The First Step to Saving Money on Your Energy Bills, Part 1 (The Kitchen)

Believe it or not, it is entirely possibly to start saving tonight on your energy bills - no matter where you live, or the type of house you live in. The real secret to saving money is knowing where to start. So, let's get started!

It's a very important step - yet it is one that nearly everyone falls all over. In fact, it is the first step for a reason. Knowing where to start looking for energy problems is half the battle. Once you find the problem areas of your home, you can find solutions that will fix or remedy those areas.

In this article, we'll focus on your kitchen's energy usage.

Every home or apartment has a kitchen. And in this kitchen there are numerous appliances you have to keep your eye on. Do you know what the biggest energy waster is in 95% of kitchens? It's the refrigerator. That modern marvel is terrific for keeping foods from spoiling, but if it is more than 10 years old, it is "obsolete" and a waster of energy. Today's refrigerator units use on average 25% less energy than their predecessors just 10 years ago.

So what can go wrong with a refrigerator? Usually the first sign of wear on an old fridge is the seals and hinges of the door. It isn't surprising when you consider that the doors are opened and closed repeatedly at least 10 times a day in over 50% of homes. Think about how often you open and close the doors on a daily basis. Twice at breakfast, four times or more at dinner, and a few more times to reach for a cold beverage.

All the strain on the hinges adds up, especially on older units. Now granted, they are built to withstand the constant opening and closing, but eventually problems will crop up. And when they do, either the door refuses to close all the way or it gives way to small areas around the door that aren't insulating as well as they should.

And the seal...well it doesn't take long for the seal to crack or lose its tight "grip". Once this happens, refrigerated air will leak out (or more to the point, warmer air will seep in) causing your fridge to work harder. The additional strain on the compressor, fan, and other parts means they run longer, on average, than usual. And this directly translates to high energy bills.

So, whats the solution? Well, hinges should be replaced if they are going bad, and the seals should be checked - especially on older units. You can also improve the efficiency of your fridge by ensuring it is not placed in direct sunlight or near a heat register. Minimize the amount of times the doors are opened and closed. Every time you open or close the door, you are exchanging cooled air for warm air. Finally, vacuum the exchanger coils once per year to allow better air circulation and more efficient operation.

The fridge is not the only place energy is used or potentially wasted. Your stove/oven also uses energy. And like refrigerators, the older they are the less efficient they become.

Whether you have an electric range or gas range, be aware that advances in appliance technology again means that units 10 years old or more are less efficient than current models. Keep in mind too if you have a natural gas range that there is inherent inefficiency with burning fuel for heat. Every gas appliance has an efficiency rating which tells you how efficient the unit is at converting the gas input to heat. As a practical example, if a range has a 10,000 BTU burner and operates at 80% efficiency, the most heat it will out put is 8,000 BTU. As the unit gets older, the efficiency rating goes down, so the fuel is burned less efficiently. This means that the range will need to run longer to achieve the desired result. Again, the direct result is higher gas bills.

Electric ranges are no different, except, as with all electronics, they are near 100% efficient in converting the "power". In other words, there isn't a built in efficiency problem as with natural gas appliances. The wattage the unit is rated at will be what it takes as input, and the heat output is consistent. There is no need to convert to an "efficiency output" as with natural gas. However, like their gas counterparts, the heating elements and electronics inside the unit certainly become outdated or can break over time. Consider that if an electric range burner "burns out" or breaks, it is useless. It must be replaced. Gas appliances usually don't have these electrical problems. Newer units use less power and heat better because of better convective cooking surfaces, better heating elements, and better, more energy friendly electronics inside the unit.

Ovens, whether they are electric or gas, typically have the same faults. Over time, the seals wear out and heat is wasted through the doors, Their heating elements as well can become old and outdated. Additionally, the insulation that surrounds the oven may crumble or being to show signs of wear. All these elements contribute to the oven's inefficiency.

So, how do you combat these problems? Sometimes, it isn't an option to use them less. But ideally, that is the best course of action. When using the oven, try to cook foods during the last 5 minutes of the cooking cycle with the heat "off". Avoid peeking into the oven - use the window. Opening the oven too often allows vital heat to escape, and thus the oven as to turn on for a period of time to compensate for the lost heat. You can use a similar trick with electric ranges. The element will remain warm for a couple minutes after it is turned off. Use covers when cooking on the range as they trap more heat than open pots and pans. Lastly, once boiling temperature is reached, turn down the burner to maintain the boil. It saves energy, while still boiling the liquid.

Last, let's touch briefly on microwaves. Another modern marvel that makes cooking fast and simple. There is a direct correlation between the power of the microwave and the power consumption. The power, measured in watts, is the power input. At 100% power, the microwave converts most of the power input to radiation, which heats the food/liquid in the microwave. Simply put, the more powerful the microwave, the more energy it takes. There is no such thing as a powerful microwave that is "energy efficient". Powerful microwaves are inherently energy hogs.

So, where's the opportunity for savings here? Well, using the microwave in "short" periods helps. The less you use the unit, the better off you are. And like most other appliances, older units become inefficient over time. The electronics and more importantly the radiation (microwave) source becomes outdated and produces less radiation. The 10 year rule applies here - if it is older than 10 years old, look into replacing it. Also, watch the hinges and door latch. These have a tendency to come loose with constant usage, even if the unit is only a few years old!

I hope you've enjoyed the energy journey through the kitchen. Next article, We'll walk through your living room and look for opportunities for energy savings there. See you then!

Dave Andersen regularly writes about home energy savings tips, energy efficiency, and saving money on home energy bills. He is not only an avid proponent of alternative energy and energy conservation, but of homeowner education about their home energy usage. He is a regular contributor to Utility Bill Busters, a free blog updated often with cutting edge energy saving tips for homes and businesses. It can be found at http://www.utilitybillbusters.com

How Can Going Back to School Be Green?

Pupils and teachers alike are probably trying not to think about going back to school as the long summer holidays have only just begun, but as it is actually only a matter of weeks away, we have been thinking about how you can stay green as the new academic year approaches.

Firstly there is the equipment and kit that is invariably required whether you are teaching or learning. Many of these requirements are similar from primary school up until university so keep reading whichever type of educational establishment you work or study in. Stationery is a good start, much of which can be bought made from recycled materials. And when it comes to paper, remember to use both sides whether writing or printing. Also plan ahead with regards to lunches and invest in a lunch box rather than using plastic bags every day. If you need new school uniform check whether your school offers second hand clothes and donate your old good quality ones.

With regards to getting to your school or college, try to walk or cycle whenever possible, or use public transport if it is too far. Alternatively, set up a car sharing pool to reduce car use and save money.

Once you are there, you could think about how to make your school or college greener. Why not set up some eco-iniatives with colleagues or peers? You could become a Fairtrade school, set up a recycling scheme or move towards using renewable energy.

Ultimately, going back to school is just one more part of our lives where we can easily make a difference to our carbon footprint by making small changes to the purchases we make and actions we take. So as you start making plans for the next school year, think about how these could be a little greener.

Hayley Jones is the Web Marketing Director of UK Energy Saving, http://www.uk-energy-saving.com

Energy Within - Using Geothermal Energy

This means of energy production uses the heat of the earth to generate power. Currently around 8,000 MW of electricity, with 2,800 MW in the United States alone. As with many other alternative sources, geothermal shows great potential. In a report released last year, the U.S. Geological Survey estimates that the geothermal potential in the U.S. alone is between 95,000 and 150,000 MWe (megawatts of electric power). A report issued just last year by MIT estimates the world's geothermal potential using Enhanced Geothermal Systems (EGS) at more than to be over 13,000 ZJ (a zettajoule is 1021) of which over 200 ZJ would be extractable with current technology.

