Energy Assessment – Sr. Paula Gonzalez, S.C.- August 25, 2008
Sr. Paula met with Fr. Al, Linda Martin, Steve Amend (maintenance), Patricia Baxter, Steve Wilson, Linda Robbins and Cindy Lewis for an energy assessment of the Catholic Center.
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Insulation Sr, Paula started with some general observations. The outside brick walls make insulation difficult. Patricia pointed out that that the double brick provides good insulation Most of the windows are new double pane which have the added advantage of being tight against the edges. The old unused windows can be caulked shut. An indoor shutter can be added for increased R value (resistance to heat flow). She recommends insulation of top floor ceiling.
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Lighting: Change to CFL lighting where ever possible The large 40 ft florescent lights can be changed to T- 32 watt fluorescents. Ballasts can be changed to electronic ballasts without changing fixtures. She says that the amount of mercury in CFL is minute. LED (light emitting diods) are the best but are not available on a large scale. We have separately controlled light switches in most rooms. Turn off lights except where you are using them. Use outside lighting where possible.
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Heating- We have steam heat in the Catholic Center with locally controlled thermostats. Most of the pipes are insulated .Sr. Paula thought that this was very energy efficient
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Renewable Energy- Sister noted that these were long term issues that needed to be prioritized because of cost. Many businesses are putting in solar panels on flat roofs. Solar panels for hot water or for a limited space (i.e kitchen) can be economical and educational. Wind power is not very practical in Ohio.
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Water Usage Change to 1.6 gallon toilets. Most of our most used toilets are new and water efficient.
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Refrigeration. On old refrigerators, us a Kill-A-Watt machine to check for leakage. Combine food if you have multiple refrigerators
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Garbage Disposal. Consider composting vegetables and other non-meat food.
Some specific suggestions for our parish
· Turn off computers or at least monitors when not in use. (Monitors use the most energy)
· Stop using throwaways for coffee and doughnuts.
· Use fewer pesticides on the grounds
· Rain barrels can be put at end of spouts to=2 0catch rainwater for plants
· Use non-polluting cleaning supplies –a little goes a long way and saves money
· Change the old windows in the chapel as it gets used the most.
· Put in T-32 lights in game room; set up separate light switches
· Eliminate icemaker in the kitchen
Overall, Sr. Paula felt that the Catholic Center was in much better energy shape than most buildin gs its age. The renovation done by Fr. Len Fecko in 12 years ago deserves the credit. The heating system is underground and quite efficient.
Longer range we could consider using solar power for a small area such as the kitchen. She would be willing to consult with us if we decide to air-condition more rooms or build any more space.
Most importantly, Sr. Paula stressed the spiritual part of “environmental” efforts. Care for our world in crisis is an essential part of our spiritual journey. She encouraged the pastoral team and the green team to emphasize the spiritual dimension