Category Archives: Energy Efficiency

The Impact of Clogged Air Filters On HVAC Energy Consumption

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As soon as the chill begins to set in with fall, the need for indoor heating starts to push electricity bills up significantly with each passing month. This continues until winter finally arrives and skyrockets electricity bills to ridiculous amounts. This is pretty much what happens in summer too if you happen to live in Texas, Florida or any of the other hot states.

In both situations though, it’s the HVAC system that consumes all the energy, which is not exactly unexpected. What most of us don’t realize is that it’s most likely those clogged air filters that are making the HVAC waste more energy than it should need. Let’s talk about the impact of clogged air filters on HVAC energy consumption

How Do Clogged Filters Affect Your HVAC System?

Before we can discuss how clogged filters affect electricity bills, it is important to understand how clogged filters affect HVAC units in the first place.

The role of an air filter is simple enough; it stops as much of the air impurities as possible from entering and circulating in the indoor environment. After a while, all that dirt, dust, debris, etc., that the filter prevented from getting in begins to congeal together, slowly closing off the airways.

Once the accumulated gunk becomes heavy enough, the HVAC system has to work extra hard to push air past these narrow airways. This is where the problem lies, as a number of negative effects from the increased exertion and dirty filters are seen.

The Effects of Extra Load on HVAC Units

Given that an HVAC system isn’t equipped to handle all that extra load on a regular basis, a number of negative impacts are seen as a result of clogged air filters.

  • The unit begins to consume more power, to be able to push air past the dirty air filters
  • The increased power consumption becomes evident, as energy bills surge in direct proportion
  • Excess load decreases the potential lifetime of an HVAC unit
  • The heat exchange mechanism can overheat and short-circuit
  • The cooling coil may freeze in absence of sufficient airflow for dissipating condensation during summer
  • Breakdowns become more common, further adding to the maintenance expenses
  • Both the heating and cooling capacities of the unit suffers; slower and less effective heating/cooling
  • Since the air is pushed through the gunk with force, it circulates all the dispersed pollutants throughout the house

How to Know When Your HVAC System Needs a Filter Change?

Some of the signs are pretty obvious, but you should act before they become too obvious and your unit breaks down in the middle of January! It can get a little costly to change air filters on a regular basis for sure, so try to get them from discountfilterstore.com.

Go through the following and it should provide a decent guide towards detecting the need for a HVAC filter change before the problems get too serious.

  • It has been more than three months since your last filter change
  • The filters are starting to look grey or develop spots
  • Increase in indoor dust accumulation
  • Increase in allergic reactions such as sneezing, skin rashes, etc.
  • Heating/cooling seems to be taking a lot longer than expected
  • Heating/cooling isn’t as effective as before

Air filters serve the vital function of keeping the indoor environment fresh and healthy for everyone, but those same filters can also become the cause for health and financial problems unless they are changed in time. As long as you keep track of the change cycle though, none of what we discussed should be a cause for concern.

Benefits of Wide Access Doors for Green Buildings

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Are you considering green technology or green buildings? If you plan to incorporate designs that will help the environment, you should consider wide access doors in your planning! There are various ways to increase the energy efficiency of your commercial buildings to decrease damage to the environment. As the years progress, experts continue to create practical solutions to global warming, and they start with commercial buildings known to be one of the highest contributors to greenhouse gases in the world.

wide access doors for commercial buildings

Know More About Green Design

Green design is a term for sustainable architecture and structural designs. It incorporates simple yet helpful materials, designs, and technologies to minimize the effects of the building on the environment. It is still a progressing technique that not all commercial buildings are using, but to those that are, it is already a significant contribution to the environment.

Role of Wide Access Doors in Green Buildings

You might now be wondering what role doorways play in green buildings. It may not seem much, but if you want to attain that green building title and certification from LEED, you must consider everything, including the doors and hardware.

While you might not consider doors and other hardware as top contributors to the expenses of constructing a building, these components have a higher impact on lessening the energy consumption of your commercial building and improving the overall thermal performance.

Purpose of an Access Door

To understand how wide access doors contribute to green buildings, you must first understand the many uses of access doors. They can vary depending on their type and size, but the primary purpose of an access door is to conceal and protect essential components in a building. When it comes to commercial buildings, you can think of plumbing systems, HVAC systems, and even central wiring.

In hospitals, the purpose of access doors is not limited to concealment but also insulation, proper pressure control, and airflow control from one room to another. Knowing the different goals of access doors can help you determine what type of access door can be more useful to you and your green design. By choosing to install a wide access door, you are not only increasing accessibility but also convenience.

