Winter is the time to cut costs and in Michigan, the winters are more than an annoyance, they’re brutal.
But with all the new emerging technologies out there, it’s hard to know what’s just hype and what will dramatically lower energy bills.
Geothermal heat is one of the newest front runners in Michigan’s energy arsenal, and with good reason. Most people think geothermal energy is only available in hotspots such as Iceland or Oregon, but it’s growing in popularity all around the world, even in Kalamazoo.
Chris Mendles, co-owner of Metzger’s Heating & Cooling on Gull Road, said he’s seen a 100 percent increase from June to November in the number of geothermal units he’s installed.
The way geothermal energy works is by transferring heated water from below the earth’s surface via piping to a home or business. The loop system also extracts heat from the home during the summer time to work as a natural air-conditioner.
According to the Michigan Geothermal Energy Association, not only is a system like this 75 percent more efficient than heating with oil but it’s also much more cost efficient. Homeowners can save between 40 percent to 70 percent in heating costs according to the Geothermal Heat Pump Consortium.
For those of you who don’t have the money, time, or a home to install a geothermal heating unit, there are some simple and even more inexpensive ways to get by this winter in whatever space you’re living in.
Putting plastic wrap over your windows can help keep those gusty winds and minor leaks out of your home or apartment. For an even greater effect, caulk and weather-strip those leaky areas. Make sure to ask your landlord or apartment manager about storm windows to help ensure all your heat is being conserved.
To get even more added heat into your living space, try opening the blinds or shades on nice, sunny days. South-facing windows can transfer a substantial amount of heat into your home. Also check your thermostats and set them to 68 degrees or lower if you’re going out of town or don’t mind wearing double layers.
Try to only use kitchen or bathroom exhaust fans when necessary. For some it’s a habit, but fans like those pull heat out of the air, leaving your home cooler than before.
Minor repairs to increase wintertime energy efficiency are minimal in cost and labor, but will still help you save.
For those bigger tasks, such as installing a higher efficiency furnace or a geothermal unit, the start-up costs can be what scares a lot of people away.
Go to www.dsireusa.org to find out about government rebates and grants that will help you get started.
I think it is fantastic how the stimulus funds are making a difference. They are being taken advantage of all the time with the installation of geothermal heat pumps to replace high energy heating and cooling systems.