As summer temperatures rise and school holidays begin, many people are spending more time outdoors. Consequently, the use of air conditioning and fans to cool down has also increased. However, there are additional methods to reduce indoor temperatures and lower energy bills.
Strategically designed landscaping can significantly impact household energy consumption. On average, a well-planned landscape can provide enough savings to recoup the initial investment within eight years.
The Department of Energy suggests that planting trees in optimal locations can save up to 25% of household energy consumption, translating to $100-$250 in annual savings. Trees can also reduce surrounding air temperatures by as much as six degrees. Deciduous trees are particularly effective; they offer shade during summer with their leaves and allow sunlight through in winter after shedding leaves. Planting these trees on the south side of a home shades the roof, while positioning them on the west side blocks late afternoon sun.
Other plants such as shrubs, bushes, and groundcover also contribute by reducing heat radiation and cooling the air before it reaches a home. Trellises or lattices can be used for shading walls along homes and patios.
Shading air conditioning units improves efficiency by at least 10%. It is essential to keep plants at least three feet away from units and ensure they remain free of debris for proper airflow.
Additional tips for maintaining an energy-efficient yard include checking irrigation systems for leaks, which can waste significant amounts of water if left unchecked. Watering should be done during cooler parts of the day only when necessary.
Switching to LED lighting for outdoor spaces instead of traditional bulbs is another cost-saving measure. Using photoelectric controls or timers ensures lights are off during daylight hours.
For pool owners, investing in an efficient pool pump could result in substantial savings. ENERGY STAR® certified pumps use 18% less energy than standard models and can save over $300 throughout their lifespan.
For further tips on saving energy year-round, visit www.firstenergycorp.com/saveenergy.
Contact: Brooke Conlan, 330-807-7564
