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Often times, heating or cooling devices are not
operating at their maximum efficiency because their
maintenance has been neglected.
Duct System
• Ensure that ducts do not have leaks. A leak loses the
air (hot or cold) that the ventilation system is trying to
disperse through the house.
• A leaky duct can account for 25% of the cooling
costs a homeowner is spending on a utility bill.
• For more information regarding how to seal a leaky
duct, please visit the Energy Star Website |
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Fireplace
• If you no longer use the fireplace, plug and seal the chimney flue in order to avoid the unnecessary loss of cold or warm air.
• When a fire is not on, make sure to keep the damper closed in order to avoid allowing warm air to escape up the chimney.
• A smart alternative to using a wood burning fireplace would be to install a gas fireplace. A direct vent natural gas fireplace will help to prevent warm air from escaping out of your home. |
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Energy Star
• Energy Star products are certified to make energy consumption more efficient for the environment, and for your wallet! |
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Replacing a standard light bulb with
Energy Star fluorescent bulbs will
maximize the efficiency and life your light usage by 6 to 10 times. |
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Changes from standard products to products with the Energy Star
certification will often save you 10% on each new appliance/product upgrade |
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• Look for the Energy Star logo when you are purchasing products for your home or office; such as air conditioners, refrigerators, computer, windows, etc.
• Visit the Energy Star website in order to find a complete list of products that feature the earth-friendly logo. |
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Windows
Windows are an essential portal from your home to the outside world, but they also have the potential to waste away the money you’re spending on your heating/cooling system.
Replacing Windows:
• Purchase Energy Star rated windows in order to maximize comfort and save money on energy costs.
• Key vocabulary when purchasing new windows. |
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Upgrading Already Existing Windows:
• Install awnings over the windows to prevent direct sunlight from entering the home.
• Consider solar window screens for even more sun protection.
• Weatherize your windows by filling in gaps around the frames. This allows the windows to more effectively keep a consistent temperature within the home.
• Mount white window shades and drapes in order to deflect sunlight from entering the house.
The Energy Star website offers a comprehensive guide to obtaining energy efficient windows |
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California hopes to make renewable energy, such as solar and wind power, 20% of its electricity by the year 2017. |
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• Photovoltaic energy utilizes the sun’s natural energy to generate power inside or outside of the house. |
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Learn more about the monetary incentives California offers to homeowners who switch to using renewable energy. |
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How Do I Find a Rater?
• In order to determine the energy efficiency of your home you can have the property appraised to receive a Home Energy Rating System (HERS) report. To find a certified rater in your area click here.
What Does The Rating Mean?
• The rating measures how efficiently the home utilizes energy on a scale from 1-100, with higher scores denoting greater efficiency. Please visit the Flex Your Power website
What Are The Benefits?
• If you decide to make upgrades to your home, contingent upon your rating, you may qualify for an Energy Efficient Mortgage (EEM). The EEM allows you to make the appropriate energy saving changes to your home and it factors in the cost during refinancing. For more information about receiving an EEM visit California's Flex your Power website.
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www.energycoalition.org
The Energy Coalition has partnered with the City of Irvine as part of the Community Energy Partnership Program. Visit their website for more information about energy education through the “PEAK” school program and the household & business energy efficiency upgrades. |
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www.sce.com
A local utility company, the Southern California Edison website provides tips on how to use energy in an ecologically friendly way. |
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www.energystar.gov
The Energy Star website provides a complete list of items that are energy star certified and the benefits of purchasing these environmentally friendly products. |
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www.fypower.org
The Flex Your Power website offers energy saving tips for businesses, homes, industry, etc. |
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http://hes.lbl.gov/
The EPA energy saver website can provide you with area-specific energy saving tips. Simply visit the website and type in your zip code. |
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