, improved air quality, and greater durability. These factors can lead to healthier homeowners, and lower utility costs.

A key component to a comfortable, energy efficient home is an intelligent purchase and installation of insulation. If not properly installed, a home can experience excessive heat gain during warm months and heat loss during cool months. This can force heating and cooling systems to work overtime, and utility bills to sky-rocket. By properly installing the correct insulation, homeowners can minimize temperature fluctuations and can cut the energy use of a home by half.

Qualified homes use substantially less energy for heating, cooling, and water heating-delivering 200 to 400 dollars in annual savings. Over the average 7 to 8 years the average person lives in their home, the savings can add up to thousands of dollars of lowered utility bills and maintenance. These savings can be substantial.

In addition to using less energy to operate, energy-efficient heating and cooling systems can be quieter, reduce indoor humidity, and improve the overall comfort of the home. Energy efficiency also adds value when it comes time to sell the property. By installing energy efficient products, you can be confident that your home will have the increasingly valued features buyers are searching for.

Energy efficiency is a very complex, necessary and emerging societal implementation. Trust an energy expert who is trained in energy audits to help transform your house into energy-efficient dream home. Green Energy Audit Certification, Inc. is a Building Performance Institute Affiliate and is approved to instruct and test candidates for certification in BPI’s Building Performance Advantage Curriculum. They train, educate, and certify professionals in energy efficiency to provide you with the best service possible.

Brigette Botkin. http://www.txgreenenergyaudits.com - Looking for training to become an Austin energy Auditor? Contact TXgreenenergyaudits.com for more information!

Rating: