Some consider it to be simply conserving energy, while others say it is recycling materials removed from a home so they don't end up in landfills. Yet, others worry about indoor air quality. In reality, it's a combination of all three, and even more, encompassing the selection of sustainable materials and local products to reduce the impact on the environment.
As the scope of the issue is so large, it's difficult to know where to begin. Add to that a wealth of confusing terminology and homeowners can become totally confused. With careful consideration, however, homeowners can make their houses greener, no matter what the project. It's as simple as getting an assessment.
Discover Where Energy Leaks Occur
Start with an energy audit which includes a blower door test and thermal scan. What this test will do is indicate where a house is leaking energy and outline a game plan on how to tighten it up.
Amazingly, one spot that leaks the most is a home's box ribbon, or the area around the perimeter where the basement walls begin to rise above the ground. The most efficient insulation is made of foam, which must be blown into the area where it will be installed.
Foam insulation is a water-blown product that is made of a soybean mixture. It seals every nook and cranny, which is key to proper insulation.
Windows are another place where leaks often occur, particularly those in the basement just below grad level. These have the weakest seals. Check for signs of rot and mildew annually, as well as the condition of caulking. All of these conditions can product window leaks. Homeowners can also retrofit their windows with a flashing kit by DuPont Tyvek that seals leaks.
Make sure to check insulation throughout the house. Most homes have fiberglass insulation which merely filters out air. The aforementioned foam insulation, although more expensive, is much more energy efficient. Foam insulation should also be blown into the attic, but take care to make sure the area is properly ventilated.
Compare Products for Energy Efficiency
When choosing a new appliance, consult the rating system listed by the National Association of Home Builders and Remodelers for a number of different products.This site recommends grades of material for environmental systems such as air conditioners, as well as the energy efficiency of various appliances. New appliances come with an Efficiency rating from Energy Star, a U.S. government program designed to help people save money as well as protect the environment. When choosing air conditioning systems look for those rated 13 SEER or above.
Go Beyond Building Code
Building code as written by all communities, is a minimum. Go beyond that to find energy and green efficiency. Also consider how old your home is. Standards have increased dramatically in recent years.Twenty years ago R-19 insulation was commonly installed above ceilings. Now the minimum in many areas is R-38.
Reduce Electrical Use
Another simple area where you can reduce your home's carbon footprint is the electrical system. For starters, swtch your old-fashioned light bulbs to compact florescent lamps, also known as CFLs. Those are the spiral bulbs one sees in the store. But for even greater energy savings try LED lamps fo recessed lighting.
For individuals who leave lights on all the time, take care of that problem with a motion detector. Dimmers can also save on electrcl bills as well as extend the life of light bulbs. A simple $8 to 15 swtch can save you tenfold in utility bills.
Conserve Water with New Plumbing Fixtures
Plumbing is another area where green can make a difference, not only in the amount of water used, but in the amoung of energy expended. Think dual flush tolets for different waste needs. Depending on the need, press one button or another and get the approprate amoung of water for a flush.
Another toiletry product gaining prominence is the waterless home urinal as well as an automatic flush toilet. Some automatic toilets also include a bidet which elimnates the need for toilet paper.
One item that will gve a quick return is a solar hot water heater. not only will it save energy costs, these appliances are also eligible for energy tax credits. Think a solar unit may be too expensive? Then try a tankless unit, which is the size of two shoe boxes.
Don't Forget to Recycle
The days of havng a contractor place a dumpster in front of a house to collect all the scraps and old material are numbered. What green-minded constrctors engage n now is called deconstruction. This is where they carefully remove and take apart old cabinetry, countertops, flooring, piping, etc., and take it to an approprate fcility where it can be recycled or re-engineeered into another use.
These steps may seem small, but performing all adds up and will reduce the carbon footprint left by the average homeowner.
Arlene Miles - Versatile. That's how I describe myself and my writing in one word. I have 30 years' experience in various forms of media with most ...
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