Energy Saving

Learn about home energy ratings with Kyle Brown, Building Science Program Manager for Home Energy Partners in Asheville, North Carolina.

If you want your home to be extremely energy efficient, then fill in all of your windows so you have only solid walls. I kid. But there's no arguing that windows are the "weakest link" in the construction of a wall. But we love a good view - so what to do? Installing vinyl replacement windows is not always the most eco-friendly or...

Most of us are comfortable with incandescent bulbs - you know, the classic light bulb shape that emits warm, orange-y light. However, they are big energy wasters when compared with CFLs or LEDs, new lighting options that are the result of great advances in science and technology. But don't forget the most basic, cheapest and most efficient of...

LED for the Home - Q & A with Dr. Stephen Shephard

If you can't afford a wind turbine, that doesn't mean you have to feel guilty. You can buy peace of mind in the form of Renewable Energy Certificates.

Though we're almost always surrounded with modern technology, especially when it comes to the building systems that condition our homes, it's possible a renovate in a way that works with nature rather than against it. Common sense should guide your green home renovation; implement passive design techniques to slash your energy costs.

Ready to ditch that space-hogging hot water tank? Opt for a compact and energy efficient tankless version.

Heat rises, so it makes scientific sense that a warm floor equals a warm room. Learn about radiant floor technology.

The electric bills you receive during the summer months are probably the highest of the year, thanks to your air conditioner. If yours is on its last leg or you've just moved into a new apartment and need a window unit, learn how to calculate the proper size. A properly sized AC rewards you with energy savings all summer long.

With all the advertisements promising to slash your energy bills if you invest in new replacement windows, your drafty old windows aren't looking so good anymore. However, a house-worth of new windows is a big investment. Should you replace your windows or is it better to make do with the ones you have?

Would you be more likely to go ahead and buy that new central air conditioning system or invest in solar panels for your home if you were offered a 30% discount? If you complete these home energy efficiency improvements before then end of 2010, you can receive exactly that much in the form of tax credits. Learn which improvements qualify and which don't.

Your heating system may be working overtime because your home is leaking valuable heat. By beefing up your insulation, you can save on your energy bills. And the best part? Insulation is pretty cheap!

Is your home leaking money each month? Seemingly minor issues such as air leaks, outdated appliances and inadequate insulation could be costing you. Conduct a home energy audit or hire a professional in order to renovate smart.

You may have tried LED holiday lighting, but have you considered using LEDs to light your home year-round? I explore the pros and cons of LEDs and pinpoint the best lighting strategies you can implement now and still stick to your green renovation budget.

You can't resist buying the coolest new cell phone, laptop or Blu-ray player, but do you own the latest in green home technology? These five gadgets will help you conduct your own home energy audit , save on your water bill and identify areas to tighten your home's envelope.

Have a room with no access to natural light? When windows or skylights aren't an option, consider installing a sun tube to cut your lighting costs.

You don't have to understand the science behind photovoltaic panels, but it's beneficial to grasp the basic facts surrounding solar power.

Not his, yours or theirs: HERS. It's another green rating system for your home.

"Hot water heater" conjures images of a huge tank that runs out of hot water before your shower is over. Fortunately, there are a couple of other...

Fluorescent lighting carries a certain stigma. If you think it's not appropriate to light your home, think again. CFLs will save on energy without creating an unflattering atmosphere.

Expanding your current home to suit your family's growing needs might be more economical than selling and purchasing a new home. It's certainly a better move environmentally if you approach the addition process in an energy- and material-conscious way.

Low-e film can make your existing windows more energy efficient if you can't afford to replace them. No matter what type of climate you live in, window insulation film proves a cost-effective solution.

Windows are the traditional source of natural light for a home. We offer several other daylighting strategies to lower your energy costs and enhance the architecture of your home.

Have you ever thought that improving your home's energy efficiency and 'green-ness' would be easier if everything you needed came in one box? That's the idea behind Boost Home's nine different Boost Boxes. Green every room in your home, one box at a time.

Imagine receiving a check from your power company. If Net Energy Metering (NEM) is available in your area and you've installed a home renewable energy system, it could happen!

Time for a new fridge or furnace? Don't settle for the first model you come across! Read our guide to efficient appliances to aid you in making the right choice.

Can a material contain energy? In a way, yes. Learn more about the embodied energy of common building materials.

Summer is a welcome season, but increased bills from running your AC can but a damper on your fun. We offer a few strategies to summer-proof your home.

Do you know what a blower door test is all about? Learn what it is and why you should conduct one to improve energy efficiency.

A passive house is a good thing. Learn how to apply these design strategies to your home to save on energy bills.

It's not all about the bulb. In order to really save energy, you must consider the design of your home's lighting system. Follow these tips to maximize it.

Obviously you shouldn't turn on the water and walk away while brushing your teeth. However, there are several remodeling projects that can result in lower water use around your home. They won't even disrupt your lifestyle.

Learn how to go green on every aspect of your home's exterior.

The WaterSense label helps you identify bathroom fixture that will help you save water.

You don't have to replace your roof to improve its energy efficiency. We examine the four aspects of rooftop sustainability.

Which direction should the vapor retarder be in knee walls? What if I put it in the wrong direction?

What's the best batt insulation for 2x4 walls?