Homeowners, it's time to take a hard look at what you are spending on utilities! Want to lower your costs and put more money in your pocket??? Here are a few ideas I have incorporated to make my home more energy-efficient (short of adding solar-panels).
1) HOME ENERGY AUDIT. Call Progress Energy RIGHT NOW to schedule your free home energy audit. It costs you NOTHING and take about 1 - 2 hours. At the conclusion, you'll get a report and a rebate for $$$ off new insulation.
2) INSULATION. If your home was built prior to the late 90's, chances are you have R-19 insulation OR LESS!! For less than a couple hundred dollars, you can get R-30 insulation blown in and then use the Progress Energy rebate to reduce that amount. Then, take the allowable deduction on your federal taxes! Just 2-3 months of savings on your power bill will pay for the cost of the insulation and then you're MAKING money!
3) Have your A/C system serviced. You wouldn't run your car without servicing it at some point during the year - why do that to your A/C. Have a pro check the pressures, measure the refrigerant level, and make sure your condensate line is clear of obstructions. You'll extend the life of the system.
4) Drain your water heater. Bet you didn't realize you could do that. If you live in Pinellas, chances are you will have sediment buildup in your water heater. There is a hose bib on the bottom with a valve. Drain the water until it runs clear at least once per year!
5) Turn down the temp on your water heater. Some water heaters are factory-set at 130+ degrees. Turn it down to 120 and you won't realize the difference, except in your bill. Also, install a timer to automatically turn it on and off during hi-use times. Why run a water heater 24 hours a day when you just need hot water for a couple of hours? You'll also extend the life of the water heater.
6) Turn up your refrigerator. The cool part should be appr 37 degrees and the freezer at 0 degrees.
7) Air leaks. Buy caulk and a caulking gun and check all your windows. Chances are you'll see some leaks. Also works well for keeping moisture out of the house.
8) Roof. If you're re-roofing, choose a lighter color OR even better, choose a metal roof. They reflect heat and have a longer life.
About Me
- Rich Cornelius
- Born in New York, I retired to the Tampa Bay area at the ripe old age of 18 months, and have been a resident ever since. I attended Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, received my Bachelors Degree in Aeronautical Science and became an airline pilot with a major carrier. After 5 years in professional aviation, I joined Sand Key Realty, Sales & Rentals. While at Sand Key Realty, I successfully sold more than $10M in residential real estate, including one of the highest sales on record on Clearwater Beach. In June of '07, I joined Coldwell Banker Residential Real Estate in Clearwater so I could better serve family, friends and clients alike and meet all of their real estate needs. In real estate, as in aviation, I do it right the first time because of the trust and responsibility placed in me by my clients. Simply put, it’s all about the details.
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