Page 175 - Solar Power in Building Design The Engineer's Complete Design Resource

GENERAL ENERGY-SAVING MEASURES 145

a solar or wind energy system, gas and propane are options that will reduce the over-
all electricity usage of your home.

Water heaters Water heaters can be an overwhelming load for any renewable energy
system, as well as a drain on the pocketbook for those using electricity from a local util-
ity. The following are some suggestions to increase the efficiency of electric heaters.

■ Lower the thermostat to 120 to 130°F.
■ Fix any leaky faucets immediately.
■ Wrap your water heater with insulation.
■ Turn off the electricity to your indoor water heater if you will be out of town for
3 or more days.
■ Use a timer to turn off the water heater during the hours of the day when no one is
at home.

If you are looking for a higher-efficiency water heater, you may want to consider using
a “flash” or “tankless” water heater, which heats water on demand. This method of heat-
ing water is very effective and does not require excessive electricity to keep a tank of
water hot. It also saves water because you do not have to leave the water running out of
the tap while you wait for it to get hot. Propane or natural gas water heaters are another
option for those who want to minimize their electricity demand as much as possible.

INSULATION AND WEATHERIZATION

Inadequate insulation and air leakage are leading causes of energy waste in many
homes. By providing adequate insulation in your home, walls, ceilings, and floors will
be warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer. Insulation can also help act as a
sound absorber or barrier, keeping noise levels low within the home. The first step to
improving the insulation of a building is to know the type of existing insulation.
To check the exterior insulation, simply switch off the circuit breaker to an outlet
on the inside of an exterior wall. Then remove the electric outlet cover and check to
see if there is insulation within the wall. If there is not, insulation can be added by an
insulation contractor who can blow cellulose into the wall through small holes, which
are then plugged. The geometry of attics will also determine the ease with which addi-
tional insulation can be added. Insulating an attic will significantly increase the ability
to keep heat in during winter and out during summer.
One of the easiest ways to reduce energy bills and contribute to the comfort of your
home or office space is by sealing air leaks around windows and doors. Temporary or
permanent weather stripping can be used around windows and doors. Use caulk to seal
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other gaps that are less than inch wide and expanding foam for larger gaps. Storm
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windows and insulating drapes or curtains will also help improve the energy perform-
ance of existing windows.
HEATING AND COOLING

Every indoor space requires an adequate climate control system to maintain a comfort-
able environment. Most people live or work in areas where the outdoor temperature