Saving Energy 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 and reduce winter heating costs.  Deciduous trees are recommended for the south and west side of your home. 
 
Shading air conditioning units can increase each unit’s operating efficiency, but landscaping should not obstruct air circulation around the unit. 
 
Trees and shrubs planted close to the foundation of a building create a “dead air” space which reduces cold winter wind currents and slows the escape of heat.  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 10% to 40% energy savings.