Why It Helps in Green Buildings

Depending on the material of your wide access door, you can help minimize its negative environmental impact. Bigger and broader access doors are not only for convenience, but they are also for safety. For example, if you choose to install oversized fire-rated access doors, it will increase protection during a fire and ensure that there would be no blockage when people access it to escape. These wide doors also come with insulation of their own, lessening the energy consumption of the building. Know more about the benefits of wide access doors below:

Wide Access Doors in Green Buildings

1. Insulation

Access doors can come with their insulation if you choose it. Access doors are often a requirement in most commercial buildings. Having one not only adheres to building codes but can also contribute to the energy efficiency of your structure. An access door can ensure that the air outside does not seep into the building and vice versa. It does not only contribute to energy efficiency and thermal control, but it also ensures the concealment of your building’s essential components.

2. Convenience and Accessibility

Another thing you can benefit from an access door that has its insulation is the convenience and accessibility it gives you. Compared to an ordinary door that does not come with insulation, the properties and features of an access door are worth the cost because of the additional benefits.

You do not have to create significant changes regarding green design immediately. Sometimes, starting with the small things like your doors and windows can help with the overall green rating of your building. Green building is still a progressing idea that not everyone can immediately follow. If you have the means, starting small can already create an impact.

The Benefits of Green Building

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Each year, we see the effects of global warming drastically increase. The World Meteorological Organization reported that in the last 50 years, the number of climate-change-driven weather calamities increased by five. With this information coming to light, we must act now to prevent these disasters from worsening.

One simple step is to integrate sustainable practices into your establishment. While this may seem like an expensive proposition at first glance, did you know that going green also benefits your bottom line?

In this article, you’ll see a few benefits of green buildings:

advantages of green buildings

1. Healthier Environment

Unsurprisingly, we spend a large portion of our time indoors when working in an office. In these cases, you may experience exposure to several air pollutants, such as mold, volatile organic compounds from air fresheners, and even secondhand smoke from cigarettes. Regular contact with these air pollutants poses a significant health concern leading to decreased performance and absenteeism.

Introducing steps to improve indoor air quality to combat these health risks is essential. One source of air pollutants is mold growth due to moisture build-up in areas such as behind walls. One of the ways you can reduce mold growth in these areas is to have gasketed access doors like those from Elmdor Access Doors and Panels.

Harvard also studied how effective green buildings are at improving cognitive functions. The result was that workers had a 61 percent higher performance when in green building conditions. You can trust that you and your officemates will make more intelligent decisions when breathing cleaner air.

Economic Benefits

You may have seen the words “LEED certification” thrown around the industry in the past few years. For a bit of context, LEED Certification is one of the best frameworks to follow if you want an environmentally conscious building. Compared to traditional buildings, LEED Certified buildings are proven to use less energy, less water, and lower overall operational costs. Lower operating expenses and utility bills ensure you can focus on growing your business to become a leader in the industry.

With lower maintenance costs and massive health benefits, you could enjoy a 6.6% increase in property asset valuation by going green. Additionally, laws have been getting stricter over the past years as we get closer to the 2030 sustainable development goal. Slowly introducing eco-friendly features to your building today can save thousands in fines and expensive overhauls in the future.

Better Infrastructure

With concrete being our primary building material of choice, it’s no surprise that the market for one of the most versatile construction materials has also grown. This demand comes at the cost of our environment, though, as cement is the third-highest producer of carbon dioxide. Because of this, you need to start thinking of ways to incorporate sustainability in your next construction project.

solar-leasing

What if there was some way to use other materials in concrete? You’ll be glad to know that some companies have already begun offering such products. From using Fly Ash (found in coal-fired powerplants) to capturing the carbon dioxide from the air directly, it’ll be easy to find low-carbon concrete for you to use.

You’ll be glad to know that it won’t just be the environment that’ll benefit from using low-carbon concrete. For example, concrete that utilizes fly ash in its mixture has high compressive strength and better sulfate resistance. You aren’t just using concrete that can bear heavier loads; you’re also set to enjoy it for longer than traditional Portland cement.

It Takes All Of Us

Hopefully, these points have convinced you of the potential benefits of having a sustainable building. Clean air and clear skies don’t need to only exist in far-away lands. You can also enjoy them in your city as soon as we have done our part in having an eco-friendly society.

We get the better living environment we want through concerted and unified efforts towards this goal, and it all starts with your choice in taking the first step.

