Steven Napora © 2009
BobVilaContractors.com
Jacksonville, FL homeowners considering a kitchen renovation often add features such as center islands, stainless steel appliances, and beautiful counter surfaces to their must-have list. However, many remodelers are thinking beyond aesthetics and are wondering how they can make their spaces not only attractive and functional, but also energy efficient. An increasing number of options exist to incorporate eco design into a kitchen redo, like using non-toxic materials, installing natural and sustainable products, or resurfacing existing cabinetry.
Install Efficient Appliances
According to the government, Energy Star-labeled kitchen appliances can use 10-50% less energy than standard products. If upgrading, consider how much space you really need in that refrigerator, since continuously empty space wastes energy. If you're upgrading your kitchen's oven, consider convection products, since these lower cooking times and reduce energy consumption.
Fix or Replace Your Faucets
Cutting water use in your kitchen is a good way to save energy. The new standard for efficiency is no more than 2.5 gallons per minute. Simply installing an aerator can reduce water flow and cut the number of times your hot water heater has to fire up. If your kitchen faucet is very old, replacing it with an efficient model might be the best option.
Put in Efficient Lighting
Using compact fluorescent bulbs in the kitchen is a great way to reduce energy use. Consider installing task lighting, since this allows you to concentrate light just where you need it. Install lighting controls like light dimmer switches, since these allow you to control the amount of light you use to match your needs.
Create the Right Design
Remodeling your kitchen to take advantage of natural light can reduce the amount of time your indoor lights need to be on. Think about replacing your windows and doors with Energy Star products to prevent warm or cold air from escaping. Also, make sure your kitchen design is just large enough for your needs and you'll spend less energy heating, cooling and lighting unused space.
Get a Tax Credit
The stimulus package passed in 2009 gives kitchen remodeling tax credits if you install energy efficient products. Credits can total up to $1500, and more information can found on the Energy Star website (
www.energystar.gov). The credits can really make a kitchen-remodeling project affordable and good for the environment at the same time.
Kitchen remodeling can be overwhelming without a professional to help you to make the right choices. The Jacksonville, FL area has a wide variety of resources to advise you on the many eco-friendly and energy efficient options out there. Finding a local, reputable contractor can save you time and money.
