Energy Saving Tips

Reading the monthly issue of TEXAS REALTOR® I ran across an article that answered some questions for me, just how much does one save in some of the energy saving ideas we hear so much about. Some of the answers were surprising to me and others not... SO here we go, according to the Texas Realtor® magazine of July 2009.

*A homeowner of a 10yr old 2 story, 2000 sq ft single family home could save up to $250 a year by upgrading the original air conditioning system.

*The annual water bill could be reduced by $50 a year by changing to a new front loading washer from the old top loader.

*Compact fluoresecent light bulbs can reduce energy from a incandescent light bulb by 75%.

*It is TRUE that frequently turning off and on a compact fluorsecent light bulb can shorten its life.

*About $30 over the lifetime of a compact fluorscent bulb will be the savings over using an incandescent blub for the same amount of time.

*A TopMount Freezer is usually the most energy efficient style.

*A single family household using the 4setting programmable thermostat can save about $180 a year over using the manually adjusting temperature control. (Many of these thermostats will cost less than $80 so a huge savings the first year)

*About 20% of cooled or heated air is lost thru duct leaks in the typical home.

These issues are addressed on the Austin Energy Audit that is now mandatory if you are selling your home inside the City of Austin and if it is serviced by City of Austin Utilities. Look for this energy audit to become standard throughout many states soon. The Austin program is being followed by many cities as a model for energy savings.

There are many rebate programs available in the City of Austin plus add the Federal IRS tax advantages it could be time to make some upgrades.

If you are looking to Buy or Sell your home in Austin, South Austin, Dripping Springs, Buda or Kyle give me a call and let's chat about your Real Estate GOALS. Gail Tassey, Realtor®, 512-217-9482 http://austincomeshome.com