Clean Energy Insight - Moving Energy Forward

( By Michael Bloom )

Here at Clean Energy Insight we promote nuclear energy because it is safe, great for the environment, and less expensive than other environmentally friendly alternatives. We know producing cheap clean energy is great, but we also want to battle America’s energy needs with energy conservation. We will be adding many posts on conserving energy but to get you started we will begin with one of the largest energy consumers in your home “Heating Ventilation and Air Conditioning”.

Ways to Save

1. Install a programmable thermostat to control the temperature while you’re away from home and you could save well over $100 a year.
2. Replace your air filter at least once every 3 months.
3. Perform regular maintenance on your HVAC system (check list).
4. If you have an old HVAC system consider replacing it with a more efficient system.
5. Insulate doors and windows with weather stripping.
6. Insulate any place where air or heat could escape like your attic.
7. Using ceiling fans in the summer instead of turning the thermostat down.

For more detailed information on “Heating Ventilation and Air Conditioning” check out this guide.

Tax Breaks

Taking steps to make your home more energy efficient can also provide you with up to $1500 in tax breaks due to the recent economic stimulus bill. The tax credit will cover 30% of improvements like installing energy efficient air conditioners, furnaces, and heat pumps. The stimulus also covers adding more insulation and installing energy efficient doors/windows. The tax credit has a lifetime cap of $1,500 and expires after 2010. For more detailed information click here.