8 Ways To Make Your Property More Energy Efficient

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There are many ways to make your property more energy efficient regardless of your budget. If you have more money to spend, then you can invest in some renovation work that will help you to reduce energy expenses. However, suppose your budget is on the lower side. In that case, you can purchase some features that are small and inexpensive but can have a massive impact on your final bill. But keep in mind that you should carry out extensive research for each energy-saving solution you would like to try. That will help you to determine what your final savings will be and which solutions are not ideal for your property.

How To Make Your Property More Energy Efficient

1. Get A Quality Roof That Will Keep All The Heat Inside

A quality roof is a key to every safe and energy-efficient property. Companies such as ClearAmber Shop offer roofing sheets made of various materials, such as corrugated roofing sheets or plastic roof sheets that will help you to keep all the heat inside the building. As a result, there will not be any heat leaking outside, and you will stop cold air from flowing inside.

Like this, heating will need a shorter time to make the interior warm, and you will use much less gas or electricity, depending on the radiators you have. Cutting down your gas and electricity usage will make the building more efficient and lower your energy bills at the same time.

2. Close Off Any Gaps In The Construction

Filling any gaps in your construction, also called draught proofing, will stop any cold air from flowing into the building. You can find these gaps anywhere around windows, doors, exposed piping, fittings, floorboards or loft hatches. You should also pay attention to any cracks in the walls. However, there are several easy ways how you can fix the issue. You can use silicone sealant to hold water away. Or there are other options such as self-adhesive foam strips, flexible fillers or shaped rubber or plastic.

For any larger gaps, you should consider trying expanding polyurethane foam which expands while drying and then sets hard. This way, you will be able to have the heating on for a shorter time during the colder months and save on energy expenses.

3. Use Smart Meter To Stay On Track With Your Electricity Usage

Having a smart meter will allow you to see how much electricity you use in real-time. This way, you will be able to identify your weaknesses. From there, you can plan what you will do to make your home more energy efficient. The smart meter will also allow you to set a timer for your heating. This way, the heating will be on only for a specific part of the day.

Energy-Saving Tips for Small Businesses

During the colder months, it can be tempting to leave the heating on for a bit longer. However, if you push turning the heating off further and further, you will need to pay more than you would like to. The timer will help you to make sure that you do not have your heating on for too long. Regulating the time will allow you to control your energy usage, and you will save money on your bills.

4. Wall Insulation Can Help You Cut Your Energy Bills In The Long Run

Wall insulation can be a costly procedure. However, it will become a worthwhile investment in the long run. Of course, the overall price depends on whether you want to have cavity, internal or external wall insulation. Then, you need to take into account the size of the property, as each type of wall insulation has a different price per square meter.

Each insulation has a different process and finish. However, they all have one purpose in common. They help you to ensure that there is no heat escaping through the walls and keep your energy usage balanced. This way, your building will be more energy efficient and will allow you to save the expenses on the bills every year.

5. Keep Your Home Warm With Floor Insulation

Just like with walls, many homes have problems with heat escaping from the room through the floor. There are different kinds of floor insulation, and you need to know which floor you have in order to pick the right solution for your property. You usually do not need to put floor insulation into rooms that are located upstairs.

But suppose a room is located above a space that is not heated, like, for example, a garage. In that case, you should consider floor insulation as a solution to make the building more energy efficient. You also need to remember that your building may have more than one type of flooring. Then, you will need to inquire about more kinds of floor insulation.

6. Consider If Solar Panels Are The Right Solution For You

It is no secret that solar panels are expensive and require a lot of space. However, if you have the financial means and enough space, then they will become one of the most effective features on your way to a more energy-efficient building. You should also carry out extensive research in order to find out if solar panels are a suitable solution for your building.

solar energy diy

If your research brings good news, then you will be able to generate your own renewable electricity. But there is one more obstacle that could ruin your plans for solar panel installation. If the building is in an area that is often covered in the shade, then it would not be the best investment for your property.

7. Include Energy Efficient Fittings In Your Property

Including energy-efficient fittings in your property can be a more affordable way to reduce your energy usage. For instance, you can place LED light bulbs throughout the property. Like this, you will save a significant amount of electricity, and they last up to 10 times longer than regular light bulbs. You can also invest in water-saving shower heads. These features regulate the amount of water you are using and can help you to cut down your expenses.

