Energy Saving Trees

Keep cool in the summer and warm in the winter with trees.

The proper location of a tree will improve your home’s energy efficiency. The more summer shade that falls on sun-exposed windows, roofs and walls, the cooler the temperature will be inside the home.

Deciduous trees provide nice shade in the summer and then lose their leaves in the fall, allowing the winter sun to help warm buildings reducing winter heating costs. Deciduous trees are recommended for the south and west side of your home.

Awnings are another great way to reduce the stress on your home’s air conditioning system during the summer months.

Shading air conditioning units can increase each unit’s operating efficiency but landscaping should not obstruct air circulation around the unit. In the summer, this space helps prevent heat gain. Using trees as windbreaks on the north or windy side of your house also helps increase energy efficiency. Evergreen trees provide the best protection, although low branching deciduous trees help, too. By planning your landscape, you can achieve energy savings all year long.

To learn more about how landscaping can save energy, call 509-786-8265.