Making your home a greener place is a commitment to yourself, your family, your community, and the world. But more than that, it is a learning process. As exciting new technologies, products, and scientific breakthroughs constantly emerge, staying educated on the hows—as well as the whys—of maintaining a green home is the best way to ensure your efforts are as effective and beneficial as possible. More…
CFLs can be a huge energy saver and typically have a much longer life than other bulbs. Changing five of the most frequently used bulbs in your home can save you $100 per year on electric bills. More…
Before you hang the drapes, get those windows up to peak performance. Common leaks occur around windows, doors, and other wall penetrations. Plugging those leaks with weather stripping and caulk, a simple task for anyone, can reduce your energy bill by $100 or more. More…
Next to your refrigerator, your dryer is likely the biggest energy-guzzling appliance in your house. And while we wouldn't ask you to store your food in a vintage icebox, an old-fashioned clothesline is actually a pretty good idea. More…
Cool down and save some cash. No, it's not your imagination—it definitely is getting hotter. The eight warmest years on record occurred over the past decade. But staying cool this summer doesn't necessarily mean you have to pay a fortune to keep the air-conditioning running day and night. More…
A comfy, cozy winter doesn't have to break the bank or be an energy drain. More…
By
Harvey M. Sachs, Ph.D.
The house is a system. You save money and improve performance when you take cost-effective measures that reduce building loads, and then install systems and appliances that are the right size to meet the reduced loads. In general, over-sizing worsens performance and increases costs. More…