For the same purpose, you should consider purchasing low-flow taps that will help you to reduce the water usage in sinks. On top of that, you can also invest in low-flush toilets that will help you to regulate the flow of water even further. Such solutions can be affordable and easy to install. This way, you will reduce your energy usage significantly and stay within your budget.

8. Switch Off Devices When You Are Not Using Them

By switching off devices when you are not using them, you can save around £55 a year. In the long run, this can become a significant amount of money that you could use on some of the different needs of your property. You can turn the devices off at the plug. These days, most modern appliances are set in a way that will not upset their programming if turned off.

To make your job easier, you can also get a smart plug that will help you to turn off the devices all at once. Suppose you are not sure about any of your appliances and their settings. In that case, we recommend you check the manufacturer’s manual and follow the instructions.

The Bright Future of Solar Lighting

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Solar power is an appealing source of energy, considering that it is widely available and sustainable. However, only two percent of the world’s electricity is derived from solar as of 2018. In the past, the production of solar energy has been costly and fairly ineffective.

Good thing, new technological advancements over the past years have propelled this growing reliance on solar by lowering costs. Technological innovations also aim to expand the use of solar by further decreasing costs and improving the efficiency of solar panels.

The Importance of Solar Lights

Although there are many uses for solar power, solar lighting is one of the most prominent. Large electrical products need high energy levels to operate them. This means that it needs large solar panels to collect appropriate energy from the sun.

solar-lights-highway

On the other hand, solar street lighting do not require large sources of energy and can thus be operated off much smaller panels. They provide a higher level of functionality and flexibility since the solar panels can be integrated into the lighting system.

The magnificence of solar lighting is that you can use it often and virtually any time without any cost except for the initial purchase. Direct sunlight is not even required to charge the batteries.  With advanced technology, new models of solar lights can charge even on a cloudy day.

Solar lights are well designed for outdoor usage, removing the need for risky electrical wiring. Excellent placement means maximum charging and the light turns on as the sun sets. While more extensive circuitry is required, solar lighting can also be used for interior lighting.

The Future of Solar Lighting

It is always difficult to predict the future. But by observing current trends in energy usage, solar energy industry, and prospective scientific research, we can catch a peek of what solar lighting could mean for the future:

Materials

Most likely, the materials that go into solar panels will change. Cell phone manufacturers, smartphones, electric vehicles, and cordless power tools all rely on the same rare earth component array that solar panel makers do.

Worldwide stocks of these resources continue to decline. Due to this, scientists have warned companies producing high-tech gadgets to find alternatives (such as iron pyrite or zinc). Experts advise manufacturers to develop their metal recycling and recovery systems.

Cost

New designs will be developed to absorb more light and convert light energy more efficiently into electricity. Upcoming solar light models will also be less costly to build than existing designs to outperform current solar cells.

solar-steer-lights

Electricity producers and consumers are more likely to embrace solar power if it is as costly or more affordable than others. Any changes to current designs of solar cells should reduce overall costs to be widely accepted.

Silicon solar cells are likely to persist to fall in price and be manufactured in large numbers in the near future. Additionally, research will continue on alternative models for solar cells that are more powerful and less costly.

With the bulk production of solar cells and emerging technologies, these developments will continue to be made possible.

Solar Power Usage

As the fight against climate change is escalating, so will the demand for renewable energy sources. Solar power will play a significant role in combating global climate change.

Solar could also spread to developing countries in the form of microgrids. Microgrids are distributed installations of electricity generation that provide energy to a limited area like a town, community, or a neighborhood.

Solar microgrids are an effective way to electrify remote communities in Africa or Southeast Asia. It is most effective for developing nations where it is too costly for electricity companies to connect far-flung towns to the power network.

Transparent Solar Cells

This advanced form of solar cells is adequately transparent for many new applications. Researchers developed a model that includes organic salts that absorb enough UV and infrared light to turn solar radiation into energy

Picture this sort of solar cell on the screen of a smartphone or a car’s windshield. Ultimately, transparent solar cells are more appealing than the conventional dark-colored panels and have a wider range of uses.

Final Thoughts

The use of solar lighting dates back to a thousand years ago when man first discovered fire. However, it is also very much the present and will be a significant part of the future. Solar lighting is here to stay until the sun shines its last beam, and as technology advances, the developments can grow over and over again.

Convinced yet of the bright future of solar lighting? If so, look no further than www.heisolar.com. HEI is a global leader in providing highly efficient solar lighting products. The company offers a range of outdoor solar lighting solutions for your home, business, or property.

