Energy Conservation Practices in Alabama Residences

Abstract

The reduction of energy costs related to heating homes is a concern of consumers. Interior designers are challenged to help their clients solve this problem in creative and aesthetically pleasing ways. It is important for designers to know what steps clients have taken to make homes more energy efficient. Such knowledge can provide a basis for interior design solutions which may not have been considered by clients. A random survey of 445 Alabama households showed the majority of homes were heated by either natural gas or electricity. Supplementary heat was used by one‐third of the residents and one‐third had added insulation. The most common method of conserving energy was to reduce thermostat settings. It was concluded that many clients have taken basic steps toward conserving energy. To realize additional savings professional knowledge of interior designers will be required.