7 Homeowner Tips for Earth Day
-7 Homeowner Tips for Earth Day-
We’re joining countries around the world to celebrate Earth Day on April 22. This year’s Earth Day centers on nature’s gifts to our planet and the protection of Earth’s millions of species.
As homeowners, many of us recycle, shut the lights off upon leaving a room, unplug electronics that are not in use, and restrict lawn watering. Our efforts, however, don’t have to stop there. You may start increasing your efficiency by checking with your utility company regarding money-saving energy solutions. For example, Tampa Electric Company’s website offers tips and rebates for homeowners at www.tampaelectric.com/save.
Go Green for Energy Efficiency
Homeowners across the Greater Tampa Bay Area, from as far north as Wesley Chapel, down south to Riverview, and everywhere in between, may use these tips to create more energy-efficient homes, while reducing emissions and pollutants in our environment.
- Green Design: Choose energy-efficient construction materials during remodels and building projects. Recycled supplies and materials with reduced greenhouse gas emissions are great options to increase efficiency and protect the planet.
- Natural Light: Decrease your dependency on lightbulbs and electricity by installing skylights or arranging furniture to optimize sunlight.
- Solar Power: In Florida and around the Greater Tampa Bay area, rooftop solar panels and solar-energy systems are a great option to help generate electricity in a home.
- Landscaping: To block Florida’s hot sun, add outdoor plants to shield windows from excess heat. Plant trees in certain proximities from your home so they grow into a natural canopy shielding your home.
- Efficient AC: Choose washers, dryers, refrigerators, dishwashers, and other appliances rated energy-efficient according to government standards. Also, if your HVAC system is 10 to 15+ years old, consider upgrading to an energy-efficient system.
- Protective Insulation: Contact a contractor or insulation expert for an estimate on insulating your attic and other areas of your home. A barrier could block you from wasting energy.
- Airtight Windows: You could be throwing dollars out the window if your windows and doors or not properly sealed. Updated windows could help you lower electricity costs, and you may get cash-rebates from your electric company depending on the quality of windows you purchase, such a hurricane and impact resistant windows.
Happy Earth Day 2019! As full-service real estate professionals, we enjoy helping home sellers and home buyers in all matters of the home. Contact Dick and Karla Nielsen today at 813-294-5786 for helpful information and real estate advice for selling, buying, and investing in properties throughout Florida.
