Before we design a solar or wind power system we perform an energy audit on the home or building to see how much power can be saved on a yearly basis. Even if you are not interested in an alternative energy source, we can offer some suggestions to reduce electricity consumption and improve energy efficiency.
There are many factors that are considered in an energy audit that affect your utility bills. The most simple changes are simple things, like the type of light bulbs you are using and how often they are used. By changing your light bulbs from incandescent to compact fluorescent or LEDs, you can cut your lighting load down 75%. Installing dimmers, timers, or occupancy sensors prevent lights from being left on when no one is in the room.
Phantom loads are another thing that most people don’t think about; such as clock radios, televisions and audio equipment. In a years time, these items can draw more than your electric oven because they are using power 24/7. Televisions and stereo equipment use almost as much power when they are off as when they are on. By putting electronics on a plug strip that can be turned off when not in use will greatly reduce your electric bills.
Water heaters can be a big electricity user also. Replacing your standard water heater with a tankless or a hybrid water heater with solar heat collectors could be a wise investment with a quick return and give you years of inexpensive hot water.
The energy efficiency of your HVAC system, type of windows, and amount of insulation you have are also big factors in the amount of energy your home or office uses. An energy audit can incorporate all of these factors to help you make the decision to conserve electricity through energy efficiency and save you money.