3 Things to Consider When Using Drum Heaters

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For people in the colder parts of the world, temperatures can become an issue. Sometimes, you might need to keep your liquids, water or fuel at the normal room temperature. The main use of drum heaters is that they work as storages that keep their content at a certain temperature.

Barrel heaters are especially needed if their content loses its nature and benefits due to a drop or a rise in the temperature. Barrel heater is a cheap solution for maintaining high energy without paying for its cost, in addition you are reducing the pollution since the energy is being recycled within the system. So, what do you need to consider when you are using drum heaters? That is what we are going to tackle.

1. Harsh weather

Harsh environmental conditions, especially the low temperature of the cold months, might push the need to use a heater for your drums to avoid causing them any damages to keep them in ultimate condition.

Buying good drum heater jackets will keep you away from breaking the bank just to save your desired content. They don’t only keep your drums at the required temperature, they also save and lower the viscosity of the fluids so you wouldn’t need to replace them as often and more importantly, they protect them from freezing in harsh cold environment conditions.

2. Energy saving

Electrical insulated heating jackets offer more protection from cold or freezing due to the extra layer of insulation they have. With heat loss kept at minimum, the heating jackets offer more energy saving options which make their power consumption drop automatically, this also translates to cost of operation drop. What’s even more positive about these jackets is that they are normally designed to cover the whole containers, thus you are more likely to be saved from any energy loss.

Using some types of barrel heaters that do not cover the whole drum might waste energy as they naturally get hot. Due to thermodynamics basics, the heat will start dissipating from the higher-temperature surface to the cold atmosphere. That is why when using the right type of heater for your needs, make sure that it will cover the whole container you have so you don’t waste any energy.

3. Saving space = saving energy

An extra step to save money and time is to place your drums in a closed space. Open spaces make it harder to maintain your drums at desired temperatures. Putting your drums and barrels in an enclosed space will ensure that no energy is wasted to the atmosphere and manage heat escape.

Choose the one that works best for you

When you are first buying the heater, it is always a good step to buy one that is flexible. Drum heaters are really simple on the design side, however, using one that does not fit may create more of a problem than it solves. Buying a good drum heater that is adjustable or can fit any type of container you have, is always a smart idea to save you from the headache and wasting your money.

5 Points to Consider Before Switching Electric Suppliers

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There are several reasons why homeowners want to switch electric suppliers. Some might feel like they’re paying more for their electricity, and they want to find something that will cost them less. Others might be moving to a new home or looking for renewable energy alternatives and more reliable service.

Whatever the reason may be, homeowners are now more able to explore and acquire the energy plan that suits their needs and resources. They can change their electricity providers anytime they want. But with numerous options in the market, it can be easy to feel lost and make a snap decision.

Before you get thrilled about cheaper energy tariffs and better customer service, here are essential points to consider before switching electric suppliers. It may save you a load of potential hassle and stress, especially if it’s your first time to do so.

electric-suppliers

1. Determine Your Needs and Preference

The first thing that you should think about when changing your electric supplier is your needs and preference. This way, you’d be able to point out specific reasons why your current provider is not right for you anymore.

You can ask yourself a few questions to sort what you need and prefer so you can come up with a more informed decision. Does your bill vary from month to month, or are you searching for a plan that your budget can comfortably afford more? Do you want to reduce your carbon footprint, or are you looking for better customer support?

Once you’ve identified the things you need and want that you didn’t get from your current supplier, it would be easier for you to choose a much better one. Take your time to ponder about them before you rush into the market.

2. Check Your Current Electric Bills

It’s also significant to look at your current electric bills, especially if your concern is a high and fluctuating statement every month. Before you review other supplier’s prices, it would be helpful to examine a recent electric bill from your current supplier. Evaluate how much you’ve been paying for your electricity.

By checking the costs that constitute your monthly electric bill, you’d be able to know whether the problem is on the consumption or with the rate. It would also prepare you to choose a new electric supplier that will surely meet your needs.

electricity-cost

3. Research Your Options

Of course, doing some research before changing suppliers is essential. You can start an electric consumption comparison on Eligo Energy. When you do so, it will help best in finding better electric rates. When researching your options, you can break down the factors you want to look for in your new electric supplier.

Here are a few things you may not want to miss out on:

a. Price and Plan

Rates may vary in every supplier, and they are often linked to the unpredictable energy market. You must consider what kind of supply rate would work best for your home’s monthly budget before shopping for any electricity plans.