Geothermal Technology

There are two basic types of geothermal power plants currently in use. Steam plants can use the hot water and very hot steam (over 300F) to power a turbine that feeds a generator directly ("dry steam") or they can depressurize the very high-pressure and temperature water to create steam ("flash steam"). The only emission in enough quantity to be significant is steam, although minute amounts of CO2, NOx and sulfur are released (in amounts almost 50 less than the amounts emitted at fossil fuel plants). Currently steam plants can generate electricity for about 4 cents to 6 cents per kWh.

Binary plants can operate at locations with lower temperatures ((100 F to 300 F), which is more readily available. Hot water passes through a heat exchanger along with a working fluid that has a lower boiling point (e.g., isobutene, isopentane). The working fluid vaporizes, turning the turbines and powering the generators.

Because this system is a closed loop, there are no emissions. Currently steam plants can generate electricity for about 5 cents to 8 cents per kWh. Because the lower-temperature geothermal locations are more plentiful, most plants are binary.

Geothermal energy can also be used a direct heat source. Nearly all the houses in Iceland are heated with water from hot springs, and the country generates more than half its energy from geothermal sources. If the heat is there but the water is not, energy can still be extracted. Pumping water through hot rock heats the water and can be used directly or to generate power.

Underground heat pumps are also a form of geothermal energy, these work like refrigerators in reverse. Believe it or not, you don't have to dig very deep to find the level of earth that stays at a fairly constant temperature - usually about 8 feet. Heat pumps use pipes (buried well below the frost line) that circulate a refrigerant through a cycle of condensing and evaporating between two heat exchangers. One heat exchanger evaporates at low pressure and absorbs heat. A compressor pushes the refrigerant vapor, now at high pressure, to other coil where the refrigerant condenses and releases the heat. Unlike refrigerators and air conditioners, heat pumps can work in both directions-heating and cooling. Energy cost savings with a ground-based heat pump are substantial.

Geothermal Power Advantages

1.Geothermal energy produces little or no emissions.
2. In most cases, the "fuel" is free, although with the "hot rock" method water must be used, and may have to be transported there. Once the power stations are built they cost very little to operate.
3.Geothermal power plants usually have a small footprint, and very little environmental impact.
4.Ground-based heat pumps can be used almost anywhere. If you're thinking that they won't work in your snowy neck of the woods, consider that they are used extensively in Canada.

Geothermal Power Disadvantages

1.Geothermal cannot be considered a renewable resource (although it is a sustainable one).
2.Not every area has accessible geothermal sources. The hot rocks and water must be within drilling range (except in the case of natural geysers).
3.Geothermal sites can run out of steam, as their temperatures drop to low. This can happen naturally or if a "hot rock" extraction method is mismanaged, and the water injected cools the rocks.
4.Along with the hot water and/or steam, geothermal sources can also yield up harmful gases and minerals.
5.Drilling deep into the ground, especially when water is then pumped into the holes, can set off "small seismic events" - earthquakes.
6.While research can suggest likely places for geothermal power plants, there is no guarantee a given site will produce enough energy to offset the capital expenditure and operating costs.

What Can You Do?

Ocean and earth power gives you a lot of options. We've collected the ideas from this chapter-hydropower, tidal power, wave power, ocean thermal conversion, and geothermal power- at the end to remind you of the variety, and to reinforce the idea that while there is no single perfect alternative energy source for the world, or even the country, there are many that in combination could be the perfect solution for you. Much depends on where you live and what resources you have.

1.If you have a river, stream, brook, waterfall or some other running water nearby, look into installing a microhydro system to generate some or all of your electricity.
2.If you live on a body of water that experiences tides, you may be able to use them to your advantage. Naturally you won't be damming up estuaries to power your house (your own personal tide mill), but it is possible that you could implement something on a much smaller scale that powers, say, your dock lights. Realistically, however, what you'll be doing is keeping up with the technology so you'll know when someone has developed something with a more personal application.
3.While none of the wave power technologies are available as personal-size power stations, if you live somewhere that has strong, consistent waves, you may be able to adapt some of the techniques.
4.While you probably don't have a geyser in your yard, you might be able to install a ground-based heat pump to heat and cool your house.

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Gain Energy Independence With Solar Power

You have no doubt heard something about this little thing called solar power which has been getting a lot of attention recently. Some people have been looking into the possibility of powering their home with solar energy, and many have actually begun to do it. While the technology for this has been around for a long time, only recently has become affordable enough for the average homeowner to be able to use it.

The decreased costs is one reason why this form of energy has been getting more attention recently, but there are many other reasons. One is that with the rising cost of electricity, combined with the current state of the economy, many people are looking for ways to lower their monthly expenses. Solar energy in your home can be a way to do this. Many people find that once they spend the money on the equipment and get it running, their monthly electricity costs can be reduced by 60 to 80%.

Another reason solar power has been getting increased attention recently is that many people are looking for ways to live greener. With no emissions into the atmosphere, and no wasteful byproduct, solar energy is one of the cleanest forms of energy available today. Not only is it one of the cleanest forms of energy, but it's also one of the most abundantly available. Unfortunately, only a small fraction of the sun's energy which reaches the earth is being stored and collected.

Gaining independence from the power grid has other advantages as well. For instance, if the power in your neighborhood goes out you may be unaffected. Also as electricity costs continue to rise your cost will remain relatively consistent.

If you're interested in learning how to start powering your home with solar energy, you should know that there are many guides available on the internet which can show you how to construct your own solar panels and solar cells.

I've had a chance to review most of the guides available on how to build your own solar panels, and I've narrowed it down to the 3 that are the best value for your money.

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Easy Money Saving Tips For Today's Economy

Whether or not you make $20,000 a year or a six figure income every one wants to save money.Especially these days, due to the economic crisis saving money has become paramount.Bills, children and those unexpected expenses can easily become overwhelming and we might feel that it is impossible to put anything into savings or worse pay our bills month to month.We examine our bills and every penny that we spend and can not find away that we can make a difference, and it continues to be a downward slope from there.
This may be your life, or maybe you can just some costs on the luxuries that you enjoy.The first step is to recognize it, because you can not fix what you do not acknowledge.The second step is to take action.

Here are some useful tips to cut cost without making major life changes:

Install surge protector - Sure we turn of the television when we go to bed at night, but simply because it is plugged into the wall it is drawing power, which in turn will cost money on your electric bill.That is just the television, think of all the other appliances that are plugged in around your house.Unplug the coffee pot from the wall after your morning coffee, or toaster, blender, you get the idea.For big items like your televisions, stereo, computer, plug them into a surge protector, when you go to bed or off to work for the day, turn the switch to off to cut off complete energy supply.You will truly be surprised how much money you will save on your energy bill.

Heat/Air-conditioning-Just turning it down by 2 degrees when you go to bed or off to work will save you tons of money.Turn it down by 5-10 degrees when you areoff to work, and this little thing can add up to big savings.

Blinds-Common sense, open them in the winter to allow the sun to warm your house vice the heater.In the summer close you blinds to reflect the suns rays to keep your house cooler.
Appliances-If you need a new refrigerator, dish washer, washer whatever it might be, invest in an energy efficient one.If it isnot time to get a new appliance, install energy saver light bulbs, they cost more but will greatly reduce your monthly bill.

Keep the change-Put a change bucket on your kitchen counter and next to the washing machine.Turn the change in for cash; I usually rack up about $50 in change a month.
Meal Planning-Plan out you weekly meals before you will go shopping.Not only will you save money at the grocery store by only buying what you need, you will also save money on fast food.If you know there is something to made when you get home, you are less likely to hit the local fast food drive-thru.

