Energy efficiency and energy conservation might seem like the same thing, but they’re actually two very different concepts with the same end goal — saving more energy. An energy efficient home will save you more money, but you can reduce your bills even more by conserving as much energy as you can.
Read on to learn about the difference between energy efficiency and energy conservation, and how you can conserve more energy in your energy efficient home.
Energy Efficiency vs. Energy Conservation
Energy efficiency involves using energy in an efficient way without reducing the service, such as heating or cooling. Energy conservation is cutting back on that service to save energy.
A house that uses technology to use less energy without sacrificing comfort is energy efficient. For example, an efficient, up-to-date HVAC system will use less energy to heat up your home compared to an older model. Energy conservation, on the other hand, would involve turning down the temperature to save energy.
Here are some other features that are found in energy efficient houses:
- The use of efficient compact fluorescent bulbs instead of incandescent light bulbs.
- Energy efficient appliances, such as refrigerators and washing machines, that have the Energy Star label.
- Insulation in the attic and walls.
- Energy-efficient windows.
- A furnace that has a high AFUE rating.
- A geothermal heating and cooling system.
- Properly sealed air ducts and a well-sealed home with minimal air leaks.
Tips for Energy Conservation
Even though your Dayton home might be energy efficient, you can reduce your energy consumption even more to help the environment. Here are some tips:
- Turn down your thermostat during the night or when you’re away. A programmable thermostat can help with this task.
- Unplug computers and other home appliances when they’re not in use.
- Turn off the lights when you leave a room.
- Conserve hot water by not rinsing dishes before putting them into the dishwasher and taking shorter showers.
For more information about energy efficiency and energy conservation, contact Detmer And Sons, Inc. today. We proudly serve Dayton homeowners with all of their HVAC needs.
Our goal is to help educate our customers in Dayton, Ohio about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).
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