Saving Energy

“Did you know that OCC manufactures energy saving building products for the roofing, patio, and window shading industries?”

When heat and light enter your home through windows and doors, your air conditioner works harder, resulting in higher energy bills. However, there are some simple things you can do to prevent excessive sunlight from entering your home, which will save you money and make your home more comfortable.

Window shading

If you have windows or glass doors in your home that face east or west, chances are, you’re letting unwanted heat into your home. An easy way to reduce your cooling costs is to shade these areas from the sun. You can do this through:

• Landscaping – helps stop heat before it ever reaches your window.
  • Can be a low-cost, effective option, but may take years to grow.
  • Plan before you plant. Always consider the mature size of trees and palms when planting around your home and near power lines.
• Awnings – help stop heat before it ever reaches your window.
  • Work best when the sun is high in the sky.
  • Shade windows effectively, but not cost effective based on energy savings alone.
• Window coverings – tinted or reflective window film helps reduce the sun’s heat from entering your house.
  • Keep interior shading, such as curtains, blinds or shades closed during the day for greatest efficiency.
  • Shade windows effectively, but not cost effective based on energy savings alone.

Roofs

Whiter roofs reflect more of the sun’s heat and help lower electric bills. When reroofing or building a new home, consider how choice of roof color and material will affect your energy bill.

* Note: Compared to a dark gray shingle roof. Annual air conditioning savings for a 1,770 square foot home.

Florida Power and Light, Residential Building Envelope Trade Ally Standards

Florida Power and Light Building Envelope Improvements

Architects Turn to Cool Metal Roofing in America