Put a timer on the shower-My kids always linger in the shower.I now give them a 10 minute shower time.I put a kitchen timer in their bathroom, they soap up first and then play, when the timer goes off it is time to get out.This tip has greatly reduced my water bill.

Bulk you plans-First look at your bills.How often do you use those 400 channels or movie package you subscribe to, if the answer is rarely get rid of them.If you have a ton of extras on your phone service that you do not use, say goodbye to those as well.A lot of companies offer package deals, I have my cable, phone and internet bundled together on one bill for a savings of $150 a month.

The point is if you just look there are hundreds of ways to cut costs, to help you save for a rainy day or an emergency fund or just be able to pay your bills each month.Acknowledge the problem and fix it, which is all we truly can do.

Here is to your savings!
The Penny Pincher

Learn even more ways to save money, on everything from grocery shopping, to saving while raising children at http://www.thepennypincher.weebly.com

An Energy Efficient Home is a Money Saving Home!

Energy efficiency is top priority in most people's lives today and this is the reason for the increased popularity in environmentally friendly homes. In fact, people living in these homes experience improved breathing conditions and reduced incidences of flu.

The first thing to do for an eco friendly home is it replace the ducting, heating and cooling systems with low emission and energy efficient stuff. Changes that can be made are like using corn burning furnaces instead of wood fireplaces, using solar water heaters and not electric water heaters and updating of the furnace with an energy efficient model.Use timers and dimmers to regulate your systems It is better to use electronic timers for turning these energy efficient models on and off, when required. It is also possible to save money by using lighting control systems like dimmers, timers and occupancy sensors.

You can improve the heating capacity of your water heater by wrapping it with a thermal blanket. To get increased air conditioning benefits, you can provide some shading for the air conditioner and install a programmed thermostat that adjusts setting automatically.Fill up all cracks and block air leaks. All cracks in the house have to be caulked, vapor barriers installed and energy efficient doors and windows installed. If you intend to sell your home, it is better to do all this about a year before the sale so that you can prove the energy savings through low heating bills.

It is also possible to improve energy efficiency of the home by improving insulation of attic, basement and exterior walls, floors, ceilings and heating ducts. This prevents hot or cold air from entering or leaving the room for increased cooling and heating.Similarly, block any possible air leaks in the form of holes and cracks n walls, windows and doors. Even ensure that there is no air leakage in your ducts.

Use modern windows for maximum lighting Lighting and ventilation have more emphasis today as homeowners turn to be more health conscious. There are more homeowners keeping Feng Shui elements in their homes and are using natural venting. Modern windows and vents are created to provide for maximum natural lighting, and make more use of solar heating. This is to ensure removal of contaminants from the room, reducing the build up of mold and mildew and to avoid using air conditioners.

With all these tips, you will soon be the proud owner of an energy efficient home that produces reduced energy consumption bills for you.

James Tyler is the owner of Ace Builders, a residential remodeling company serving the Raleigh, North Carolina area. Tyler writes about issues relating to all types of remodeling and home improvement projects.

For more information, tips and advice visit http://www.acebuilders.net

What is Solar Power - Residential Solar Energy For Your Home

More and more people are asking "What is solar power?" and with good reason.

Alternative energy sources are getting a lot of attention.

Solar power is worthy of our attention because it's really free energy once the initial investment is made. Of course there are maintenance costs - but that's true with any type of system.

So exactly what is solar power?

There are a couple types we'll talk about here.

The first is the production of electricity from the sun's rays.

This may be the most common type of solar power. When we think "solar power" electricity is what we think about.

To create electricity individual solar cells or photovoltaic cells are connected in an array and positioned so that sunlight will strike the surface.

How many cells are connected depends on total wattage required to operate the given load. Typical solar panels will give 10-13 watts per square foot. So if you require 100W of power you would need 10 square feet of solar panels.

Two other factors that affect the efficiency of a solar panel are: The angle the light strikes the surface and the amount of available sunlight. There are formulas and various tools on the market to help determine the best placement of your solar panels.

The other way to use solar power is for heating. You can heat your home, your water, or perhaps a pool or hot tub.

Solar water heaters have been around since the 1930's. The use of solar water heaters faded as electricity became more readily available.

Now we're taking a second look - and no wonder - it requires a lot of energy to heat our homes and the water we use every day.

Consider how quickly the outdoor temperature rises on a clear day. The sun does an amazing job of heating air.

If you've ever left a water bottle on the dash of your car on a sunny day - you know the sun also does a great job of heating water!

What if we could harness this to heat the air and water inside our homes? Well we can!

There are commercially available solar collectors designed to heat air or water or both. And of course with a little research you can build your own and create your own solar experiment.

Most involve some sort of water filled tubes inside an insulated housing with a transparent covering facing the sun. This allows the sunlight to warm the tubes and the water inside them while keeping outside air from cooling them down.

Recently I found a collector designed to heat air. It basically the same insulated box with transparent surface only without the water filled tubes. The air is warmed as it passes through the unit.

So there's some basics for those who're asking "What is Solar Power?"

For even more information on solar power and a cool video explanation go here: What IS Solar Power

Discover more about solar power and what it can do for you here! http://www.squidoo.com/what-is-solar-power

Reduce Or Eliminate Your Electric Power Bill Altogether

You can reduce your electric power bill by approximately 80% simply by implementing simple windmills and solar cells which you can build yourself. It's been estimated that the average homeowner's monthly electric power bill falls roughly around $200, so this works out to be considerable savings in the long run.

Using a do it yourself guide you can build your own solar cells or windmills, regardless of your level of expertise or complete lack thereof. It's easier than you think as most of these guides were designed so that even a child could build their own energy harnessing tools. You can do it on a budget, regardless of your financial situation, using inexpensive materials for under $200. This is a welcome relief to the $3000 price tag associated with having it professionally installed.

As I said, the average electric power bill is estimated to be $200 a month. This adds up to roughly $2500 annually. Just by converting the power of the sun or the wind into usable electricity, you can easily reduce your consumption of finite energy by 80% which works out to be $2000 in annual savings. That's not to say that you have to stop there.

The addition of more solar cells or a second windmill can easily produce enough electricity for you to live off of completely. Many homeowners with extra land to devote towards it us that land to produce larger abundances of natural electricity. What do they do with it from there? You can sell back any abundance of natural electricity which you don't use in a given month to the power company for a tidy profit. Homeowners like the ones I just mentioned do this to earn an attractive second income. Part of the beauty of green renewable energy is that you get what you put into it, so how much you produce is really up to you. It doesn't have to end with eliminating your electric power bill.

If you'd like to eliminate your electric power bill altogether, visit http://www.renewableenergyreviewed.com for a listing of the leading do it yourself guides and start saving yourself a fortune today.

The New Trend in Residential Metal Roofing

You've seen steel roofs on barns, but how often have you seen them on residential property? It's very likely you'll be seeing them a whole lot more around the country. With wildfires, hurricanes, hail and other extreme conditions damaging houses, an increasing number of homeowners are taking advantage of the benefits of metal roofing.

Steel roof installations have more than doubled in the last five years and will continue to grow 15 percent per year, according to the Metal Roofing Alliance (MRA). There is no material more capable of protecting a home from destructive weather conditions.

Benefits of Metal Roofing

Durability

A metal roof will last at least two to three times longer than an asphalt roof, or 40 to 60 years. In the warm, humid Southern states, metal is virtually immune to the unsightly mildew stains that often form on asphalt shingles. Properly installed, a metal roof won't leak or rust and can withstand wind gusts up to 140 miles per hour.

Shane Scott, a real-estate entrepreneur from LaGrange, Georgia, renovates and resells older homes. He installed a metal roof for his own home in 2000 and was so pleased with it he's purchased metal roofs for all the homes he's refurbished since then.

