Sunset Air Blog: Archive for the ‘Go Green’ Category

10 Easy ways to save energy

Tuesday, December 23rd, 2014

save-on-energy

10 Easy ways to save energy

  • Turn off lights when you leave a room.
  • Many appliances use energy even when they’re not “on”. Consider unplugging or using a power strip to turn off when these appliances are not in use: televisions, VCR/DVD, stereos, computers, coffee pot and cell phone charges.
  • Turn your water heater off when not in use. If you are in need of a new water heater, check into the tankless versions, they can save bundles of money.
  • Shorten your shower time; take showers instead of baths.
  • Wash clothes on the cold setting, and only wash when you have a full load. Hand washing is still an option for a few items at a time.
  • Put up a clothesline outside, it does not use any energy and your clothes will smell like sunshine. (Use liquid fabric softener in the wash and your clothes will not be stiff). When using the dryer, clean the vent after each use.
  • Set your thermostat to 78 degrees in the summer and 68 degrees in the winter. This will be an enormous savings. Keep the fan on “auto” instead of “on”. Use a fireplace in the winter; in the spring and fall, open windows, air out the house and turn the thermostat “off”.(Replacing older thermostat with a programmable one can significantly add to your savings). When away from home, either for work or on vacation, go a little higher in the summer and lower in the winter to see additional savings.
  • In the summer close blinds and drapes to help keep your home cool and open them in the winter to let more sun in to help heat your home. Keep doors and windows closed while air conditioner is running.
  • Use ceiling fans, this keeps the air circulating making it easier to heat and cool.
  • Take shorter showers.

To schedule a home energy audit today, call 360-456-4956

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How to Prepare for Solar Panel Installation

Wednesday, April 9th, 2014

Here in Tacoma, solar installation is a much more viable option than it was just a few short years ago. Washington State isn’t known for its sunny days, but thanks to advances in solar technology, we can still take full advantage of this perpetually renewable source of power. If you’ve decided to install a set of solar panels, you should make sure your home is ready for it, and have everything set before the big day arrives. Here’s a short guide on how to prepare for solar installation. You can discuss the specifics with your technician based on the particular needs of your home.

Sunset Air knows that every home is different and that you need a system of solar panels that’s right for your circumstances. Give us a call today and let us show you what we can do!

Steps to Prepare Your Home for Solar Installation

You should start by giving your roof a thorough inspection or having your contractor do it. You want to watch for things like leaks, rickety panels, loose shingles, or anything that may interfere with the system’s ability to function. In many cases, solar panels can be installed regardless of the slope or style of the roof, but you want to make sure it’s all in tip-top shape before installation begins.

Along those lines, you’ll need to measure the square area of your roof (or your yard if you’re installing the panels there) to ensure that there’s enough space. Generally speaking, you’ll need about 400 square feet of free space for an efficient set of solar panels, but you may need more depending upon the power requirements of your home.

Finally, consider the presence of shadows or the like from nearby trees and other structures. Your solar panels need to have an unobstructed view of the sky for as many hours of the day as possible. You may need to cut away tree limbs or even remove certain trees in order to do that.

As always, advice from a trained professional can help you prepare for solar installation properly. And in Tacoma, solar installation experts can be found at Sunset Air. Come in and see us today.

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