Why waste money on electricity and water for your outdoor spaces when you can be eco-conscious and efficient? Check out these cheap energy-saving/water-saving ways to spruce up your landscaping and potentially start saving on your utility bills.
Plant shade trees
If your home gets minimal shade during the day, you’re most likely using a lot of air conditioning to stay cool in summer. Instead of running the A/C 24/7, try planting trees that offer some relief from the hot summer days.
Experts suggest planting deciduous trees in an arc around your home’s east, southeast, south, southwest and west faces. Deciduous trees can block sunlight from directly hitting your house. Unlike evergreens, deciduous trees will be bare during the colder months, letting the sunshine warm your home.
Since heating and cooling can make up approximately 50% of a household’s electricity use, planting shade trees strategically can greatly impact your energy bill. The U.S. Department of Energy estimates that carefully positioned trees could save up to 25% of a typical home’s energy use. It’s also a win for the environment, as trees help absorb atmospheric carbon dioxide.
Use solar lighting
What’s better than cheap energy? Free energy! Solar lighting is all the rage, and for good reason. Capturing energy from the sun’s rays and converting it into electricity for free is a no-brainer compared to wiring lamps and lights to a power source.
Plus, solar lighting options abound! Choose from post-top and pole lamps, ground or tabletop floor lamps, recessed, or accent lighting. Use them on your front porch, to line your driveway or walkway, to power your late-night deck party and more. Just remember to keep the glass or plastic that encases the solar cell clean so the sun can recharge it properly.
Water wisely
Before you reach for the hose or program your sprinkler system, confirm that you’re making the most of your watering efforts. One simple way to water efficiently is to do it in the morning, before 10 a.m.
Some people believe watering in the evening after temperatures cool down is better. However, moisture can attach to plants overnight and may cause fungus or other diseases. But watering in the early morning gives that water time to soak into plant roots before the hot weather evaporates it. (Since Texas has brutal summers, the earlier you can water, the better!)
Another smart watering strategy for a garden is to use a drip irrigation system. This method provides a slow, steady, and even watering of plant roots that reduces water waste.
These water-efficient landscaping strategies can help you drastically reduce your yard watering, which can lower the water bill.
Find cheap energy plans to fit your budget
Energy and water efficient landscaping techniques are just two ways to try and lower your utility bills. Another way is to search for cheap energy plans from Texas electricity providers you can trust and sign up for the one that best suits your needs and budget. To start your search, compare pricing and enroll within minutes, visit Everything Energy.