“Going green” is a phrase that has gained popularity over the last few years—but it’s not just a trend, it’s a serious movement. More and more people are realizing that by investing in ways to cut down on Energy use throughout their home or business, they not only help reduce their impact on the environment but also cut down on their energy costs.

Many Energy Efficiency investments that may initially seem too expensive can save consumers substantial amounts of money over time. The following are five ways as a green franchise owner that you can help your customers reduce energy use at home or at work, saving a considerable amount of money over the long term.

1. Upgrade Your HVAC System

If you have an older HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) system, you may want to upgrade some of its components to newer, more efficient models. If you’re willing to invest big, consider going solar. Solar power can greatly reduce your energy costs, and the initial expense of a solar power system can be offset by tax credits and other incentives

2. Install Insulation

Insulation can make a huge difference, preventing heat from escaping your home or business and preventing outdoor air from coming in. You should use high-quality insulation in your floors, walls, and ceilings. One place that’s often overlooked is the attic. If you don’t insulate the attic, heat will rise into the attic (where it’s typically not needed) and then escape through the roof, thereby wasting energy.

3. Upgrade Your Windows

The windows on any building have a big impact on energy use. Poor-quality windows allow energy to escape from the building and let in cold or hot air from outdoors. This is why you’ll often feel a cold draft by the windows in your home during winter.

Today, many windows are built with energy efficiency in mind. Some windows have double glass panes to prevent air from passing through. The glass is often coated with low-emissivity film that helps prevent UV rays from passing through without obstructing the view. When the air inside your home remains there, it means your HVAC system doesn’t have to work as hard to replace lost air.

4. Upgrade Your Appliances

Older appliances often use far more energy than newer models. If your appliances are older than ten years, you should seriously consider upgrading them even if they appear to be working fine. Newer models will be far more efficient, whether you’re replacing a stove or a refrigerator. Be sure to look for Energy Star models, which surpass the energy efficiency standards of the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency).

5. Implement an Automation System

Automating your home or business helps improve the efficiency of your building. For example, you can access your lighting, electronic equipment, and appliances from a mobile device, which limits wasted energy. An automation system can also track energy use over time, allowing you to pinpoint where your building is losing energy, which in turn lets you know what types of energy efficiency improvements will have the biggest impact.

Investing in a Green Franchise

These five energy-efficient investments will greatly reduce energy costs at home and at work. If you’re interested in the advancement of energy-efficient technology and want to run a company that provides energy efficiency solutions, then you should consider investing in a green franchise. For information about buying into a green franchise, contact us at SuperGreen Solutions today.

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