(Family Features) When you’re considering upgrades for your home, earth-friendly enhancements that impact your energy usage are smart investments. Energy-saving home upgrades can offer long- and short-term advantages for the earth, your wallet and even your safety.

Many homeowners evaluate their energy needs as they plan home improvements. There are several low-carbon, resilient energy options available that can help safeguard your family. Consider these environmentally friendly upgrades to diversify your home’s energy sources, reduce energy consumption and ensure your home is well-prepared to withstand interruptions to power service if the electrical grid fails.

Diversify Energy Sources
The growing conversation to “electrify everything” will require an overhaul on the aging electric grid just to manage the increase in demand. Accomplishing this will take decades and cost billions, according to the Department of Energy. In fact, according to a study conducted by Acupoll Precision Research on behalf of the Propane Education & Research Council (PERC), 54% of respondents believe electricity for everything will be too expensive for taxpayers while 70% strongly agree Americans should have a choice when it comes to their energy source. Propane is a clean, affordable and abundant energy option that reduces carbon emissions right now. Using propane appliances like furnaces, water heaters, fireplaces and kitchen appliances alongside other energy sources reduces the strain on the fragile electrical grid. Unlike electric appliances, propane appliances can work even during power outages.

Seal In Energy
Outdated doors and windows often lack energy benefits. Newer models have stronger, thicker panes that reduce the transfer of heat from inside to outdoors (and vice versa in the warmer months). Updating doors and windows allows you to easily repair any cracks or faulty seals that make it easy for energy to escape. When your home is well-insulated, your heating or cooling system works more efficiently.

Consider Solar Panels
When many homeowners think of renewable energy, they often think “solar.” Some states are mandating solar adoption, and while financial rebates help, solar panels are still considered an expensive upgrade for many people. The number of panels you need depends on your geographic location and weather, as well as the size of your home and your family’s energy consumption habits, which can add up. If you have access to propane and electricity, and are planning to upgrade to solar, consider adding propane appliances to offset the energy load required from your solar system.

Install a Backup Power Source
The Department of Energy’s “Electric Disturbance Event Annual Report” showed an increase in power outages from 2000 to 2020. More than half of consumers nationwide indicated they or a close family member or friend have been personally impacted by a power outage in the past two years, according to PERC.

As a result, many homeowners are saying “yes” to backup power generators. A propane standby generator can be a key part of resilient home upgrades by offering supplemental electricity in as little as 10 seconds after an outage. Propane doesn’t degrade over time, making it an ideal standby power fuel. Plus, it’s cleaner than diesel so you can keep your home functioning and family safe while being a good steward for the environment.

Increase Energy Efficiency
While landscaping plays an important role in curb appeal, it also serves more practical purposes. Thoughtfully placed trees and shrubs can block the heat that comes from powerful direct sunlight while serving as a break against blustery winds and providing a natural form of external insulation for the home. In outdoor living spaces, propane-powered appliances can offer increased energy efficiency. For example, propane can power full outdoor kitchens, fireplaces and fire pits, patio heaters, flame lighting or pool and spa heaters.

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Find more ideas and information to inspire your earth-friendly home upgrades at Propane.com.

When the Grid Fails

In 2021, a winter storm decimated a major electrical power grid, leaving thousands of Americans in the dark and cold. Some people lost their lives while others battled to overcome extensive damage to their homes and businesses.

Jennifer Borget’s family is one of many that weathered those winter storms. However, the Borget family home used propane to power their water heater, stove, furnace and fireplace.

“When your power goes out, you can still use some propane appliances,” said Borget, who blogged about her experience. “This is one of those things I didn’t realize but learned during the historic winter storms. When the power was intermittent, our propane-powered fireplace and water heater quickly warmed our family.”

One year later, the Borgets are discussing investing in a standby generator to mitigate future power outages.

Another way to reduce the risk of large-scale disasters is increasing Americans’ reliance on a broader mix of energy sources. Using a combination of propane, solar, electricity and natural gas can keep homes and businesses alike running efficiently and safely.

Relying on alternative energy sources like propane can also make a meaningful environmental impact in the long-term while offering short-term advantages, including continued access to power during emergencies when another energy source fails.

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SOURCE:
Propane Education & Research Council

(Joan Casanova) In neighborhoods across the country, homeowners are getting extra help in their quest for the elusive, perfect lawn.

The secret? An innovation in grass seed technology known as OptiGrowth, promising faster, stronger and more resilient grass – and it’s living up to the hype.

What is the Technology?
A revolutionary, natural seed treatment, OptiGrowth is a unique technology designed to enhance the performance of grass seed, giving it a higher chance of success. It coats traditional grass seed in a protective, moisture-attracting layer designed to retain moisture and kickstart healthy growth without harming the environment.

Developed through years of agricultural research, this technology enhances the natural germination process, giving each seed a better chance to sprout, grow and survive early, tough conditions. It uses water more efficiently, develops stronger roots and shoots, and helps seeds survive in drought, poor soil conditions and extreme temperatures.

Unlike traditional uncoated grass seed, which can struggle in less-than-ideal soil conditions or unpredictable weather, seed treated with this technology is designed to thrive. It’s not genetically modified; instead, it’s a smarter version of existing seeds, treated to improve their natural abilities, which leads to faster growth, better health and a thicker, more resilient lawn.

