Green is the new buzz word as it seems like everyone is talking about it these days. I think it’s a good idea to educate ourselves on the subject. Let’s take advantage of the energy-saving production technology that is available to us and build energy-efficient homes. I am going to share some “Green Tips” with you.

9 THINGS TO CONSIDER WHEN DESIGNING A NEW HOME OR REMODELING…

1. Design a large overhang to shade the house. We build unique custom trellises that add character to the home while protecting it.

2. Adding skylights will bring in natural light, decrease electricity usage, and they’ll look nice too.

3. Separate rooms with glass walls to let in natural light

4. Insulate with denim

5. Use tankless water heaters

6. When choosing the floor, look for natural materials such as sisal, jute or sheep’s wool. For hard surface flooring, try bamboo (my personal favorite) or cork. Bamboo and cork are renewable resources. There are many new textiles on the market these days. You can get a shag rug made from plastic soda bottles or herbs. Most natural products retain color, resist staining, and last longer.

7. Use LEED-marked paint: Most paints and stains contain VOCs (volatile organic compounds) which release greenhouse gases, increase smog, and reduce indoor air quality. Use low or no VOCs when selecting paint. They are also low odor.

8. Refrigerators use the most energy in the appliance category, and many people own several. Speaking for myself, I have a full size Sub Zero in my kitchen, side by side in my laundry room, and two bar type refrigerators. (there is even one in the garage but it is turned off). I feel that to help our environment we have to start looking at what we really need. Shop for Energy Star appliances.

9. The best way to illuminate a home is with our natural resource the “Sun”. I am a big fan of the open space floor plan. It is the best way to share natural light. Window placement, skylights, and opening help with the lighting design plan. Use fluorescent bulbs whenever you can. They save money, burn cooler, and reduce pollution.

SOLAR SENSE
Arizona is one of the best places for solar energy because of the long hours of natural sunlight that we get. It will need at least 6 hours of sunlight daily to produce enough solar power to make it a vantage point. Some states have excellent rebate programs that compensate the owner. There are also federal tax credits. Visit energystar.gov and contact your Department of State for more information.

Solar panels (also known as PV or photovoltaic systems) work by converting sunlight into electrical energy. The panels are built with solar cells that absorb sunlight. There are electrical contacts on the panels that direct the sun through a circuit that then produces electrical power.

Solar panels can produce enough electricity to power your lights, appliances, and even keep them warm or cool. Panels are installed on the side of your home that receives the most sun exposure.

The cost is determined by the size of your home and the number of kilowatt hours used. Most homes use both solar and traditional utilities. You’ll see considerably lower electric bills and it’s fun to watch your meter turn backwards. But it will take many years to recoup the investment you make to install solar panels. Solar panels are a great way to conserve energy and resources and be eco-friendly.