Energy Efficiency for the Eco Home and Green Buildings: An Insider's Guide

Call it an eco home, green building or energy efficient homes, they amount to one element. The point is to reduce utility bills. You don't want to add alternative energy to an eco home, green building or energy efficient homes until buildings are tight. Once energy efficiency is established, then add alternative energy features.

Energy Efficiency: Eco Home, Green Buildings and Energy Efficient Homes

According to Ron Clark, the best investment for an Eco Home, Green Building or Energy Efficient Homes is energy efficiency. Alternative energy isn't effective if there are leaks. Most homes leak at a rate of 30-50%.

There are three types:

Convection: recessed lights, electric sockets and doggie doors.
Conduction: single pane windows conduct heat.
Radiation: single pane windows draw body heat.

Caulking and weatherproofing is not enough to seal buildings. The Blower Door Test locates leaks and air quality with a 25% return on your investment.

First Step for Eco Home, Green Building or Energy Efficient Homes

In another article, I recommend neighbors look at the sustainability of their neighborhood. Then, purchase materials together for discounts for improvements. Approach the Bower Door Test contractor together for reduced rates for an Eco Home, Green Building or Energy Efficient Homes.

Second Step for Eco Home, Green Building or Energy Efficient Homes

Mr. Clark says air sealing is simple but the trick is to know where leaks are. After the test, either the contractor or building owner can tighten the building.

Third Step for Eco Home, Green Building or Energy Efficient Homes

When Mr. Clark seals buildings, he checks leakage hourly. Buildings need to breathe because:

1. Indoor air quality
2. Combustible appliances within the pressure envelope compete for air

For example, dad comes home and takes a shower with the exhaust fan running. Mom cooks with an exhaust fan and the furnace kicks in at the same time. Flu gases can come back in when this happens. If there is not enough air, combustion can take place.

If building owners fix air leaks, then it is wise to have the Blower Door Test again. The industry slogan is, "seal tight, ventilate right." You want to make sure you have the right air envelope.

Qualifications for Contractors for Eco Home, Green Building or Energy Efficient Homes

Look for RESNET or BPI certifications for professional contractors. And if you consider utility savings plus resale value, you can see this is a good investment for Eco Homes, Green Buildings and Energy Efficient Homes.

Click here to read How to Go Green in One Hour.

Energy Efficiency: Eco Home, Green Buildings and Energy Efficient Homes copyright 2009.