Green Tips for September
Energy Conservation Around the House
As anyone living in the Bay Area knows, September is a month that is likely to have lots of weather variation. Some days you might want a heater on, others will necessitate cooling. With this in mind, the Green Team is dedicating this month’s Green Tips to focus on energy conservation. Follow these simple tips to reduce your energy bill, saving money and the environment in the process!
Heat or cool efficiently!
For heating spaces, consider a portable radiator-style electric office heater. They have a heating element contained in an oil-filled radiator, so they provide more consistent warmth than most other types of electric heaters and give off residual heat even after the unit is shut off. These heaters work by convection to warm the air and don’t have moving parts, so they’re quieter and break less often than other heaters that utilize fans. They take up little floor space, are 100% energy efficient, meaning all the power consumed is converted into heat, and create less dust without the use of a fan!
Heat and cool your house efficiently by utilizing the full space. If you have central heating/cooling, consider closing doors and windows to rooms that you’re not occupying to ensure that you’re using energy efficiently. Make sure to use your space effectively, so you’re not wasting money and energy heating unoccupied rooms.
Use natural or energy-efficient lighting!
Natural lighting does more than cut down on energy costs; it plays a big role in how a space looks and feels, whether it’s a home or a workplace. Being exposed to natural light during the day can have a positive impact on both mental and physical health. It helps regulate our internal clock, which affects sleep, mood, and energy levels. In work environments, this often leads to better focus, less fatigue, and higher productivity. At home, natural light creates a brighter, more inviting atmosphere that can lift your mood and support overall well-being. Another alternative is energy-efficient lighting such as LEDs. LEDs, or light-emitting diodes, are a modern, efficient way to produce light. An electrical current passes through a microchip, illuminating the tiny light source, which then produces visible light. LEDs are 90% more efficient than standard incandescent bulbs and offer several other advantages, including a longer lifespan, reduced heat output, and lower toxicity in the event of a breakage, unlike CFL bulbs. All of this combined means they are not only safer to use but also cost you less money overall!
Consider your window coverings!
Natural light adds warmth and energy to any space, and the right window coverings can enhance that without sacrificing privacy. Light-filtering shades, sheer curtains, and soft fabrics allow sunlight to brighten a room while reducing glare and maintaining comfort. There are many affordable options that offer stylish, budget-friendly ways to let the light in and create a bright, welcoming atmosphere.
Look for discounts on peak-hour pricing!
Did you know your energy services provider PG&E offers different rate plans? This will help you save money by using energy at off-peak times of the day. They offer a Time-of-Use plan, where rates vary by time of day, as well as a Tiered Rate Plan, where rates increase with higher usage. They can also provide Energy Usage Alerts, which allow you to set up alerts to track when you’re approaching high usage or tier limits. Use PG&E’s Rate Comparison Tool on their website to see if switching to a different plan could save you money.
You can get a Home Energy Checkup, which includes their free online tool that offers personalized tips. Lastly, they offer rebates and incentives for installing energy-efficient appliances, smart thermostats, and insulation. Click here for more information about Rebates and Savings.