I have a large shade tree on the south side of my property that keeps the summer sun off of my mobile home. This shade tree makes such a big difference that I rarely need air conditioning. It's a large cedar, but any fast growing tree will work. If you plant a tree that looses it's leaves in the fall, then you'll still get the benefit of winter sunshine to help heat your home!
By Cyinda from near Seattle
According to the Department of Energy, strategic planting of as few as three trees can provide the average household with an energy savings of between $100-$250 annually. It may be the best long-term investment for reducing heating and cooling costs.
