Posted by Joe Barnes on January 20th, 2010

Doug Lowe, of Artisan Construction, a member of the Bundoran Farm Guild is featured in Piedmont Environmental Council’s publication “Energy Smart Solutions”.  This publication and Doug Lowe’s on-line “how to videos” provide information on how to save 20% or more on your energy bills in 10 easy steps.

1.      Light Right – replace old incandescent bulbs with compact fluorescents

2.      Warm Water Well – put an insulating blanket on your water heater and install low-flow shower heads and faucet aerators

3.      Program Your Comfort – install programmable thermostats to better manage your heating and cooling

4.      Add A Blanket – upgrade your attic insulation by adding a layer of loose cellulose insulation

5.      Put A Hat On It – properly insulate your pull down attic door or hatch

6.      Defeat Drafts – Seal openings around windows and doors with caulk, spray foam and weatherstripping

7.      Go With The (Air) Flow – Change the filters in your heating and cooling system every 3 months

8.      Follow The Sun – Close southern and western facing blinds in the summer months and open them in the winter months to naturally heat your home

9.      Dial It Back A Notch – Change the settings on your appliances to save energy cost.  Wash clothes in warm or cold water and adjust refrigerator and freezer temps.

10.   Kill The Phantoms – Plug TVs, computers and other electronics or appliances into powerstrips you can turn off when not in use.

For more detail information about these smart and easy steps on how you can save energy, save money and help save our planet, visit www.energysmartsolutions.org.

Filed under: Education and Inspiration, Green Building