"When buyers are considering a home, they're always concerned about the condition of the roof," notes Scott. "With metal, they know they won't need to do anything to it for at least 50 years. With an asphalt roof, they'll need to replace it within 15 to 20 years."

Protection

Most metal roof systems have passed UL 2218 Impact Resistance testing at its most severe level, Class IV. As a result, homeowners in hail-prone states who choose metal roofing may be eligible for discounts on their insurance premiums.

Ed Parker, a retired homeowner from Sharpsburg, Georgia agrees. "We've gone through two or three asphalt roofs on our home over the years and they discolor and rip off during wind storms, or leak due to hail storms," Parker said. "Metal is much more durable."

Environmentally Friendly

The National Association of Homebuilders Research Center estimates that 20 billion pounds of asphalt roofing is taken to landfills every year. Metal's longevity removes the need for frequent roof replacements. Better still, it can be laid over the current roof, eliminating the costs of shingle removal and land-fill fees. If a metal roof is ever removed, it can be recycled.
Steel is the best choice for "green" buildings, where the goal is to reduce or eliminate chemical substances, according to the American Iron and Steel Institute (AISI). Unlike wooden shakes or some other traditional materials, steel is not vulnerable to insects, mold or rot. Therefore, it does not require the application of insecticides or other hazardous chemicals.

Energy Efficient

Time-tested metal roofs save energy and reduce your cooling costs by as much as 40 percent, depending on location, says the MRA. The advent of new reflective paints with energy-saving properties has revolutionized the residential roofing industry.

While asphalt and cedar shingles absorb heat, the new cool pigment technology can reflect up to 85 percent of the sun's radiant energy. Now, even dark colors achieve the "cool" attributes. An Energy Star roof can stay up to 100 degrees cooler on its surface than other roofs, so less heat is transferred into the building.

Wilmer Dykes, a homeowner from Cochran, Georgia, noticed a decrease in his energy bill of at least 25 percent after installing his metal roof. Dykes believes keeping his old roof on his home helped save energy. "By building the new metal roof over it, we created an air pocket between the two roofs, giving us an added layer of insulation," he said.

Low Maintenance

A metal roof won't crack, curl, split, rot or lose impact resistance with age. The only maintenance recommended for a metal roof is an annual inspection, clearing the roof of accumulated leaves or other debris and checking roof top ancillaries and air conditioners to ensure that they are properly drained and supported.

Tax and Insurance Savings

The U.S. Energy Policy Act of 2005 allows for a tax credit for homeowners who install qualified energy-efficient improvements to an existing home, including metal roofs that meet the Energy Star program requirements.

Aesthetics

For some, a stigma still remains from the old, ugly metal barn roofs. However, a host of new colors, finishes and profiles has drastically improved the look over the last 10 years.

Don Smith, another homeowner from Cochran, said that aesthetics was one of the most important factors in his decision to purchase a metal roof. "I had seen steel roofs in the high-end subdivisions and really liked the look," he said. "Now, strangers stop in my driveway and ask me questions about my roof because they like the look of it too.

Casey Paulk, owner of Paulk Landscaping serving central Georgia, agrees. "In my business, I see a ton of homes, so I'm always comparing, contrasting and making mental notes," he said. "When I built my new home, I did a lot of research. I decided to go with a metal roof primarily for the aesthetics - I love the way metal looks."

Be Wary of Your Warranty

Finding a warranty that offers complete protection is harder than most consumers realize, says Clay Smith, owner of Mid-GA Steel and Supply, headquartered in Grantville, Georgia. "There is no way to tell if two metals lying side by side have any difference in quality," he said. "Unscrupulous manufacturers can make 25-year warranty claims for cheap metal that actually has just a five year life before fading."

Because of this risk, it's important to find a manufacturer that puts its steel vendors' coil numbers on their warranties, which connects the buyer with the vendor and the exact metal purchased. "This will ensure that the warranty will be fully honored throughout its duration," Smith said. "Without the coil number on your warranty, you have no protection, regardless of what your warranty might imply."

A Long-Term Investment

Often one of the barriers to purchasing a metal roof is the cost, which is two to three times that of a shingle roof. However, buyers who realize a metal roof is a one-time investment versus an ongoing, life-long expense understand the considerable value it offers.

Asphalt roofs typically need to be replaced approximately every 15 years due to deterioration. Conversely, a metal roof is a permanent, extremely low-maintenance roof. "Although the up-front costs are considerably more than an asphalt roof, over the long term the durability of a metal roof makes it well worth it," said Mr. Paulk.

The Final Solution

The rapid increase in the number of metal roofs nationwide will likely continue to intensify, as consumers better understand the durability and both the short and long-term savings metal roofs offer. Add to that the beauty of metal roofs seen in their own neighborhoods, and it's easy to understand the surge in growth. The market is ripe; as baby boomers pay off their homes and settle into retirement, they are looking for a roof solution that lasts a lifetime.

Debbie Brucks is a freelance writer living in Peachtree City, GA. Her email address is dabrucks@aol.com

For more information, go to http://www.energystar.gov

Eco-Friendly Renovation Financing

In short Eco-Friendly lending helps helps you discover new ways to reduce your energy consumption and how to finance the transition to a greener lifestyle. With energy prices forever rising and the planet starting to feel years of neglect, it has become ever more important to look for new ways of doing things. What better place to start than your biggest asset, your home? You should explore what renovation projects will help you reduce your energy consumption as well as show you the ins and out of renovation loans and energy efficient mortgage solutions as a way to finance the change.

There are lots of blogs out there for what to do, but we are the only one dedicated to showing you how to pay for it. Let's face it, if you have looked into making your home more eco-friendly in the past then you know that going green isn't cheap. Whether it be solar panels, energy efficient appliances, EnergyStar windows, additional insulation or tankless water heaters, none of them are cheap. Regardless, there are dozens of mortgage programs, tax incentives and purchase credits out there designed to help you pay for your new green home.

Whether you are looking to go completely "off the grid" or just looking for a way to shave some costs off your monthly energy bills, we will provide the solutions and advice you need to make it happen. Along the way we will provide you with other tips you can use when building or renovating your home to help reduce your energy consumption, save yourself some cash and feel good about your contribution to saving the planet.

For more information on how to create a green home visit my website, GoGreenWithFHA.com!

Jonathan Blackwell
Green Renovation Specialist
Hometown Lenders
http://www.203KLoan.net
http://www.GoGreenWithFHA.com
404-551-3845

Energy Efficiency is a Profit Center For Your Business

Don't think of energy efficiency as Savings... Think of it as Profits.

Saving businesses money by reducing energy use has significant rewards, but they are often overlooked in favor of more immediate, tangible returns. One of the overlooked benefits of energy savings programs is that they rarely have a one year return, but instead generate bottom line profits year after year.

Often company executives are in the dark when it comes to understanding the amount of money they actually pay for energy. They know with great certainty exactly how much they pay for each component that is used to create the widgets they sell, but they don't know how much power their buildings and processes consume. And that is a significant gap in their business model.

This article shows how, by investing in energy savings, a business can make significant returns to the bottom line, year after year.

For purposes of this article, let's assume that you own a small business with average energy bill of approximately $15,000 a year. If your business could reduce that energy bill by 30% by investing $4,000 in energy efficiency would it be worth it?

First, let's look at the simple payback method. At $15,000 a year, a 30% savings would generate $4,500 in yearly savings. And if you were spending $4,000 to get that energy savings, you would have a simple payback period of .88 years, or about 10 and months. For virtually all businesses, that is a very acceptable return on investment.