Faster-Growing, Healthier Lawns
One of the biggest advantages of this coated seed is speed. Under ideal conditions, these seeds may germinate faster than untreated seeds. The faster sprouting reduces the vulnerable window when new grass can be overtaken by weeds, dried out by sun or washed away by heavy rains.

Grass seedlings also emerge healthier and develop deeper roots more quickly, setting the stage for a thicker, more resilient lawn. In the early stages, when most lawn failures happen, OptiGrowth seed can better resist stresses like drought, heat and foot traffic.

“New grass is incredibly delicate,” said Troy Hake, owner of Outsidepride.com, an online seed company specializing in a wide variety of high-quality grass seed, flower seeds and lawn and garden-related products at competitive prices. “OptiGrowth provides seeds with a built-in advantage: helping more seed survive and thrive. It’s like giving each seed its own personal water bottle and first-aid kit.”

Water Efficiency is a Key Advantage
As water conservation becomes increasingly important, another major benefit of this seed is improved water usage. The seed coating absorbs and retains moisture more efficiently around each seed, so homeowners can water less during the critical establishment period when the seed is most vulnerable to drying out. The moisture-holding properties ensure the seed remains hydrated for longer periods, helping it sprout and establish strong roots.

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In trials conducted by several university agricultural departments, lawns seeded with OptiGrowth needed up to 30% less water to reach full establishment compared to lawns planted with traditional seed.

“For areas prone to drought or watering restrictions, that’s a major win – both for homeowners’ wallets and the environment,” Hake said.

When Utilizing the Technology Makes Sense
While the coated seed is effective in almost any planting situation, it’s especially beneficial in challenging conditions. The coating acts as a shield, protecting the seed from stresses such as temperature fluctuations, heavy rains and dry spells. New lawns on sloped ground, areas with patchy sun and shade, or lawns planted in late spring or early fall – times when weather can be unpredictable – benefit the most.

These seeds are designed to succeed even when conditions aren’t ideal by improving moisture retention and boosting germination rates. This means less time reseeding, rewatering and repairing your lawn.

However, Hake notes that in perfect conditions – rich soil, regular rain, mild temperatures –
traditional high-quality grass seed can still perform well.

“If you’re planting in ideal conditions and you can baby the lawn with watering and care, you might not need OptiGrowth,” Hake said. “But in most cases, perfect conditions are rare.”

A Greener Future
As innovations like OptiGrowth make their way into more products, it’s clear the future of lawn care is working smarter, not harder. These seeds have a built-in advantage – they grow faster, stay hydrated better, have fewer bald spots, require less reseeding and survive tougher conditions, leading to a greener, healthier lawn requiring less effort from you.

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For more information, visit outsidepride.com.

Photos courtesy of Outsidepride.com

SOURCE:

Outsidepride.com

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – In a move that signifies its dedication to customer satisfaction and value, Nissan has announced significant reductions in the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Prices (MSRP) for two of its most popular models, the 2025 Rogue and 2025 Pathfinder. This strategic decision comes at a time when many consumers are navigating a challenging car-buying landscape, making affordability a key factor in their purchasing decisions.

Lower Prices for Greater Accessibility

The pricing adjustments span across all grades for both the Rogue and Pathfinder, reflecting Nissan’s commitment to ensuring that more customers can access quality vehicles without straining their budget. With rising costs affecting many households, these reductions are not just a reactive measure but a proactive step in continuing to provide exceptional value.

The 2025 Rogue, known for its versatility and efficient performance, will now appeal even more to families and individuals alike who prioritize both style and functionality in their vehicles. Meanwhile, the Pathfinder, a reliable and spacious SUV, caters to those needing extra room for travel, adventures, or daily commutes.

Why This Matters

For many buyers, feeling secure about their investment in a vehicle is paramount, especially when purchasing in today’s economic climate. By lowering the MSRP, Nissan aims to make the Rogue and Pathfinder not only more accessible but also more appealing as options in the competitive SUV market.

The decision to reduce prices aligns with Nissan’s larger strategy to maintain its customer-centric approach, fostering long-term relationships with buyers by ensuring they receive value for their investment.

What to Expect

As detailed in Nissan’s recent press release, prospective buyers can look forward to more competitive pricing as they explore their options. The enhanced value proposition of the 2025 Rogue and Pathfinder aims to provide customers with quality vehicles that meet their needs without compromising on features or reliability.

While specific pricing details were not fully disclosed in the press release, interested customers are encouraged to visit their local dealerships or check the official Nissan website for the latest updates and MSRP listings.

Conclusion

With the 2025 Rogue and Pathfinder, Nissan is not just reducing prices; it’s reaffirming its commitment to providing accessible, quality vehicles for all. By prioritizing affordability, Nissan continues to lead the way in understanding and addressing the needs of its customers in a rapidly changing market.

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Stay updated on further developments and insights as Nissan continues to innovate and respond to the needs of car buyers everywhere. Whether you’re in the market for a spacious family SUV or a versatile crossover, Nissan’s latest offerings provide a compelling reason to consider these models.

Related link:

https://usa.nissannews.com/en-US/releases/nissan-reduces-pricing-for-2025-rogue-pathfinder

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