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green homes: Without realistic “comps” that properly value energy-saving features, obtaining a home loan may be difficult - 09/13/10 10:32 AM
Passive solar designs that include generous amounts of insulation can save homeowners a great deal of money in operating costs over the life of the house. But getting banks to approve loans that reflect somewhat higher construction costs can be a struggle, sometimes forcing builders to dial back their plans and deliver a less efficient house.
This dilemma was at the heart of a question from a green builder and the topic of this week's Q&A Spotlight.
Danny Kelly was trying to build a house that would qualify for a Gold or Emerald rating from the National Green Building Standard. It … (0 comments)

green homes: Four steps to green remodeling - 07/20/10 10:48 AM
Step 1: Get an energy audit
Making a remodeled house more energy efficient should be a top priority, and coming up with a plan begins with an energy audit. The beauty of this relatively inexpensive battery of scientific tests is that it will pinpoint and measure a house's energy deficiencies. A detailed inspection will uncover air leaks, equipment inefficiencies, inadequate insulation and other structural shortcomings that together add up to a drafty, uncomfortable and ultimately wasteful house.
Energy audits range from unscientific walk-throughs taking a few hours to more detailed examinations aided by diagnostic equipment. Utilities may provide them for free.
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green homes: GREEN BUILDING TIP: Test Your HVAC System - 06/28/10 10:37 AM
Even well-designed mechanical systems can become sources of indoor air quality problems (or can waste energy) if they are incorrectly installed, so it's important to make sure heating and cooling systems work as designed before the house is occupied. It's critical to test the systems (including duct work) before anyone moves into the house. That's almost always cheaper than dealing with the equipment after problems become obvious.
This testing - sometimes called "commissioning" - should follow the "TAB" approach: test, adjust, balance.
For homes with a forced-air system, it's essential to check:
Air flow at each register Overall duct system tightness … (0 comments)

green homes: Pillar To Post: Easy Ways to Green Your Home - 09/15/08 12:48 PM

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Chris Livingston

Portland, OR

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