Planting Trees to Help Save on Electricity
Friday, February 15th, 2008You can use nature to help improve the performance of your home. Your home’s cooling needs are largely affected by the heat that enters your home. While your home’s heating requirements are driven partly by cold air that leaks into the house. Both can be improved with the use of carefully selected and positioned trees and vines.
The simple strategy is to place deciduous trees or vines on the south side of your house and evergreens on the north side.
On the south side, well placed deciduous trees will shade the house in summer but let sunlight through in winter. And that winter sun can also help warm your home when you need it to. Be careful to let to trees shade as much window area as possible, particularly from midday to late afternoon. Try to consider how the trees will grow over the years. Deciduous vines are another alternative that can give you results sooner. Build a trellis a few feet from the window to support your vines. It can be either vertical or horizontal but make sure the end result will provide shade to the windows.
On the north side of your house you should plant evergreens – either low trees or shrubs to buffer your home from cold north winds. Remember that large trees should not be planted too close to the house as the roots can damage your foundations. Some sources recommend keeping large trees 35 feet away from the house. Keep in mind that the roots will typically spread as wide underground as the branches spread overhead.
Properly sited trees and landscaping could save you up to 30% of your home’s heating and cooling costs. Be sure to select plants that are appropriate to your climate zone. Work with a local gardening professional if you lack any confidence.
Texas electric is a reseller of Texas electricity and generally concerned when it comes to excess electricity usage by providing access to cheap electricity in Texas. The Texas energy company maintains a save electricity blog which provides tips and suggestions about how to save money on your electricity bill.