WSJ on Saving Energy (and $$$) at Home
It’s one of the primary drawbacks facing the green movement today: the upfront cost that often accompanies going green. Although going green can help us save money in the long run, the amount of time it can take to break even frequently deters even those with the very best intentions (yes, me included). Especially considering the difficulties we’re facing in today’s economic environment (um, yes, me included again), many people just aren’t willing or able to incur this cost, even if they will, eventually, make it back. In many cases, we don’t even know how long “eventually” is.
Fortunately, the Wall Street Journal (I love when green goes mainstream) recently published this great article discussing practical household changes we can make to save energy, save money, and see payback within a reasonable timeframe. Importantly, it also defines what we can expect that timeframe to be.
The article addresses programmable thermostats, water heating efficiency systems, attic, window, door, and duct insulation, low-flow showerheads and faucet aerators, solar panel leasing, air filters, energy-efficient light bulbs, and lighting motion sensors, all of which can help you save energy and will pay for themselves in the relatively short term. Upfront costs range anywhere from free to $1,000, and the time before breaking even ranges from immediate to about seven years.
Of course, numerous variables go into the author’s estimates, many of which he explains, so you’ll have to consider each topic with your specific circumstances in mind if you want a reasonable idea of savings and payback time. In some cases, calculations were made using automated tools that allow for customizable parameters. In case you want to do some calculations specifically tailored to your own situation, I tracked down some of the tools the author used. Here they are:
- For Programmable Thermostats
- For Compact Flourescent Light Bulbs (CFL Bulbs)
- For Drain-water heat-recovery systems
In finding those, I also came across this awesome EnergyStar website, which provides a whole list of similar calculators for all kinds of residential and commercial appliances, fixtures, gadgets, etc. Super helpful for anyone exploring the financial implications of making some environmentally (and potentially economically) conscious home improvements.
