Frequently Asked Questions
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Here are some frequently asked questions on ways to conserve energy and what you can do to build energy independence and security at home.
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Isn't conserving energy highly technical?
Definitely not, you don't have to be an expert in alternative forms of
energy or hybrid vehicles. You do have to want to save money and
secure your family. Energy Conservation can be as simple as changing
your lightbulbs to compact fluorescents or caulking and
weatherstripping around your windows and doors. There are many easy
energy saving tips to implement at home.
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| Are the curly lightbulbs worth the trouble to install?
Yes, compact fluorescent (CFL,s) while a little more expensive to buy
are very energy smart. They save on average 75% of electrical usage
over standard lightbulbs.
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I've heard that alternative energy vehicles aren't worth the extra cost to buy? Not true. The personal transportation choices a family makes can save them thousands of dollars annually. For instance, a hybrid or an electric vehicle burns less fossil fuel, saving the family money and cleaning the air. The gasoline savings alone will be an important wealth building activity.
What is ENERGY STAR? ENERGY STAR is a program of the Federal government that rates the efficiency of household energy users such as appliances, water tanks and electrical devices. Energy saving appliances in many cases cost no more to purchase than non-rated products and save a great deal in operating cost. Always look for the ENERGY STAR label.
Where can I get a list of energy saving tips? The new EnergyBright book "Energy Savings For The Novice" is full of energy saving tips that can be easily completed by the homeowner. The book also contains a list of many references for further information.
What is an on-demand water heater? An on-demand, or tankless, water heater makes hot water only when needed. This eliminates the necessity for a water storage tank, which allows you to save energy at home. The use of an on-demand water heater can save the homeowner an average from 10 to 30% on water heating costs.
What is geothermal heating? A geothermal heating system is one of the most important ways to conserve energy at home. It extracts heat from the earth and brings it inside to heat your home. In the summer the system is reversed to take heat from inside your home and discharge it in the ground. Geothermal heating/cooling systems can save 30-60% on home energy use.
What is alternative energy? Alternative forms of energy are loosely described as energy we haven't traditionally used, such as: wind, solar, geothermal, biomass and fuel cell. Collectively, these energy forms hold great potential to help our country.
Do caulking and sealing a home make much difference? One of the quickest dollar-saving tasks you can do is caulk, seal and weatherstrip all seams, cracks and openings to the outside. You can save as much as 10% on your heating and cooling bill by reducing air leaks and pay for improvements in less than one year.
What do I need to know before buying new windows for my house? Today's energy efficient windows are much better than those of 20 years ago. Most reputable window companies incorporate the newest technology in their products. At a minimum you'll want double-paned windows with ½ " space between the panes, low-E coating, and tinted glass if on a southwest or west facing window opening.
What is the largest single source of energy savings for my family? The vehicle(s) your family drives are the most intensive and expensive use of energy for the household. The family should look at the transportation choices they have to determine if a high efficiency or alternative energy vehicles would work. Several thousand dollars can be saved annually by buying the right vehicle.
How can I be sure the energy my family needs will be there for us? The easiest way to secure your energy requirements is by finding ways to conserve energy at home. Ultimately, you might want to consider getting your energy from another source; solar, wind or geothermal, for instance. If you could produce your own energy you wouldn't have to rely on others.
How can I find out how energy efficient my home is? You need to contact a home energy rater to do an energy audit on your home. The Residential Energy Services Network (RESNET) is a non-profit organization that creates home energy rating standards and certifies contractors to do audits. Securing an audit of your home will save energy for your family.
How important is water conservation? Very important, water will become the limiting resource in many parts of the world in the future. Water has to be clean for human consumption and takes considerable energy to pump from the ground and to move to its point of use. If you conserve water at home our country will have more supply in the future.
Why don't businesses sponsor EnergyBright's energy conservation seminar for their employees? Many do. Thousands of businesses are learning they can save money by conserving energy. Many offer energy training for employees because they know employees with more money are happy employees, and reduce turnover. Some employers offer incentives to change workers behaviors like bonuses to employees who purchase alternative energy vehicles.
Is there a book available to show simple ways to save energy? Absolutely! "Energy Savings For The Novice" is a book co-written by authors Dennis Fijalkowski and Mary Steele, who both understand the many ways to save money at home. The book is written to give families simple ways to build family wealth and security through energy savings. You can purchase this book here.
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Solar Energy
Wind Energy
Geothermal Energy
Nuclear Energy
Other Sources
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Lighting
Heating
Cooling
Making Hot Water
Appliances
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Insulation
Windows
Doors
Thermostats
Ductwork
Caulking
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