Watts the Big Deal?

It can be a “big deal” to improve energy consumption by replacing some of the larger systems in your home, but what small steps can we take to help save energy? Step One - Next trip to your local store, purchase a pack of four, 13 watt Compact Fluorescent Light Bulbs, commonly referred to as, CFLs. The 13 watt CFL produces light that is equivalent to a 60 watt incandescent bulb. Next, identify some lamps with standard, 60 watt, incandescent bulbs that you can replace with the CFLs. Now, you have just saved 78% of the energy that it took to power the incandescent bulbs. CFLs are available in a variety of sizes, shapes and wattages, and are available at most hardware, grocery and big box stores. They cost a bit more than a conventional incandescent bulb, but they will last significantly longer. Sam’s Club and Walmart are partnering with Dominion Virginia Power to provide reduced pricing on CFLs. After testing CFLs in many lamps over the past three years, we have found a marked improvement in the color of the light, often being indistinguishable from the light from an incandescent bulb. The bulbs have also improved the “instant on” feature; some of the older bulbs took a while to warm up to full brightness. There are even bulbs available for recessed lights, candelabras and 3 way lamps. Step Two – If you find that the light is pleasing and acceptable, continue to replace all of your light bulbs with CFLs. Since lighting typically accounts for about 20% of the average electric bill, every little bit helps. A CFL can save $66.00 or more in energy costs over the lifetime of the bulb. That should more than make up for the higher purchase price. CFLs contain a small amount of mercury, so care should be taken to clean up safely if one is broken, and used bulbs should be recycled properly. Most hardware store are, or will soon be, providing recycling drop off locations.

SugarOak, located in Northern Virginia, can design and build on your lot, or we can find the perfect location for you, whether it’s in Virginia, Maryland, or Washington DC. Our team will stay in constant communication while building your home. At SugarOak, we build unique custom homes and long-term relationships