The Green Column

I promised to write about the most successful ways to reduce energy costs without spending a lot of money.

Most people start thinking about expensive upgrades like a new air conditioning system or solar panels. But much more can be done for less cost if we start with the cheap fixes.

In most buildings the heating system uses the most energy. The insulation is designed to reduce this by keeping the temperature comfortable inside. But in many buildings this insulation is in bad shape. By finding and fixing the insulation and air leaks, the heating system won’t have to run as often.

Does your roof have R38 insulation (12” fiberglass)? Bringing your insulation up to this level will usually pay for itself. While your attic is being checked, look at the top of the walls where the wires and pipes come out. Is there sealant in those holes? If not, they need to be filled first. Fiberglass insulation will not stop air from leaking through these holes. You don’t want that dusty air coming down inside your house.

Other common air leaks are found where the plumbing goes through the floors (especially bathtubs), electrical boxes in exterior walls, and the bottom of the walls where they attach to the floor. Some experts use smoking incense to find air drafts. Others use more accurate thermal imaging photography to find hidden insulation leaks.

Next check the doors and windows. They work in three ways to save energy. When closed they should be air tight. They should also be designed to prevent heat from conducting through the window or door materials. Aluminum windows for example can transmit a lot of heat right through the metal frame. Finally, windows should reflect the heat from sunlight. If your windows and doors perform badly, it might pay to borrow money and have them replaced. Your energy savings might be enough to pay the loan. An energy rater can test your home, and give you an expert opinion on this.

Next look at the heating and air conditioning system. Is the filter clean? Is the ductwork airtight? Fixing problems like these will pay off quickly. How old is the unit? What is the efficiency rating? An energy rater can inspect, test, and calculate the best ways to save energy. An HVAC contractor can tune up the unit for optimal efficiency.

Water heaters with thin fiberglass insulation waste a lot of energy. If your heater is gas, a tankless water heater might be best. If it is electric, a newer foam insulated tank water heater might be the most efficient for the cost. (They keep the water hot for weeks after being shut off). A solar water heater system should also be considered.

Next look into more efficient lighting and appliances. All of these changes can greatly reduce energy consumption in your home or building.

In the next column I will write about other ways to save energy costs when building or remodeling. Richard C. MacCrea is the director of The Greening of Andrews Valley, a program of Andrews Valley Initiative. He works in the field of energy efficient, green building.