Second, let's look beyond the simple payback method. Let's look at the investment return over the life of the investment and see what it can do for us. For simplicity, let's assume that the investments made to increase energy efficiency had a life of 7 years. The initial investment would have been paid off in 10 months, but the benefit (profits) from that investment (returns) continue for the next 7 years. That means after the first year, the business will have 6 more years of those improvements generating a $4,500 return each and every year. The result?

Well since this is a Series question we input $4,500 a year as our "A", with 6 years as our "n" and 5% as our "i". The answer comes out to $30,608.55 in total returns(profits) over those 7 years.

Now, let's look at one alternative - instead of investing back into their business, the owner takes that $4,000 as a payout and puts it into her retirement account. For purposes of this example, let's assume her retirement account is earning a really strong return of 10% (despite the economic turndown). The $4,000 is a one-time investment, so it runs as a Single Sum Series. After 7 years she would have a total of $7,794. That means she would have left $22,814 on the table. Or better defined, she would have paid the local utility companies $22,814 more than she paid herself for the privilege of wasting energy.

(c) 2008 Denby Energy, LLC All Rights Reserved.

Michael Denby is the founder and President of Denby Energy, LLC. http://www.denbyenergy.com

How To Make Big Cuts In The Energy You Use In Your Home, And Your Energy Bills

Concern over energy consumption has grown greatly in recent years. Gas and electricity prices have been at record highs, hitting homeowners in their pockets. Plus there is a growing realisation amongst the general public that our energy consumption is causing global warming, which is leading to growing problems with our climate. In a recent Henley Centre survey, over 62% of respondents said that climate change is the biggest single problem facing the world today.

We use a great deal of energy in our homes. Our homes account for over a quarter of greenhouse gas emissions in northern countries like the UK. However, reducing your homes energy consumption is in most cases quite easy. It can also be very lucrative: some of the major actions you can take to reduce your homes energy consumption pay back very quickly, and so you soon start saving a small fortune. There are 4 or 5 simple measures that almost every householder should focus on.

1.Insulate your home.

By keeping more of the warmth in your home in winter, you will save a small fortune on your heating bills. The most common types on insulation to install are in the loft and also in the gap between your external walls (called cavity wall insulation). You can also insulate your floors and walls. Not only will this save you money, but your home will be more comfortable in winter and cooler in summer. Plus in the UK, because the government subsidises insulation, the investment needed will normally payback in under 2 years. Moreover, on average you will be preventing 1 to 2.5 tonnes of carbon dioxide being emitted each year.

2.Upgrade to a super-efficient condensing boiler.
Your boiler is the main energy user in the house. Modern condensing boilers are far more efficient than some models made even 5 years ago. They use far less gas, and can save you up to 40% off your heating bills as a result. They last for around 15 years so the savings really add up over time. Plus by doing this you are saving an estimated 1.25 tonnes of carbon dioxide each year.

3.Replace your light bulbs with low energy bulbs.
These use up to 80% less electricity used by traditional incandescent bulbs, and are now indistinguishable in terms of the light they emit. Plus they last up to 10 times longer. So as well as cutting your electricity bills, you dont have to get the ladder out so often to replace bulbs that have blown. Now that these bulbs have come down in price, they can payback their extra cost in a very short time (only a couple of months) in terms of lower electricity bills.

4.Install energy efficient home appliances.
Replacing your old fridge with the most energy efficient models can save you a small fortune on your electricity bills. In fact with the most energy efficient models, the savings can actually add up to cover the entire cost of the new fridge! Plus you can also buy other energy efficient appliances, such as washing machines and dishwashers. In the EU all appliances carry an energy efficiency rating, so it is easy to spot the most efficient.

5.Install a solar hot water system.
This is the most expensive of the measures mentioned in this article, but still worth doing, even in northern climates. A solar system can provide up to 70% of your hot water needs in a year, saving on your gas bills. Using solar panels mounted on the roof, solar hot water systems can be installed in most houses. This is a tried and tested technology, and you may qualify for a government grant to help with the cost of installation.

By taking these 5 measures, the average householder can save hundreds of pounds a year off their energy bills, and prevent several tonnes of carbon dioxide being emitted into the atmosphere. Even taking one or two of these steps has a big impact.

Plus for those who want to make an even bigger reduction in their homes energy use, there are also more advanced measures to be considered such as solar electricity and ground source heat pumps. These generally cost more, but can allow your home to lower even further its impact on Climate Change.

With energy prices set to stay high, and time running out to prevent harmful changes in the earths climate, it really does make sense to improve our homes as soon as possible to include these measures. Further information on how to get going is on http://www.downwithco2.co.uk

Alex Perry is a founder of DownwithCO2.co.uk, which helps people cut their personal contribution to climate change through providing information and contacts.

Tax Benefits of Owning and Using Solar Panels at Home

The Energy Policy Act of 2005 was the first federal tax break given to people who chose renewable over nonrenewable energy. Before this act, there was little incentive for people to buy solar outside of environmental concerns. Few state programs offered tax breaks to people who bought expensive panels, and there was very little press about the benefits of solar. Today, there's a whole new appreciation for the sun's power and how it can help millions keep their homes electrified.

The Energy Policy Act of 2005 gives homeowners who buy solar panels a tax credit up to $2000 maximum, or 30%, of their investment. This was extended to existing homes from 2005 to 2007. On February 4, 2008, the Energy Policy Act of 2005 was extended to cover almost any home in the U.S. that uses solar energy as its primary source. This includes new homes built between the end of 2005 to January 2009. So, if you've built a new home and installed solar panels as a part of its construction, now you can also benefit from this great tax credit in your 2008 taxes.

The next bill that was recently passed that provides further tax credits is the Emergency Economic Stabilization Act of 2008. This extends most of the Energy Policy Act of 2005, but adds a bit more credit if you're planning on doing some improvements in 2009. First, this bill removes the $2000 credit cap for some solar panel systems. This means if you buy a solar panel system for $30,000, you can get a credit well above $2000. You can get it up to $10,000 when you itemize your tax deductions! If you previously received a tax credit for your solar system, and you're system qualified well over the $2000 cap, you may qualify to retroactively receive a credit for the remaining 30%.

Depending on what state you live in, you may also find many great state tax incentive programs for switching to solar. New Mexico is one of the friendliest solar states in the US. New Mexico allows its state residents to qualify for a $9000 tax credit when you install a solar system, and they also protect the rights of homeowners to receive checks from electric companies for net-metering.

Florida, Vermont, Minnesota, Washington, and New York carry no sales tax whatsoever on solar panels and their accessories. Also, Texas and Virginia won't tax your new solar panels as an added property value (which can save you a lot of money in property taxes). California allows you to deduct the interest you pay on an energy loan in your taxes. New York, South Carolina and Arizona all allow you to claim an extra 25% tax credit on your residential solar system.

With so many tax incentives and special programs, you should do some homework before you decide to plunge into solar. A solar panel system is a big investment, and the more research you do, the more money you stand to get back!

Philip Richards knows all about solar power. Check out how he built his own home solar power at http://www.EasyHomeSolarPower.com. Or you can check out his blog on solar power at http://HomeSolarBlog.com

14 Things You Should Know About Air Conditioning

1. My home summer air conditioning bill is bigger per month than the winter heating bill per month. Traditional air conditioning is less efficient than heating and natural gas is less expensive than electricity.

2. Air conditioners have two motors that use electrical power. The compressor is the machine that makes the refrigerant cool the air. The other motor drives the fan that moves the air. Motors are energy hogs.

3. Every degree that you set your thermostat below 78 increases your air conditioning cost by 3 to 4%.

4. While your AC is working normally, you should feel the amount of airflow from your window unit or register for central units. You need to know what is normal to be able to trouble shoot problems.

