I Saved Hundreds On Energy Costs And You Can Too

Let’s face it: we can all afford to shave a few bucks off of our monthly our annual budgets. Thriftiness has become more valuable than ever in an economy that appears increasingly unstable. While many corners can be easy to cut, it can be difficult to reduce some costs, particularly for homeowners. However, there is an easy solution to reducing your energy bill that you may not have thought of: planting trees.

Trees, you say? How can trees save me money? Believe it or not, trees are an affordable solution to reducing household costs and don’t require too much effort or money in the way of tree care. Keep reading below to find out how one of our most sustainable resources can end up helping you save more of your household’s hard-earned cash.

If you live in a state with a warm or hot climate, then you know how high your air conditioner can drive your electricity bill. There is an easier way to save than raising your thermostat, however. Trees around your home can provide shade which can help keep your house cool in the warmer months of the year. For example, a single tree can produce in one day the cooling effect of up to ten normal-sized air conditioners. A tree planted on the west side of your home can cut your energy bills by 3% in just five years. While that might not seem like much, just consider that in 15 years the savings will be nearly 12%. Who can’t afford to save 12% on energy costs?

Trees also help during colder months. If you live in a windy area, then trees around your home can create a windbreak which can reduce heating costs between 10% and 15%. Trees can also reduce the noise around your home. If you live in a noisy area such as near a highway, then planting trees can help. In fact, trees can reduce noise pollution by up to 40%. Can you use a little more peace and quiet? I know I can.

Trees do require some bit of tree maintenance, however. Tree care is important to keep trees healthy and ensure that they don’t endanger your home. Don’t worry, however; tree care is easy and affordable. The U.S. Department of Agriculture recommends you prune or trim trees only once per year, usually during winter when trees are dormant. Professional tree care can ensure that you don’t spend a lot of time or injure yourself while trimming trees or performing tree pruning.

Aside from some annual tree care, trees are an effortless way to cut back on your energy costs. What’s more, trees can add value to your home. Property values of homes with trees can be up to 15% higher than those of homes without trees, and often sell quicker. So, can you afford NOT to plant trees? If you’re like me, definitely not. So, go green and save some green: plant a tree today!