Opting for a fixed-rate plan might be a good idea if your concern is about fluctuations. But if you use most of your energy at night, you can look for a company that offers time-of-use plans. Note that each project comes with a cost, so it mostly depends on how much you’re willing to pay.

b. Products and Services

Suppliers provide many different types of products and services. It’s a must to check out what each company offers to assess better which one would best serve your needs.

Some companies use renewable energy resources, while others do not. If it’s something important to you, you can cross out from your options to those who don’t offer it.

c. Reputation

Many suppliers are using marketing tactics to capture your attention. Don’t get tempted by cheap rates that have hidden fees in the end. Be sure to switch to a company that has an established reputation. Check on their background before you sign up by looking at the reviews of previous customers.

4. Compare Offers

When looking for the best deal, you would have to compare offers from different providers. If you want to find out how much you could save, compare their electricity rates. However, consider all the other factors as well. Bear in mind that the lowest price isn’t always the best deal.

5. Review Your Current Contract

It is a must to review your contract with your current supplier. Take a look at the terms if there are charges if you leave your contract early. Make sure to ponder whether it would be worthwhile to change your electricity provider right away if there are any exit fees. You won’t have to worry about it, though, if you have an open contract.

Takeaway

It’s so tempting to dive into any electric supplier with cheaper rates and better offers than your current one. But doing so may cause you tons of money and regrets in the end. You would not want to experience the same frustration again. Therefore, take the time to research and weigh all your options before you sign up for anything.

Why You Should Install Solar Panels on Your Property

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Many people are now realizing the importance of using solar energy. Remember that solar energy has now become more common in renewable energy. Most homeowners are installing solar panels on their roofs so that they can benefit from solar energy. Both business owners and homeowners can take advantage of solar energy. Besides the obvious financial benefits, there are also various good reasons why it makes sense to use solar energy rather than fossil fuels. This post explains why you should install solar panels on your property.

beginners guide to renewable energy

Reduce energy bills

Regardless of where you live, there is always enough amount of sun that can power your home at net zero energy consumption. You can generate a lot more solar energy on warm spring days. Even better, on hot summer days, you can generate solar energy that can be enough to run your air conditioning system.

Even if you live in an area that is usually cloudy, you can still receive a couple of hours of sunlight each day. On the other hand, sunny areas can get at least 5.5 hours of sunlight each day. While sunny days can help to generate more solar energy, solar panels can keep on getting energy from the sun when it’s cloudy. Diffused or indirect sunlight can still assist to power your building. It’s worth mentioning that cloudy days can generate between 10 and 20 percent of the energy produced on sunny days. If you decide to install solar panels, you can visit 4 Solar Estimates for help.

You can start saving right away

You can spend a lot of money on your energy bills. Solar energy can lower or even eliminate these energy costs once you install the solar panels. Besides, they also give you long-term savings because it’s free to get power from the sun.

Also, solar panels can significantly increase the resale value of your property. Most home buyers understand the importance of having solar panels, especially when they don’t need to make any investment and installation. Solar panels can also extend the lifespan of your roof because they tend to protect it from the elements like snow, debris, and rain. Above all, they can make your home more energy-efficient during the summer since the sun doesn’t hit directly on your roof. Instead, the solar panels absorb the sun to keep your home’s temperature lower.

pros and cons of solar PV

Help the environment

Solar panels can get pure and clean energy from the sum. Therefore, you need to install panels so that your home can help fight greenhouse gas emissions and lower your dependence on fossil fuels. Electricity is usually produced from fossil fuels like natural gas and coal. When they burn fossil fuels to generate electricity, they produce harmful gasses that are the leading cause of air pollution.

Fossil fuels are not good for the environment, and they are also finite resources. Renewable energy can improve your health. On the other hand, natural gas and coal plants lead to water and air pollution that can harm you. Hence, you need to replace fossil fuels with solar energy.

Also Read: REC Solar Panels for Sustainable Home Energy

Why Eco Friendly Vehicles Are the Future of Transportation?

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There have been many revolutions in the engineering of passenger vehicles. First, in the late 1800’s came the automobile. Less than twenty years later, the first consumer car, the Model T was put into production. Over time, engineers kept improving cars and made them faster, safer, and better for the environment. Just a decade ago, cars that operate just as well as traditional fuel burning models began hitting markets around the globe. Every year these cars keep getting better, and it looks like they are the future of transportation.

