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About 40 percent of the energy consumed in America is spent in homes and commercial businesses ("Why Energy Efficiency Upgrades"). This statistic is important because it shows that almost half of the energy expended in the US is caused by the actions we take on a daily basis. Each of us makes an impact on the environment and if we all do our part, we can lessen the harmful effects of global warming. 

 

But how exactly does the amount of electricity that we use equate to global greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions? It's simple. Electricity, for the most part, is created in ways that cause pollution and deplete our natural resources. In California, over 50 percent of electricity is produced by methods involving coal, natural gas, and nuclear power ("2018 Total System Electric Generation"), which all have a negative impact on our planet. 

Why The Push For Energy Efficiency?

Green Panda Homes cares about the environment and we want to help you find ways to make your lifestyle more eco-friendly. Keep reading to find out what modifications we can help you make to lower your carbon footprint.

Solar Panels on Roof

Energy-efficient products are a great investment for a few reasons:

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1. They decrease the amount of money spent on energy bills by reducing the total amount of energy consumed in your home. â€‹

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2. They lessen the harm done to our environment by reducing GHG emissions.

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3. They can increase the value of your property. 

Maximize Energy-Efficiency by Air Sealing and Insulating

According to The Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy, the average American could be losing up to "$200 to $400... from drafts, air leaks around openings, and outdated heating and cooling systems." 

 

This means that each year Americans are practically throwing away money because their home is either using up way too much energy and/or their home isn't very effective in retaining cool and warm air.

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At Green Panda Homes, we understand that proper insulation and air sealing play a huge role in energy expenditure. They provide a continuous air sealed layer that controls heat loss and unwanted heat gain by preventing energy from escaping at points of the home such as the: 

  • Roof

  • Walls

  • Windows

  • Doors

  • Floors

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"Most common insulation materials work by slowing conductive heat flow and--to a lesser extent--convective heat flow. Radiant barriers and reflective insulation systems work by reducing radiant heat gain. To be effective, the reflective surface must face an air space." (energy.gov)

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When your home is not properly insulated, most of the cool/warm air that is present in your home tends to escape through leaks and openings and you end up wasting more energy in trying to keep your home at a consistent and comfortable temperature.

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By simply investing in proper insulation you will keep your home warmer and eliminate drafts in the winter. Good insulation will even protect you from the temperature outside, maintaining cool air inside your home during the summer months. 

 

Invest In Energy Efficient Upgrades

Home Entrance

If your door is old or doesn't fit properly you're actually spending more on energy than you should be. Heat loss through door leakage= high energy costs. You should consider buying energy efficient doors to help insulate and reduce air leakage.

Image by Nicolas Solerieu

Window frames are the weakest area, in terms of insulation. A lot air can escape through the frames if your window isn't energy efficient. Aside from the frames, glass panes, glass coatings, fills, and spacers all play an important role in determining how efficient a window is. 

Insulation Detail
Insulation

Good insulation should encapsulate your entire home. It provides resistance to the temperatures outside of your home and retains cool/warm air inside not only to save on energy but also improve comfort. Consider adding an extra layer of insulation to your home soon.

Solar Panels on Roof
Solar Panels

The best benefit you can gain besides lower energy cost is the relief that you are investing in a renewable energy source. Solar panels are low maintenance and contribute less to GHG emissions. 

Image by Lorenzo Mitil
Ceiling Fans

Ceiling fans are a great way to increase air circulation in your home! It can be used by itself to prevent use of the AC or it can be in conjunction with the AC to allow you to set the AC at a higher setting and still keep your family cool during the summer.

Bathroom Sinks
Low Flow Plumbing

Low flow fixtures save water and they can even save on energy. Saving on both water and energy is good for both your wallet AND the environment.

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