• June

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    2018
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Tips for Energy Efficiency This Summer

Tips for Energy Efficiency This Summer

You’ve heard it on the news and feel it at the gas pump. Yep, energy costs are creeping up. But fortunately, Eco Custom Homes has some pretty simple tips and tricks to help you save on that precious dollar! Eco Custom Homes specializes in providing our customers with energy efficient materials and workmanship, so we have learned through the years the best ways to conserve energy. So, without further ado, let’s get started!

Fans, Fans, and More Fans

According to Energy.gov, the use of a ceiling fan will allow you to raise your AC cooling temperature by about 4°F. Over the course of the month that could lead to big savings. However, keep in mind that the cooling effect from a fan is because of the “wind chill effect”, so leaving the fan on while you’re not in the room does not help reduce the temperature.

Also consider ventilation fans for your bathrooms, laundry rooms, in short, any room that traps heat and humidity.

The Right Temperature for Room Temperature

 

 

Small differences in temperature can lead to big savings. Set your room temperature to 78°F (ahem not 68°F or 70°F), those extra 4°F to 6°F really start to add up over time.

Be Careful with Those Appliances!

Timing is everything for when you use your appliances. Avoid using your oven between 2pm to 8pm during the summer. If you insist on having to cook during those times, consider using an outdoor grill or microwave to heat or cook your food. Also, avoid having your thermostat be in close proximity to your appliances.

You should also consider washing your clothes with cold water and running the dryer at night, when the air temperature is cooler.

Cell phone and battery chargers that are plugged in but not in use are often referred to as energy vampires. According to Energy.gov, the average charger consumes 0.26 watts of energy when not in use and 2.24 watts when connected to your phone. Alone, one charger won’t make much impact, but collectively energy vampires can be responsible for 10% of your energy bill. So, unplug your chargers when not in use.

Warm Water is Hot Water

Set your water heater at 120°F. That is still quite warm and colder showers are better in the summer anyway!

If you have other energy efficiency goals get in touch with us today and we’ll be glad to provide you with a free assessment on how to replace aging materials with new, modern, energy efficient alternatives that will ultimately boost the value of your home.

Seal All Windows

Go the extra mile by sealing the air leaks in and around the windows in your home. If your windows are drafty, consider adding weatherstripping around the frames. Add a bead of silicone caulk over any cracks in your drywall or apply a sheet of shrink film to your windows. Sealing gaps and cracks is an easy and inexpensive way to lower energy costs.

Add Insulation to your Home

Adding insulation to your attic can help seal air leaks and improve your home’s heating and cooling costs. The amount of insulation needed to cover your attic depends on your home’s size.

 

Are you interested in learning more about how Eco Custom Homes can help you provide a better home or commercial environment to save on your energy costs? Contact us today to schedule a free consultation!

 

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Costs of Custom Homes

The first thing most people want to know is: What does it costs to build a 3000 sqft custom home in the Atlanta, GA. market?  The first thing you have to calculate is the square footage you want.  Once you have that, the numbers below give you a good starting point.

Adjusted Square Foot Calculation:

New Construction:

Renovations:

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