Smart Appliances = The Future

A great way to save money on your bills is by using energy star rated appliances.  LG just took it a step further when they unveiled their new smart appliances in their LG THINQ product line.  The link above explains all of the fantastic features that these appliances are capable of, including a smart meter which ensures that the appliances use the minimum amount of energy at the least expensive rates.  Check it out!

Your Guide to Energy Efficient Lighting

Every little step that you can take in gradually making your home more energy efficient adds up to more money you can save.  The link above can give you assistance on which light bulbs you should be using to improve your home's energy efficiency.

A Guide To Understanding Green Buildings

Getting a grasp on everything that goes into making a building "green" can be rather complex.  The article above, A Guide To Understanding Green Buildings, does a good job of breaking down exactly what green buildings are and why it is important for our society to move in that direction.  The link explains several of the bare essentials of green building, including:  energy usage statistics, certification programs, green building features, and how to find a green home.  It is important that we all have a good understanding of green building so that we can make more people aware of how we can improve our environment and become more efficient at the same time.  It will only take a few minutes to read, so check it out!

Arden Environmental Becomes RESNET-Certified

Blake Hayworth, an Arden Environmental energy auditor, has completed all the necessary requirements and training in becoming a RESNET-certified auditor.  RESNET, which stands for Residential Energy Services Network, was established 15 years ago by the National Association of State Energy Officials and Energy Rated Homes of America.  RESNET's standards are officially recognized by the federal government for verification of building energy performance for such programs as federal tax incentives, the Environmental Protection Agency's ENERGY STAR program and the U.S. Department of Energy's Building America Program.

There are several reasons for selecting an energy auditor who is RESNET-certified, including:

(1)  OBJECTIVITY:  You can trust us to provide you with an objective energy audit.  We have pledged to disclose any financial interest we may have in a home that is being audited.

(2)  TECHNICAL PROFICIENCY:  We are fully trained, have demonstrated a high level of technical proficiency, and have committed to maintain and improve our knowledge and proficiency through continued education.

(3)  ETHICAL STANDARDS:  We are committed to conducting our audits in accordance with the RESNET Standards of Practice and Code of Ethics.

(4)  COMPLAINT RESOLUTION PROCESS:  RESNET has developed a complaint resolution process for consumers who believe that their auditor has acted outside of the RESNET Standards of Practice and Code of Ethics.  When you work with a RESNET member, you have the confidence that RESNET is standing behind you.

Source:  http://www.resnet.us

Duct Blaster Testing

Another main source of energy loss and reason for increased utility bills occurs within a homes' ductwork.  Considering there are over a million miles of forced-air ductwork in American homes it is not uncommon to have leaky ducts.  If you have leaks in your ducts you can lose heated or cooled air that you pay for into unconditioned spaces such as crawlspaces or attics.  In addition to this, leaks can also draw unconditioned air into the system contributing to poor indoor air quality.

Click on the link above for a short video clip further explaining the duct blaster test.

Leaking Duct

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

An example of crimped ductwork, which restricts air flow.

Properly Sealed Ductwork

Thermographic Inspections and How They Work

Another integral part of our energy audits involves the use of an infrared camera.  The infrared camera is extremely useful in uncovering hidden defects, such as missing or faulty insulation.  Click on the link above to find out exactly how a thermographic inspection works and what else it can help reveal about your home.

The Infrared Camera

Examples of what the infrared camera can detect

United States Green Building Council Annual Event in Greensboro

The Piedmont Triad North Carolina Chapter of the United States Green Building Council is putting on their annual event in Greensboro tomorrow, October 26th, 2010, at 5:30 PM.  The event will take place at the Proximity Hotel, which was the first LEED© Platinum Hotel in the USA. The title of the event is: "No Nonsense Green:  Real Advice for Real People and Business", and will feature three key note speakers.  The speakers include:  (1) Leigh Stringer, author of The Green Workplace, (2) Wanda Urbanska, the host of PBS' show "Simple Living", and (3) Representative Pricey Harrison of the North Carolina General Assembly.   It will be an evening of information and inspiration as we learn from the experts why sustainable living and business practices just make sense.  The event will cost $20 for members of the Piedmont Chapter of the United States Green Building Council and $30 for nonmembers.