The Green Transportation Revolution is sweeping across the United States, fundamentally reshaping the way we move. In this era of environmental consciousness, the shift towards sustainable mobility solutions has never been more evident. From the widespread adoption of electric vehicles, saving both the environment and your wallet from the burdens of high fuel costs, to the promising emergence of driverless cars poised to make our roads safer and more efficient than ever before, this article explores the exciting journey toward a greener future in transportation. Countries like Norway, Germany, and France have even proposed phasing out gas-powered vehicles altogether, demonstrating a global commitment to cleaner, more sustainable modes of transport. Discover the full story of this transportation revolution and how the USA is leading the way on escootersstores.

1. Green On the Streets and in Your Wallet

The appeal of an eco friendly vehicle is pretty obvious, when you take a look at how much money owners save on fuel costs. According to a report from Business Insider Americans in some states spend an average of over $1,300 per year on fuel alone. If you are the victim of a car accident, contact Philadelphia Injury Lawyers P.C. for a free consultation!

Internationally, many countries such as Canada have introduced extra taxes on fuel inefficient vehicles. Some countries, including Norway, Germany, and France have all proposed banning the sale of new gas powered vehicles. It seems that many countries see the harm that burning fuel causes to the environment, and are willing to push consumers to more efficient and clean transportation options, such as gas or electric powered cars. The use of these as power sources has garnered criticism as to whether or not natural gas is a reliable renewable resource, but natural gas been proven to be just as renewable and green as electric hybrids of today.

Studies have proven that “greener” vehicles do not just save consumers in taxes and fuel though. Electric cars can save owners quite a bit of money over time in maintenance. Since electric vehicles tend to need less engine maintenance, the cost of repairs and upkeep drop drastically.

2. Safer Roads and Better Fuel Efficiency

Today the roads are full of electric cars. While they certainly are the future, every driver is surely interested in what comes next. With driverless cars increasingly entering highways around the world, it would seem that the future of efficiency is with automated driving.

According to an article in Forbes, driverless vehicles could reduce fuel consumption in passenger vehicles by as much as 44 percent and 18 percent for trucks. That is an enormous impact for the environment. This reduction is due in part to the amount of time the cars are in use. With driverless cars, commuters could share vehicles and each passenger vehicle would spend less time idle, depreciating in value and wasting resources.

Self driving cars are already incredibly safe, and that is in part because they are programmed to strictly follow all traffic laws. According to a CNN report 90% of traffic accidents are caused by human error. These accidents could be reduced by fuel efficient driverless vehicles.

3. Making Your Current Ride More Efficient

Not all of us can afford to pony up the cash for a new electric vehicle, but that does not mean you can’t be more environmentally friendly with your current car or truck. There are plenty of ways to help make your vehicle and commute efficient. One simple way to reduce your use of fossil fuels is to minimize trips and idle time. If you sit in a drive through or traffic regularly, turn off your vehicle. The Environmental Defense Fund suggests turning off your vehicle if you idle for more than 10 seconds at a time.

Performing maintenance at scheduled intervals also keeps your vehicle in great condition, which helps it stay at its peak efficiency. Replacing spark plugs, keeping clean air filters in your car, and airing up tires to the manufacturer’s specified pressure can all improve your vehicles overall performance.

Please keep in mind that it is recommended to contact a car accident lawyer if you are hurt in a car accident. Your lawyer will gather the evidence and deal with your insurance company to ensure that you get the maximum compensation you are entitled to.

Lastly, driving fast consumes more fuel. Following the speed limit and posted directions, avoiding fast braking and acceleration, and using cruise control on the highway can help save on gas.

7 Energy Efficiency Innovations That Can Help Homeowners

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Domestic energy efficiency has advanced a long way over the last few decades. Despite our overall energy consumption increasing by just over a third since 1980, on average our homes consume around 10% less overall. How can this be the case when we have so many more electrical appliances? Back in 1980, not many homes had more than a single TV, and computers and mobile phones were essentially non-existent. Yet somehow they used more electricity!

The answer to this question comes down to one simple principle. Energy efficiency. Government regulations and technical advances led by the private sector have resulted in appliances that are simply more sustainable. Throw in a better public understanding of the importance of reducing carbon emissions, and also the use of money expert comparison sites to track the expense of powering a home, and it the picture becomes a little clearer.

Expect to see this trend become ever more prevalent in the near future, as sustainability has become a huge industry that continues to rapidly expand.

Here’s a selection of the most recent energy efficiency innovations that are already helping homeowners save money that we can expect to become common place over the coming years.

