Grown on trellises, vines can shade windows or the whole side of a house. Orientation of the house and surrounding landscaping has a large effect on energy consumption. Fences, walls, other nearby buildings and rows of trees or shrubs block or channel the wind. Bodies of water moderate temperature but increase humidity and produce glare. Trees provide shade, windbreaks and wind channels.
Pavement reflects or absorbs heat, depending on whether it is light or dark in color.
Lighting Increasing your lighting efficiency is one of the fastest ways to decrease your bills. Fluorescent lamps are much more efficient than incandescent bulbs and last six to ten times longer. Although fluorescent and compact fluorescent lamps are more expensive than incandescent bulbs, they pay for themselves by saving over their lifetime. Both lights are much more efficient than their incandescent counterparts. Use CFLs in all the portable table and floor lamps in your home.