going green: Are Tankless Water Heaters Really Green?
- 07/26/10 03:49 AM
Instant water heaters don't have the standby losses of storage units, but when the result is an 'endless supply of hot water' real savings are dubious.
Tankless water heaters have one advantage over conventional storage units: no standby losses. Instead of keeping water hot around the clock, regardless of whether it's actually needed, tankless units heat water only when a tap or an appliance is turned on. By rights, this should mean lower energy consumption, a decidedly green advantage. But where are the savings when you can't get your kids out of the shower? "I know we waste more water, … (5 comments)
going green: MORE ABOUT OUTDOOR ADD-ONS
- 07/21/10 03:35 AM
LAYOUT/SPACE PLANNING SiteDisturb the site as little as possible. Modify landscaping to improve solar access. Choose porous surfaces to improve water infiltration and reduce runoff. Reduce the size of the lawn and choose plantings that don't need extra water, weed killers or insecticides. Consider a rainwater collection system (even a simple one) for garden and yard use. Where possible, make room for a vegetable garden. Outdoor structuresTry to reuse existing materials. Consider a ground-level patio rather than a wood deck (it lasts longer with less maintenance). Use environmentally friendly materials. When building a deck, detail the connection between the house and … (0 comments)
going green: Remodel Project: Outdoor Add-Ons
- 07/21/10 03:33 AM
A Good Design Can Have High Utility and Low Environmental Impact Use Durable Materials Improving outdoor living spaces can bring many rewards to homeowners, not least of which is a closer connection to natural surroundings. Landscaping and gardening don't have to be expensive, but remember that durable and green materials are key when building for the outdoors. Outdoor rooms increase a home's livabilityAppealing outdoor spaces can relieve pressure on a home's interior. For example, a covered porch may reduce the need for enlarging indoor entertainment areas. An outdoor kitchen can help lower cooling bills in warmer weather. Outdoor designs can include … (0 comments)
going green: GREEN BUILDING TIP: Test Your HVAC System
- 06/28/10 03:37 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)
going green: 10 Ways to Cut Utility Bills
- 06/27/10 06:29 AM
Here's a ten-step program that's guaranteed to reduce your utility costs. The steps are not set in stone; every house is different, and different climates may dictate different strategies, which will be determined as soon as you take the first step. 1. Get a home energy auditBefore beginning any energy retrofit work, have a home energy audit done to identify and prioritize problem areas.A good home energy audit always includes a blower-door test. To be sure your auditor is well trained, choose one certified by RESNET or BPI.The audit can cost as much as $600. Subsidies are available from some utilities and … (4 comments)
going green: Vacation Tips: Why waste watts when you’re away? Send your home appliances on vacation, too.
- 06/19/10 06:16 AM
Before you leave on vacation, take a few minutes to turn off and unplug equipment. You'll save energy and avoid safety hazards. You might want to read your meter before you leave and when you return - it's a good way to spot any hidden energy wasters. What to unplug, turn off or turn down before leaving LightsTurn off all lights except for one or two. Unless these lights are compact fluorescents, put them on timers that can be set to random patterns to discourage potential prowlers. Photo sensors or motion detectors are good ideas for outdoor lights. Air conditioningTurn it … (4 comments)
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Instant water heaters don't have the standby losses of storage units, but when the result is an 'endless supply of hot water' real savings are dubious.
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