Energy Efficiency tips for new and older homes

• 1. The sun in Arizona will move drastically on the horizon as our two seasons, summer and winter come and go.  Get to know your home before you make too many landscaping and exterior descisions.  Try to face the majority of your windows to the North when you are having a new home built and consider exterior window coverings right away.
  2. Consider thick desert trees such as mesquite trees that will withstand local storms but offer a beautiful thick canopy for shade when well watered.
  3. Although it may be a burden consider some grass, if you association will allow it, in a portion of your yard.  Our homes in Arizona are usually slab homes setting on the hard desert floor surrounded by stone and concrete.  Heat will radiate to you slab through the ground and some grass or small hedge and bush rows will help keep the exterior of your home cooler.
  4. Telephone local utility companies such as APS, SRP, and the Maricopa Water District to learn about energy saving programs, rewards, and ideas before moving into your new home.  Also visit the various botanical gardens the area has to offer who can help educate you on landscaping options and water conservation for the desert.