What is Energy Efficiency?

Energy efficiency refers to products or systems that use less energy to do the same or better job than conventional products or systems. Some examples:

• Energy efficient homes (those rated as Energy Stars) typically are 30% more energy efficient than non-energy efficient homes (those built to code).
• Energy efficient cars (hybrids or diesels) can be 30 to 50% more efficient than comparable cars.
• Energy efficient lighting (compact fluorescent or LED) can be 300 to 400% more efficient than standard incandescent lighting.

Why should we build for Energy Efficiency or use Energy Efficient products?

The average household spends $1,500 a year on energy bills. By purchasing Energy Star products you can save over 30% annually or over $450! Energy efficiency saves energy, saves money on utility bills, and helps protect the environment by reducing the amount of energy that needs to be generated and the pollution that typically accompanies that generation.

How can you be more Energy Efficient?

Although there are literally hundreds of ways to live a more energy efficient life, we have picked 5 steps you can follow for a more energy efficient car and five steps for a more energy efficient home.

Five Steps For A More Energy Efficient Car:

1. Drive Smart. Go easy on the brakes and gas pedal, avoid hard accelerations, reduce time spent idling and unload the junk in your trunk.
2. Keep your car well tuned. A well-maintained car is more fuel efficient, more reliable and safer!
3. Check tire pressure regularly. Under inflation causes increased wear and decreased gas mileage.
4. Give your car a break. Try to combine activities into a single trip; use mass transit; walk or bike whenever possible.
5. When buying a new vehicle, make a smart choice. Look for the Air Pollution and Greenhouse Gas Scores at EPA's Green Vehicle Guide.

Five Steps For A More Energy Efficient Home:

1. Replace your 5 most frequently used lights or the bulbs in them with ones that have earned the ENERGY STAR.
2. The next time you go to make a purchase, look for ENERGY STAR Products. Available in more than 40 product categories, including lighting and home appliances.
3. Have your heating and cooling equipment serviced annually and remember to replace air filters. regularly. Use a programmable thermostat, and when it's time to replace old equipment, choose an ENERGY STAR qualified model.
4. Seal air leaks, add insulation and choose ENERGY STAR qualified windows.
5. Tell family and friends. Spread the word that energy efficiency is good for your home and good for our environment.

.

.