Easy Ways to Reduce Energy Use Outdoors
by Tyler Castle
2.4 min read
When most homeowners think about reducing energy usage, they focus on the inside of the home. Don’t stop there. Energy-saving opportunities exist outdoors as well!
Here are some tips to help you reduce utility bills and have a positive impact on the environment — in your own back yard.
Plant Shade Trees
Plant trees where they will grow to shade your house. During hot months shade trees can help lower the temperature inside your home by blocking solar heat coming in through the roof and windows. If the house is cooler naturally, fans or air conditioners don’t have to run as often, saving wear and tear on appliances — and saving you money.
According to the Department of Energy, trees can reduce surrounding air temperatures by as much as 6°F and temperatures directly under trees can be as much as 25°F cooler than air temperatures above nearby blacktop.1
Deciduous trees (those that lose their leaves annually) will provide shade in hot months but still allow sunlight in during cold months. Popular deciduous trees include oak, maple, birch, ash, willow, poplar, aspen, and beech. Talk to a local landscaper or gardening center employee for recommendations for your region.
Use Hand Tools
These days, there is a power tool for just about every outdoor task. Consider which tools are truly necessary to the situation, and, when possible, do chores by hand. For example:
– If you have a small yard, try using a push mower.
– Rake leaves instead of using a leaf blower.
– Trim with clippers instead of power tools.
Doing things by hand will minimize costs for electric charging, save money on fuel for gas-powered machines, and create less pollution.
Review Outdoor Lighting
Outdoor lighting enhances safety, beautifies your home, and extends time spent enjoying your outdoor space. From time to time, review your outdoor lighting and consider these energy-saving options:
Solar light — When replacing old lighting, consider solar-powered lights, which convert sunlight into electricity. They are better for the environment and can save you money. Solar technology has come a long way for improvements in lighting quality and style.
Motion sensors — Another lighting consideration is to use motion-sensor lights rather than leaving outdoor electric lights on all night.
Energy-efficient bulbs — Finally, if you don’t have the option to replace traditional fixtures, you can still replace conventional bulbs with Energy Star models for greater efficiency.
Switch to Santanna
Homeowners may also be able to save money by switching to an alternative energy supplier. Santanna Energy Services offers a variety of competitive electricity and natural gas plans to eligible customers in Ohio, Illinois, Pennsylvania, Michigan, and Indiana.
Click here to learn more about our energy solutions. Or simply give us a call and one of our energy specialists will be happy to help!
Call: 630-491-6784
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1https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/landscaping-shade
Tyler is an experienced energy professional, having worked for Santanna Energy Services, for the past four years. He is passionate about renewable energy and believes that diversifying the energy grid is the key to a sustainable future. Tyler is dedicated to supplying consumers with the best possible energy solutions and works diligently to make sure that Santanna can deliver the highest quality service.
