How Can I Make My Home More Energy Efficient?

Making your home energy efficient is something every homeowner should do, and not only in the winter months.

According to the US Department of Energy, drafts from underneath doors and other spaces in the walls can waste 5 to 30 percent of energy use per year. Below, are 6 tips on how to make your home more energy efficient and save money in the process:

1. Use a programmable thermostat. Lowering the heat on the thermostat when your out of the house or sleeping can be the most cost-effective way to make your home more energy efficient. Programable thermostats make this easy, since you can see the temperature to a degree; for every degree you lower the thermostat, you’ll on average save between 1 and 3 percent of your heating bill (and the same applies for air conditioning).
2. Caulk where caulk is needed. Even small leaks, cracks, or gaps can reduce a home's energy efficiency. It is important to seal up any gaps by caulking and weatherstripping. These gaps are commonly found where two different building materials meet, such as corners, around chimneys, where pipes or wires exit, and along the foundation. Also, caulk window and door frames to make sure they are airtight.
3. Upgrade or replace windows and doors. One of the most effective ways to save on your home utility bills and increase energy efficiency is to have the proper windows installed in all the rooms of your house. Experts in window installation San Diego agree that the initial cost of installation is more than paid for by the money saved. According to EnergyStar.gov, replacing single pane windows with energy efficient windows will save 7 to 24 percent of your heating and air-conditioning bills and between $126 to $465 annually. In addition to windows, installing storm doors can seal drafts and reduce air flow. Replacing a regular doorr with an energy efficient storm door can help increasing energy efficiency by 45 percent.
4. Improve insulation. Over 40 percent of the heat lost in the average home is through loft space and walls, and as much as 20 percent of your energy bill can be saved by good loft insulation. Adding insulation to walls, ceilings, and the attic can greatly improve your homes energy efficiency.
5. Upgrade or replace light bulbs. Replacing incandescent lightbulbs with energy saving bulbs, also called compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs), can save three-quarters of the electricity used by incandescents. Although they cost a few dollars more, the money saved in electricity costs make them a well-worth it purchase. And of course, turn off lights (and other equipment) when not in use. High utility costs often include paying for energy that is completely wasted.
6. Take advantage of tax incentives for home. In energy efficient San Diego, homeowners get tax for credits up to 30 percent for their solar panel installations. But California isn't the only state that gives tax incentives for home improvements. Energy efficiency rebates and tax incentives are available to all US homeowners to offset the costs of home improvements.

Following the above tips is a simple way make your home more energy efficient. And not only will your home save a lot of energy, your family will also save money thanks to reduced utility bills.

In 2013 California To Stil Lead Solar Race

California is in the lead for solar panel installation, but New Jersey is a close second – and getting closer. New Jersey has intended for increased solar photovoltaic growth within the coming year. 

A key part of the state’s plan to rebuild after Hurricane Sandy is for many home owners and housing developments will be installing back-up solar generation, either grid-tied or off-grid, which can provide power during future major outages. Despite the close race, California is projected to lead the solar race again in 2013. 

Similar to California, New Jersey has launched their own initiatives to deploy solar photovoltaic systems and to diversify their energy portfolio. According to the Solar Energy Industries Association, in the second quarter of 2012, California again led the nation in installed solar capacity, with a total of 217 MW, while New Jersey had 103 MW.

Although New Jersey is making solar strides in the right direction, according to new research from Santa Clara, California-based NPD Solarbuzz, CA is projected to keep its position at number one in 2013, much thanks to its combination of policy initiatives. In 2012, energy efficient San Diego was named the country's top solar city, and the city is not ready to lose that title anytime soon.

California has one of the most ambitious Renewable Portfolio Standard (RPS) requirements goals in the nation: It requires both public and investor-owned utilities to procure 33 percent of all electricity delivered to retail customers from renewable sources by 2020.

California’s Go Solar California Campaign contains several policy initiatives to help the state become more solar friendly. The California Solar Initiative (CSI), for example, is the largest rate-payer-funded solar rebate program in the US. It serves homeowners who are customers of investor-owned utilities, and has supported California’s baseline market demand for solar panels.

The New Solar Homes Partnership provides financial incentives and other support to builders of new, energy efficient solar homes. This, together with the CSI and the several other rebate programs offered through the dozens of publicly owned utilities in the state are key components of the Go Solar California initiative.

The CSI offers San Diego solar customers different incentive levels based on the performance of their solar panels, including such factors as installation angle, tilt, and location rather than system capacity alone. This performance framework ensures that California is generating clean solar energy and rewarding systems that can provide maximum solar generation.