5. Use a thermometer to check the room temperature and the temperature of the air that the AC is putting out. The air coming out of the AC should be about 20 degrees F cooler than the room temperature. Make a note what the difference is. This is good trouble shooting data for future use.

6. Air conditioning reduces the water vapor in the air turning it into liquid water. This makes us more comfortable by lowering the humidity in the home. The condensed water will flow down hill.

7. The water is supposed to drain outdoors from the back of a window unit, or to a basement floor drain for central air conditioning. There is a drip pan at the bottom of the window unit. There is a drip pan located under the cooling coil, inside the ductwork above your furnace for central air conditioning. The drip pan is there to catch the water and direct it the proper drain location. Seeing a lot of water going to the right place is very good news. It indicates that your AC is working as designed.

8. If water is draining to the wrong place, it can make an unpleasant mess. Window units should be tilted so the outdoor end is a little lower than the indoor end. If it is tilted, too much the wrong way water will drain into the house and make a mess.

9. Water from a central AC draining down inside of the furnace, will rust the furnace and destroy it before it wears out.

10. If the water is not draining, it will make ice and stop your AC from working. When the drip pan fills with water ice will start forming on the cold coil. The ice grows upward starting at the bottom of the cold coil. As the ice builds up it blocks the air flowing through the cold coil. You are likely to be unaware if the problem until the temperature in the house goes up. Given enough time a mixture of dust and dirt from the air, will plug the drain. Cleaning the drip pan and drain needs to be part of the pre-season maintenance.

11. How do you know when the coil inside the ductwork is iced up when you cannot see in there? If the fan is running but the airflow is reduced or stopped, it is iced up. See number 4 above.

12. If you do not take corrective action, the AC will continue to run wasting expensive electricity. The ice will continue to build up and the house will continue to get warmer. Action plan: Turn the AC off. Let the ice melt. Fix the drain problem. Turn the AC back on.

13. If the AC stops cooling but the air is flowing normally, the problem is not ice. If there is good airflow but the AC is putting out air that is not 20 degrees cooler than room temperature the problem may be due to low refrigerant level in the AC. See number 5 above. When the refrigerant leaks out the AC will continue to run wasting electricity. With low refrigerant, the AC will cool poorly and waste power.

14. What to do if your AC puts out a normal amount of air that is 20 degrees cooler than room temperature but the house does not cool down? The AC may be too small for the job. It needs your help. Action plan: Reduce the amount of outdoor hot air that is sneaking into the house. Shut off heat producing appliances and old style light bulbs. Close the storm windows and doors. Add more insulation to the attic. Spray water on the outdoor part of the central AC. Spray water on the house. Make shade for the house. Make shade for the AC. Buy another window unit. Pack up and move North.

You can save money on your energy bills at home at work by visiting the ENERGY BOOMER blog at http://energyboomer.com

I am a Baby Boom Vintage Energy Engineer with a mission to help folks save money on their energy bills.

I am building on my work experience, or rather trying to put it to work for my readers.

Trying to save the planet from global climate change or delaying the economic collapse that using peak oil is expected to cause are good motives. But, saving some cash right now is better.

I just want to help folks save a buck, both at home and at work.

If it helps promote energy independence, I can support that too.

When we each shave a little off our energy bills, it is good for the environment and good for our economy.

It is nice to have good side effects while keeping cash in your pocket.

I graduated from Michigan State University with a Mechanical Engineering degree in 1971 and have had a long career saving energy in a variety of industries.

Reduce Your Carbon Footprint by Using Alternative Energy

Most people are familiar with the term carbon-footprint even if they haven't taken the time to become experts on the subject. What you may not realize is that even in our daily lives, both we individually and our homes leave a huge carbon footprint. Many agencies and non profit organizations have given guidance and provided ways that we can reduce our collective carbon footprint. However, the first thing that must happen before people can fix any issue is that they must know about the problem.

Every piece of matter composed of carbon contributes to the carbon footprint. They leave their carbon footprint by emitting a certain amount of greenhouse gas pollution, which is released to the atmosphere. This is measured by the amount of Co2 emissions, which are the main reason for concern about global warming. Human activity is without a doubt the leading cause of this epidemic.

Each individual produces enough carbon dioxide in their daily living to have an impact on their environment in their lives. One can contribute this abundance of Co2 emissions to traveling in a car to work, leaving their computers running, leaving the lights on, washing their clothes at one hundred degrees unlike recommended eighty five, or even deodorants that are contained in aerosol cans.

Climate change has affected many parts of the world, most noticeably in the polar ice caps which are melting and receding at an alarming rate. Climate change is a relatively new concept, and the experts are trying to find ways of working on solutions to this problem. When people are aware of their impact on the environment and strive to use less energy, they may affect climate change positively and reduce the problem of global warming.

One obvious way that the average person can help to reduce their carbon footprint is by implementing some form of renewable energy to power their homes. This "green" electricity is a relatively new concept, but is an easy alternative for the average do it yourselfer to put into practice today.

There is no question that alternative energy IS the future and the future is right now.

You can generate you own energy for a lot less than you think! AEG features reviews on popular Do it Yourself Alternative Energy Guides.

Learn to build solar panels, and wind powered generators for a fraction of the cost of an installed system.

Vertical Axis Windmills - The 3 Critical Factors You Need to Know

With the current energy prices rising and the economy tanking more people are trying to find effective ways to lower their energy bills. One area that wise consumers are looking to is creating their own energy with vertical axis windmills and solar panels. I mean imagine the thrill of not getting an energy bill at the beginning of each month. For those of us who have bills of $200, $300, $400 or more a month this would be a windfall to say the least.

The good news this is not fantasy. Many corporations are turning to wind power, such as Nissan UK, Safeway Grocers, and Whole Foods Inc. But the savings aren't limited to big corporations, in fact there are some households who are creating so much energy that they have a surplus and are turning around and "selling" their extra energy back to their utility companies.

Will Wind Power Work For You: The Bottom Line Facts

People often get very excited when they hear that they can create a vertical axis windmill with a car radiator fan, or an alternator and some packing material. It is exciting to be sure but there are some real concerns that those who just want to sell you something are not telling you. However before I get into the concern I want to encourage you that if a vertical turbine will not work for you, there are other solutions, and I will cover some below.

Wind Turbine Energy Fact #1

Wind speed becomes a main factor as to whether your environment can support wind energy production. The fact is that even the most efficient vertical axis wind turbine cannot produce enough power to be of any use at wind speeds below 9MPG. And most models cannot be effectively relied upon until wind speeds are up to 12 MPH or more. And really this needs to be consistent wind speed. Not just the occasional gusts. You can research your local wind speed by visiting awea.org. But before you jump the gun, read on.

Wind Turbine Energy Fact #2

Even if you find that you have a high enough prevailing wind speed in your area to support wind power, your own property may not be able to give you enough wind to do you any good. The reality is that factors such as trees and buildings can have a tremendous effect on the wind flow in your property. There have been numerous cases where residents have installed wind turbines and neighbor's trees have grown up to block out the wind and decrease efficiency. So do your investigation to see if you have the wind flowing in an area that you can actually place a turbine, and that there will be no future impediment to that wind flow.

Wind Turbine Energy Fact #3

Zoning is a factor that very few people take into consideration. As hip as being green is becoming and as nice as vertical axis windmills can look, many neighborhoods do not allow strange contraptions that would be considered "eye-sores." This means that you need to check with your CC&Rs and local zoning. And if you live in an apartment or condo you will have to check with your housing organization to see if this type of home made power plant will be allowed.

The Best Solution

The bottom line best solution is to run a combination of energy sources such as wind and solar. But up until recently the only options for such combinations ran as high as $30,000 The good news is that there are plans available to construct your own solar panels and wind turbines with no mechanical skills required. These panels are very inexpensive, often under $200, so the ability to recoup costs is very fast.

