Most homeowners looking for ways to reduce energy consumption for heating and air conditioning focus on the inside of their homes by adding insulation, reducing air leaks, duct sealing, and installing energy efficient heating and cooling systems. An often overlooked alternative for increased energy efficiency grows outside the home. Landscaping that includes properly positioned trees is a very cost effective means of lowering heating and cooling costs.
Data collected by the Department of Energy shows that well-placed trees can result in a reduction of energy consumption by up to 25%. These savings make landscaping a very cost effective energy efficiency improvement that can pay for itself in about 5 to 10 years. After that, you will enjoy year after year of savings.
Trees that shed their leaves in the winter (deciduous) are particularly suited for saving energy throughout the year. In the summer, shade provided by trees as well as the cooling effect of evapotranspiration have been shown to reduce air conditioning costs by up to 50%.
In the winter, these trees allow sunlight to help warm the home and provide lighting. In addition, the trees act as a windbreak to reduce the wind chill effect resulting in a reduction of energy used for heating of up to one third.
Before you rush out and randomly plant trees, talk to a certified arborist at an Atlanta tree service about selection and placement of the trees for the maximum benefit. A certified arborist can help you select the appropriate size and type tree and provide guidance for locating, planting, and care of the tree to achieve the desired results.
