Client Quote


"I want to take a moment to express our appreciation for the approach that your firm has taken to the three projects Meridian has done for me. I was so impressed that we purchased a system from you for our own home."

D. Felps

Did You Know


 

The U.S. solar market grew 57% in 2007 from the previous year.

Energy Efficiency Tips Energy Efficiency

Energy Efficiency Tips Solar works best in a home or building that already has some energy efficient measures in place. In addition to a solar electric installation, there are many other ways to lessen your energy load. Start saving more energy today with these low-cost or no cost tips:

  • Install a programmable thermostat to keep your house comfortably warm in the winter and comfortably cool in the summer.
     
  • Use compact fluorescent light bulbs with the ENERGY STAR™ label.
     
  • Air dry dishes instead of using your dishwasher’s drying cycle.
     
  • Turn off your computer and monitor when not in use.
     
  • Plug home electronics, such as TVs and DVD players, into power strips; turn the power strips off when the equipment is not in use (TVs and DVDs in standby mode still use several watts of power).
     
  • Lower the thermostat on your hot water heater to 120°F.
     
  • Install a low-flow showerhead. Take short showers instead of baths.
     
  • Wash only full loads of dishes and clothes. When washing clothes, use warm or cold water and rinse with cold. Air dry clothes, but not indoors as this creates unwanted mold and moisture problems.
     
  • Look for the ENERGY STAR label on home appliances and products. ENERGY STAR products meet strict efficiency guidelines set by the U.S. Department of Energy and the Environmental Protection Agency.
     
  • Seal the air leaks around utility cut-throughs for pipes ("plumbing penetrations"), gaps around chimneys and recessed lights in insulated ceilings, and unfinished spaces behind cupboards and closets.
     
  • Add caulk or weather-stripping to seal air leaks around leaky doors and windows.
     
  • Install foam gaskets behind electric-outlet and switch-plate covers.
     
  • Set refrigerator temperatures between 37 and 40 degrees (F). Clean the coils. Keep the refrigerator stocked; it takes more energy to cool an empty refrigerator.
     
  • Consider replacing your older model refrigerator, especially if older than 10 years. Older models can often use over 3 times the energy of newer models.
     
  • Close your fireplace damper and seal the opening shut when not in use.
     
  • During the heating season, open south-facing window coverings (e.g. drapes, blinds, etc.) during the day. Close all window coverings at night to keep the heat in.
     
  • Shut off lights, computers and other electronic appliances when you’re not using them. Many computer monitors have a sleep mode setting which, when activated, greatly reduces energy consumption.
     
  • Visit www.energysavers.gov for more energy-saving ideas.