For more information on wind turbine plans along with solar panel plans, click to http://www.residentialsolarandwindpower.com

What is Environmentally Friendly Real Estate?

We are hearing this expression a lot more these days "Green". The federal government does not have a specific definition for "environmentally- friendly", so we have to rely on organizations that will set standards to qualify a product or usage of a product to meet minimum requirements to be labeled for energy efficiency or environmental safety. In this time of high oil prices, and climate change, there is a new awareness of how we effect the environment we live in.

Environmental concerns have become popular conversation. While some of the ideas and practices have been around for ages, the practical use of these concepts in our modern times is new. We hear and see it in everything from clothing, alternative fuel, building products, and cleaning products. We are seeing it in businesses (banks, colleges, municipalities) that are cutting back on mail-outs and billing, trying to lessen the use of paper. There is also a lot of discussion on what makes a product "green". These the words have been used loosely and with-out directive or management. There are organizations on a national, state and local level that offer a set of specific guidelines or criteria for products to be able to garnish their label of "environmentally safe" or "energy efficient". For the most part consumers have to educate themselves and look for reputable companies, read labels and research products.

Green building has become a popular concept and along with all the great products and professionals that are available, there are also plenty of scams and scam artist associated with being "green". The term "green wash" typically describes the exaggeration or overstatement of terms used as "being green" or" good for the environment". Check with your local government and other organizational offices for information about product providers or a list of professionals who can guide you in products for your home. From new home builders who are building homes that have to meet energy efficiency standards of the local city ordinances or to products for home owners who want to improve their homes energy efficiency. Local offices can provide information about professionals who have the ability and training to perform energy audits and other services that can help in your decision to make minor or major environmental or energy efficient changes. Consumers need to have the ability to understand how features and products that make claims of being green or good for the environment will be of a particular value to them. As a single consumer you may think that your efforts do not make a difference on the whole but every little step or action adds up to a greater end.

Being green does not mean you need to be wealthy or compromise your comfort and health. In most instances living green should not require any special effort. There are many cities that work with energy companies to help consumers switch to efficient products with rebates and other incentives, including such products as low water flow toilets, programmable thermostats, solar panels, thankless water heaters, florescent bulbs, weather stripping and the list goes on. A little energy saving here, a little less trash in our land fills there, one less gallon of gas, all of these can add up to a lot of savings. And not just in monetary gains, but in a safer and cleaner environment for all of us. The world is getting smaller due to technology; maybe if we can make small changes to our own surroundings, there will continue to be changes on a larger scale. So what is environmentally friendly? Maybe it means to live and treat the earth around us like there is a tomorrow.

Austin real estate, residential resale and new home sales. Information for Austin Texas real estate skyrealtyaustin.com

DIY Solar Panels For Your Home

Are you interested in a DIY project that will save you some big cash and help improve our environment at the same time? Say 'hello' to DIY solar power & green energy solutions, simple step-by-step guides that can teach you how to build DIY solar panels for your own home.

Just a few years ago, on August 6th, 2003, a brand new photovoltaic (solar) cell was revealed. This new cell was extremely efficient and capable of converting 36% of the suns rays into pure electricity. Prior to this new technology, solar cells could only convert about 10-15% of the suns rays into electricity. With the new photovoltaic technology, solar power ideals have really taken off and become more available.

Only about 8% of the energy produced in the United States comes from renewable energy sources. About 6.5% of that energy comes from hydro-electric dams and the other 1.5% comes from wind turbines and solar power panels. An astonishing 51% of our energy is still produced by burning dirty coal, and for this reason our environment is deteriorating faster than ever before. If we want our children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren to enjoy this beautiful planet, we need to make some changes.

Many people are aware of the state of our environment and more people are truly interested in renewable energy sources for their home than ever before. However, professional solar panel projects can cost a fortune. In fact a solar panel system can easily mount up to $10,000 if you're aiming to pull the plug from your power company. The problem is obvious; most families can't afford to install such a system.

Enter the world of DIY solar power! DIY solar power can cost a fraction of what a professional system would cost you. On top of that, once it's built and installed, it will continue to generate electricity for a lifetime. The one problem many people have in regards to DIY solar power is, well, how the heck to build such an advanced piece of technology?

Over the past year, many companies have been offering guides to DIY solar power and other green energy projects. Most of these guides also include DIY wind turbines for those that live in the windy parts of the world. I've done a fair amount of research on these guides and read some reviews. Most of the parts can be found at your local hardware store. However, if you live out in the country, you may find it a bit more difficult to find the solar cells. If that's that case you can just buy them online after doing a simple search.

The average family spends 20-25% of their income on energy each year. By picking up a DIY solar power guide and building the solar panels to generate your own electricity, you'll be doing your part and contributing to the green energy cause. Not only that but you'll have the satisfaction of doing it yourself. If I've sparked your interest, never fear, for you can read some reviews of the best guides on the market by clicking on the link above or the link below.

Let's keep it green!

http//www.DIYSolarPowerGuides.com - In-depth Reviews on the best DIY Solar Power Guides available.

Renewable Energy - Lesson 3 - Wind Power

Today, much emphasis is being placed on renewable energy, living green, and the environment, Never before has there been such a strong and growing grass roots movement toward renewable and sustainable energy and environmental responsibility. In truth, this movement is to a significant extent motivated by financial concerns of people who are desperate to cut utility bills by finding ways to conserve energy. However, the end result is the same; much more interest in and progress toward bringing renewable and sustainable energy technology such as wind power into the mainstream.

Wind power is a concept that, like solar power, has been around for a long time and sparsely used. In the last five years, this has changed dramatically. In the Midwest, one can see many examples of eclectic cooperatives purchasing land or at least leasing rights to construct huge farms of wind generators to augment their electricity generating capabilities and to bring down the cost of electricity to their customers. While this is a great development from an environmental aspect, the average customer sometimes does not see a great reduction in their monthly electric bill.

Wind power for the average private residence is possible. While technically possible to go off the grid with wind power, this is not as reliable or advisable compared to solar power. However, residential wind power generators do make sense in that they can significantly reduce one's electric bill. Unlike the massive towers with gigantic propellers, that one sees the electric cooperatives using, residential wind generators are compact, relatively small and usually unobtrusive.

These residential wind generators can be free standing with their own tower, usually 20 to 30 feet tall, or they can be mounted on a tower which is in turn mounted on the roof of the house. The residential wind generator does face some challenges that solar power does not. The configuration of a wind generator generally requires that the propeller be at least 20 or 30 feet off the ground, especially in a dense residential area. Depending on the neighborhood, some will run into zoning restrictions that might prevent them from having a tall tower on or around their house. However this is the exception rather than the rule. Most homeowners will be able to install their wind generator with a minimum of trouble and expense.

Most wind generators are relatively affordable and can be paid for in the first two years with the savings in the monthly electric bill that they make possible. People are usually surprised by how little wind is necessary to generate a significant amount of wind power. This will vary according to region, but most places will have sufficient wind to generate at least some wind power every day.

For great tips and information on small wind generator please visit: http://www.RenewableEnergyForUs.com.

Energy Performance Certificates

From 2008 the UK will have a regulation governing business property. There will be a certificate required that rates the building dealing with energy management. This will have a huge impact on the business community.

The UK in 2008 will see new regulation being rolled out that will affect all commercial premises. EPCs stands for Energy Performance Certificates and will be required for rental, sale or construction of commercial property.

So each building will be given an energy rating A,B,C,D,E,F,G. Band A should have the lowest fuel bills reflected by being the most energy efficiency. For the higher rating the carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions should be lower.

