10 Energy Saving Tips to Realize your Maximum Savings Potential

• 1. Replenish your attic insulation. Most homeowners don't realize that "pink panther material" was never intended to last the life of the house. To be effective at all it should be replenished every 5-7 years. Average size home cost: $1500.00 Ask us about an option.
• 2. Solar water-heating systems-cut your overall utility by 10-15%. Cost: $4,000
• 3. Upgrade your AC. Replace a pre-2005 system and save 10%, Replace a 1992 or older system and save 15% on your utility bill. Installation: $3,000-$6,000.
• 4. Install a new furnace. Any furnace installed before 1993 burn only 50-60% of their fuel. Upgrading to a super energy efficient system will cut your heating bill by a 1/3. Cost about $3,500.
• 5. Replace that washing machine. An Energy Star machine will pay for itself in 5 years saving you $110-$130 a year in water and electricity.
• 6. Plant trees. A few 25-foot sun-blocking trees on the south and sides of your home can reduce your cooling costs by 25%.
• 7. Insulate your water heater. If your unit is more than 10 years old, a $50 insulating jacket can reduce your utility bill by 9%. Higher R-value jackets also available.
• 8. Automate and Update your lighting. Occupancy sensors and CFLS light bulbs require only about 20% of the energy and can save you $150-$200 worth of electricity a year.
• 9. Install ceiling and attic fans. Ceiling fans improve cool and warm air mixing and the new solar attic fans are cheap, easy to install and cool that attic down in those hot summer days saving you a minimum of $100-$125 a year.
• 10. Run an energy audit and schedule an annual HVAC tune up. It will be very enlightening and could save you BIG MONEY! Cost: $200-$300.