Whenever you talk about energy conservation the first thing that might strike your mind is installing solar panels. But before installing any such device you should also make some changes in your home appliances so that the generated energy can be used in a better way. Like if you are planning to install a solar panel then it would be great if you change your old incandescent lights with CFLs. This also holds true in many other cases.
Summer time is about to end and you must have realized that beating the summer heat requires some energy eaters like air conditioners. Well, have you ever thought that landscaping might prove to be a better option than mechanical equipment like air conditioners – Its true, altering the orientation of a house and the arrangement of trees and shrubs that provide shade for cooling and buffering from winds can prove beneficial not only in summers but also in winters.
According to the USDA , the best time to plant a tree is late summer or early fall as this gives the tree a chance to establish new roots before winter arrives and the ground freezes and when spring arrives, the tree is ready to grow and help you out in summers.
The memories of summer are still fresh in everyone’s mind – take stock of how the house responded to the summer sun and which areas can benefit from additional shade that is provided by trees. If not about the hard days you spent during summers then you can also think about the approaching winter. Trees can stop drafts and can buffer from cold winter winds.
All this can not only minimize the need of electrical equipment but also add to the beauty of your property.
Via: Green Options