November 30, 2007

Shopping for Energy-Saving Holiday Gifts

By Kate Davey
Special to the Times

When it comes to your holiday shopping list, why not include energy-saving gifts? They keep giving year round in monetary savings, as well as help preserve the environment. And choices include unique, fun gifts. So as you shop for the perfect gift, consider these options:

ENERGY STAR® Products
To earn the ENERGY STAR label, products must meet strict energy efficiency criteria set by a U.S. government program. As such, they help reduce wasted energy and save money. What they don't do is sacrifice on quality features and performance.

What kind of energy-saving products are available to choose from? Here is a quick sampling:

• Home Electronics - The list includes televisions, VCRs, DVDs, cordless phones, answering devices, CD players, and other home audio equipment.

• Computers - ENERGY STAR computer equipment has special power management features that save energy. Select among computers, monitors, scanners and printers.

• Lighting - Energy bill savings dramatically increase with more efficient lighting. And, no, you don't have to stuff stockings with compact fluorescent bulbs (unless you want to). A nice ceiling fan/light combination or table, floor or desk lamps make great gifts.

Solar Products
When you give items that are powered by the sun, you help reduce dependence on electricity and batteries. And you make the recipient's day with a nifty holiday gift. Ideas include:

• Chargers- Solar battery chargers are available for many popular gadgets such as cell phones, iPods, Blackberry devices, or personal digital assistants (PDAs).

• Backpacks - Outdoor enthusiasts or students will appreciate a backpack with a solar charging module and multiple pockets for digital and other electronic devices.

• Toys - The kids on your gift list can gain an early appreciation for renewable energy when receiving solar toys that range from radios to robots.

Have fun with your holiday shopping, and shop wisely and safely. My best wishes to you and your family during the upcoming holiday season!

Kate Davey & Associates offers a full array of Real Estate Services and information on every facet of the Real Estate Industry. From Selling to Buying a Home or from Home Improvement to Home Safety, Kate Davey & Associates provides a full concierge service. If you have a specific question, please call Kate at 408-497-5283 or email your question to: info@katedaveyteam.com.

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