Do an energy audit – understand all of the variables
Commit to the process - because it will save you money
Take action through implementation of energy conservation measures

Energy Audit and green living principles 

• Choose an energy consultant specializing in energy audits
• Verify your commitment to the process
• Study the details of energy consumption in a comprehensive fashion
• Value engineer the energy components of your home through the audit process and conservation measures

10 steps you can take to reduce your energy consumption as well as actions to take to conserve natural resources 

1 – The exterior of your home

• Study and adjust irrigation controller
• Switch to drip vs. spray where possible
• Verify all drainage systems in good shape
• Review and adjust all exterior lighting

• Motion sensors
• Timer clocks or control systems
• Energy efficient light bulbs

2 – The energy envelope of your home

• Verify windows double pane – or discuss replacement
• Verify all exterior door weather-stripping working
• Verify air infiltration at garage doors
• Verify R value of insulation in floors, walls and ceilings
• Inspect underside of all wood framed floors
• Discuss air infiltration concerns if any – caulk or seal as needed

3 – Your existing utility bills

• Verify monthly and annual costs and KW consumption
• Verify your desired reduction on a monthly cost basis
• Inventory existing appliances in order of max consumption
• Analyze costs and benefits of replacing appliances

4 – Your Electrical and Lighting Systems

• Inventory light system controllers, light bulbs and motion sensors
• Create strategy to reduce lighting consumption by 30%
• Switch to CFL’s
• Discuss solar tubes, skylights, etc.
  

5 – Your Heating and Cooling Systems

• Verify Gas or Electric and efficiency rating of existing systems
• Discuss thermostat programming – implement changes
• Install new filters for air quality where applicable
• Inspect ductwork in attic and under floor
• Verify all HVAC systems in good working order
• Inspect and verify all fire places in good working order
• Verify all exhaust and venting systems in good working order
• Verify all controls on radiant systems

6 – Your Plumbing Systems

• Implement energy conservation blankets and controllers
• Solar Hot Water systems
• Verify all exposed hot water and exterior systems insulated
• Check circulation pumps on timer

7 – Verifying options for green finishes

• Flooring, Paints, Countertops
• Other

8 – How to lower your energy costs and consumption

• Implement all conservation measures or develop long term strategy with your energy consultant
• Photovoltaic systems that pay for themselves and save you money
• New Tax Credits are significant
  

9 – What it will cost to take action

• Comprehensive list of conservation items and applicable costs
• Matching list of desired green living changes
• PV Electric Proposal
• Other
  

10 - Paying for your energy conservation investment

• Cash – verify estimated return on investment
• Get a green loan - Local lenders want to help you