These are some general steps that you can take when remodeling… things you should keep in mind throughout:
Energy Audits-
To make sure that your impact on your savings is as great as your improved impact on the planet, an energy audit can help you find the places where you are using the mostenergy. Offered through utility companies and private companies you can find our where you can get the most bang for your dollar. The audit can last up to a few hours. The can range in price for $ 0-700.
You can also find a do it yourself audit at: Department of energy’s Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy Website
Compact Fluorescent Light bulbs-
For just a few $$$ investment you can reap significant returns by replacing your old incandescent bulbs with compact fluorescents. The offset savings come from the life expectancy of the bulb and the energy savings. The bulbs use less that a third of the energy of a typical bulb while producing the same amount of light. They also give off much less heat.
Programable Thermostats-
Have a thermostat that automatically adjusts to a few degrees; cooler or warmer depending on the season, while you are out of the house or sleeping can result in big savings on your heating/cooling bill.
Low or No VOC Paints-
Many paints and varnishes release volatile organic compounds or VOC’s which are dangerous not only to the environment but also to you health. When possible look for low- or-NO VOC products. To meet the EPA standards, low VOC’s paints must have less than 200 grams of VOC’s per liter. Many have even less- –but sometimes the claims in big print on the paints do not match up to these standards— SO REMEMBER TO READ THE FINE PRINT!
Insulation-
A poorly insulated house – particularly in the attic spaces can mean that a lot of the money spent on heating or cooling are just being released to the heavens. Up to a third of all of the home’s heating and cooling is lost through the attic and another 25% through the walls. While all properly installed insulation will improve your energy efficiency consider recycled cotton insulation as a green option.
Windows
New windows can be pricey but a combination of taz credits and energy savings can help offset the cost. Double or even triple paned windows will do a great job preventing drafts and reducing your energy costs. If you do not upgrade your windows, be sure to make your current windows as well sealed as possible. this alone will make a difference in energy loss.