1. Smart Homes

At first glance, you may wonder what the point is in buying a new domestic appliance that is advertised as ‘internet connected/ready’. After all, who is going to need a web compatible refrigerator or air conditioning unit? It is increasingly common for newly released appliances to boast this feature because in the coming years, our homes are going to be much more connected than at present. Being able to monitor and control energy expenditure remotely via smartphone is a tech that is already with us – but these are still the early days.

The next big step forward is going to be the implementation of wireless sensors throughout the home. These will connect all the appliances in the home to a centralized control panel which will automatically instruct how they interact with the energy supply.

For instance, appliances not in use, but on ‘standby’ mode will be entirely disconnected from the power supply when nobody is at home. Heating and air conditioning use will be precisely measured according to the ambient temperature. Just these two examples – and there are many more in the pipeline – are set to shave a considerable amount of household energy consumption in the very near future.

2. Next Generation Home Insulation

The US Industrial Science & Technology Network takes the approach that heating and cooling costs can best be reduced by simply developing superior insulation. While still at the development stage, these are promised to be far more efficient at preventing heat from escaping.

As may be expected, they are also going to be environmentally sound and most likely comprised of recycled foam materials. Should these be proven to work, there is a very good chance they will become the industry norm for new build and redeveloped housing in the years to come.

home-insulation

3. Reflective Roofing Materials

While insulation is ideal for maintaining an ambient temperature what about those who live in warmer climes? Everyone knows how expensive it is to run air conditioning 24 hours a day, but there have been considerable recent advances in reflective rooftop materials. Currently, these work by using special pigments that are coated onto the roof in order to reflect sunlight and heat.

The next generation in development will use fluorescent pigments that look likely to be up to four times more efficient. So for those who reside in areas where effective air conditioning is essential around the year, these new materials may well be an absolute godsend.

4. Magnetocaloric Refrigerators

A fridge powered by magnets? Close, but not quite. Refrigeration technology has barely changed or advanced since they were first introduced. Modern fridges still rely on vapor compression, which unfortunately requires chemical coolants that are notoriously bad for the environment.

Next generation models are going to be able to make use of water-based coolants that make use of the magnetocaloric effect. In layperson’s terms, this is the use of magnets to alter the magnetic field which can provide an extremely energy efficient cooling effect. Expect this to become commonplace in the coming years, thanks to their potential in enormously reducing energy expenditure and carbon emissions.

5. Much More Efficient Heat Pumps

Considerable progress has been made by the US Building Technologies Office in developing heat pumps that essentially move heat throughout the home. There are three models in design that promise to considerably reduce expenditure on heating while also significantly reduce carbon emissions. Standard gas boilers/furnaces are notoriously expensive and inefficient.

  • A low-cost gas-based heating pump could massively increase efficiency and result in lowering heating costs by a staggering 45%.
  • Multiple function fuel based pumps designed for domestic use can still save an estimated 30% with the added bonus of also providing more efficient water heating.
  • Natural gas based heating pumps connected with air conditioners aim to use a very low emission boiler to cater for all domestic needs regardless of the season. Of all three options, this is the most complete package and the one most likely to become widespread in the coming years.

These styles of heat pumps are also going to be used to significantly reduce the energy used by clothes drying machines. General Electric has been already near completing their first gas pump compatible dryer. This is intended to reduce the energy consumption of perhaps the least efficient appliance in the home by up to 60%.

heating-radiator

6. Even Better LED Lighting

Energy saving lighting may have become the accepted norm in many households, and the good news is that it is set to become even better. At present these are up to 85% more efficient than old fashioned incandescent bulbs, but the next generation – scheduled for a few years time – promise to double their efficiency. An improvement up to 230 lumens (from the current 115) is forecast.

8% of all electricity consumption in the USA are due to lighting homes and businesses. Having that figure will make for a huge national saving and reduction of energy costs across the board.

LED-lighting-workplace

7. Advanced Window Insulation

While still in development this may not sound like a huge advance, but could well result in enormous net energy savings down the line. Using microprocessors and sensors to measure sunlight and radiant heat, these are going to automatically provide shading to assist with providing ideal natural lighting and also assist with heating. Expect these to be integrated with the general smart home system outlined above in due course.

Final Thoughts

So there we have seven of the most exciting and interesting energy efficiency innovations that we can expect to see in the home over the coming years. While some are already in production while others are just passing the prototype phase, the future is looking positive in terms of reducing emissions and better managing energy consumption.

Energy efficiency is here to stay and these developments will likely only be the tip of the iceberg compared to what we can look forward to over coming decades.