What Are Some Green Energy Saving Ideas?
The recent demand in both green building and energy saving products has provided plenty of new green building materials and products designed to help a home become more energy efficient. Below is a list of both materials and products that are commonly used in new green homes today.
Foam insulation reduces energy costs by preventing air from seeping in and out of your house. Foam insulation is sprayed on unlike the traditional rolls of fiberglass insulation. To learn more about foam insulation, where it can be purchased, and associated costs, visit www.fomo.com/handi-foam.aspx or www.touch-n-seal.com.
Solar powered attic fans help to circulate the warm air in an attic in order to reduce the overall home’s temperature. Solar power fans will not place a burden on either your electric bill or on the environment. For more information on where to buy solar attic fans, visit Solatube’s website – www.solatube.com/residential/solarstar.php.
Energy Star appliances on average use 40 percent less energy passing the savings on to the homeowner. Energy Star certified homes are all built standard with Energy Star appliances which range from refrigerators, ovens, stoves, microwaves, dishwashers, washing machines, and dryers. Visit EnergyStar.gov for more details.
Double paned windows are additional energy saving products that work by preventing the sun’s heat from penetrating the house, while at the same time keeping the cool air in; or vice versa if you live in a cold climate. A great resource to learn more is Efficient Windows – www.efficientwindows.org/energycosts.cfm.
Air conditioner units can play a big role in reducing utility costs. A 14-SEER air conditioner provides as much as 42 percent better energy efficiency over a conventional 8-SEER air conditioner. Learn more about heating and cooling systems by visiting www.residential.carrier.com/knowledge/efficiency/ratings.shtml.
Solar attic fans are a great way to go when it comes to trying to be green, especially since they qualify for the government tax credit this year. If your looking for more information about them in general I posted a link that I used before buying mine, most comprehensive source I’ve found so far.
I don’t hear much plug for geothermal Heat and Air conditioning. It is super efficient, has new 30% tax credit, and some states give additional credits. Yes, it is a mess to install in the yard for wells. On the east coast here we use verticle 450 foot deep wells, but it is a great green application.
Going with the energy efficient windows is a great way to save money and get and help the environment at the same time!
Many products that are energy efficient are going to be a plus when added to a home. Furthermore, investing in solar energy and other renewable energy sources will serve useful for the life of the home (and beyond).