It is thought that currently most UK commercial property will fall into bands D-E for both ratings. Obviously this rating will effect the businesses value on sale or rental achievable. So this will push the business owners' to invest in better energy efficiency throughout as this money spent will be regarded as a potential return on investment. And therefore a positive business action to be undertaken.

Each EPC will last for ten years. The Department of Communities and Local Government (CLG) must measure the effects of EPCs on the business sector. Adjustment may have to be made if it has a damaging effect because of cost in a recession and the ability of the landlord to lease their property easily. This legislation will effect business premises across the range of sizes so nobody will be unaffected by this.

This policy has the added advantage of long term money savings on fuel bills as that it looks like energy demand for the long term will be high due to the UK now having limited resources and the massive demand on oil in the Far East.

http://www.mortgagebestrate.co.uk/commercial_mortgage.htm

02380 781222
patrick@mortgagehome.co.uk

Solar and Wind Power-Green Living From Homemade Energy

Intelligent use of energy has become a great concern throughout the world with businesses and residences thinking alike. Many individuals have realized that Solar And Wind Power-Green Living From Homemade Energy is the way to go. What we do today will affect us for generations to come. We can continue using fossil fuels, which, if anyone has done any research on that knows that the energy source will become more costly, cause more pollution, and eventually, as it has already, become so unaffordable people are reaching for other alternatives for renewable energy.

One way to beat today's energy crisis is with solar power. In places that have this unlimited resource available, solar panels will convert the suns energy into electricity. Photovoltaic cells, or modules, are made of a special material such as silicon. Once the light strikes the material, a certain portion of the absorbed light is transferred to the silicon material which will create the electricity. This explanation given is very basic and there is much more to it than that, but I think you get the idea. A simple example would be a calculator of how it won't work when there isn't enough light or the screen is very hard to read.

In areas that are non-shady and have plenty of sun during the day, the energy can be stored and consumed later to run simple appliances and even power a whole house, depending on the system and the angle that the panel is placed etc. You can have companies that specialize come out and install a system for thousands of dollars or, if you want to save some of that hard earned cash, you can build your own for a fraction of the cost.

Think about this, educate yourself on Solar And Wind Power-Green Living From Homemade Energy, you can put money back into your pocket through Government incentives. For example, did you know if you purchase plans and build a wind generator or solar panels with Obama's home energy grant program you can be rewarded by the Federal Government by receiving funding to help with their plan on reducing our dependence on fossil fuels? This is one of their top agenda items for 2009. Depending on what you do, there has been reported funding of anywhere from $600-$2000! That's a lot of money!

For thousands of years, dating back to around 2000 B.C. the windmills were used to produce grain, and even as far back as 5500 years ago to propel sailboats, civilizations have been using the wind for many different uses. With the technology of today, wind generators can produce electricity and that electricity can be stored as well for consumption as a renewable energy source. When the wind blows through the blades, the blades turn a shaft and that shaft turns a generator which in turn produces electrical energy.

Wind farms are becoming more popular to utilize the kinetic energy of the wind to turn a wind turbine or generator for electricity. These large and very expensive wind generators help power cities and rural areas to lessen the costs of fossil fuels. Why wouldn't we want to utilize free energy instead of paying our power companies? Wind generators can produce electricity just like solar panels and can be installed from companies for a high dollar also. These wind turbines can be built on a smaller scale also by the average homeowner at a very reasonable cost and will produce energy to run just about anything or everything in your house, depending on the size that you build.

It is possible to generate enough from Solar And Wind Power-Green Living From Homemade Energy is simple and you could get the power company to buy back the energy that you don't use. So you see, with the energy from the sun and wind (free energy), incentives from the Government, the power company buying back power that you don't use, you really can't lose by going green. Until next time.

Conserving and utilizing what elements we have for free is where Green Living starts. Solar and Wind Power have great advantages over paying the power company. Would you like to become independent? Find Out More Here

Green Building

Many people are interested in Green Building and Materials these days and have asked me many questions about building green. I decided to share the answers here so everyone can learn.

What is Green Building?

Green Building is about creating a project that is energy efficient, eco-friendly, and has sustainable design. A structure designed to conserve resources and reduce negative impacts on the environment, whether it is energy, water, building materials or land.

What does LEED stand for?

Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design. LEED Green Building Rating System is the nationally accepted benchmark for the design, construction and operation of high performance green buildings put forth by the United States Green Building Council (USGBC).

What makes a given product Green?

To keep it simple remember the three R's

Reuse - Reduce - Recycle

Whenever we can reuse a product instead of producing a new one from raw materials we save on resource use and energy.

Products that reduce material use are considered green. For example, concrete staining can turn concrete slabs into attractive finished floors, eliminating the need for conventional finish flooring.

Taking a material at the end of its useful life and recycling it to make another product is considered green. For example, plastic bottles after use can be recycled into carpet.

Can you list some Green Building Materials?

There are so many "new" green materials popping up all over the place. Here are a few new ones that interested me and I'm considering using for the new, soon-to-be-built green eco-friendly spec home in Paradise Valley.

Soy-Crete - Yes it's made from Soy. It's a soybased concrete stain that is non hazardous, low VOC (volatile organic content), acid free and looks just like acid stained concrete flooring - only healthier.

Eco Top - used for countertops - it's composed of FSC (forest council certified) bamboo blend and mixed with recycled wood fibers. It is available in 7 colors. It won't fade and is extremely durable.

Natural Clay Earth Plaster - adds a rich texture to walls. It's available in 43 colors. A nice bonus is it's fade resistant, non toxic and easy to repair.

Denim Insulation - made from recycled denim. No they're not digging out your old blue jeans from the landfill, instead they're using the scrapes from the manufacturers. It's 100% recyclable and formaldehyde free. And it won't itch like the fiberglass type.

2008 SANDELLA CUSTOM HOMES AND INTERIORS, LLC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

Please don't hesitate to contact me if you'd like further information.

Need help with your project? Start a Design Notebook. Get the FREE how to guide at http://www.sandella.net and click on FREE STUFF!

About Cheryl:
Cheryl Sandella, Interior Designer ASID Allied Member, works with her husband and partner of 30 years, Al Sandella, General Contractor. They own Sandella Custom Homes and Interiors in Fountain Hills Arizona and design and build homes in the valley.

WANT TO USE THIS ARTICLE IN YOUR E-ZINE OR WEB SITE? You can, as long as you include this complete blurb with it: Cheryl Sandella, Interior Designer publishes a monthly eZine called "Bespoke Home". If you want Tools, Tips and Guidance to design and build your custom home, be sure to get your complimentary subscription at http://sandella.net

Cheryl Sandella
Sandella Custom Homes & Interiors
PO Box 18132
Fountain Hills, AZ 85269
480.836.1543 - office
480.816.4233 - Cheryl's personal line
bespokehomeezine@ymail.com

Renewable Home Made Energy Review - Is it For You?

Due to the fact that electricity is continuing its climb on into figures of disbelief people are leaning toward solar and wind energy to supplement their check books. There are kits one can now buy that give step by step instructions of how to build your own renewable energy system with low cost and the materials are easily bought at your local hardware store. With a little elbow grease and the ability to follow instructions you can be on your way to living off the Grid in no time and feel that awesome satisfaction of joining the already members who have crossed over to independent living.

When I first heard about alternative energy and living off the Grid I felt insecure because I thought it meant giving up most of my modern amenities to live in such a way. I was not a granola type, whose modest ways coincide with fewer technologies, say the TVs, ACs, etc. An important fact I learned, and we are never to old to take on new fashion, anyone can benefit by freeing Mother Nature from the unhealthy chains of humanity. If we all do our part in some small way, it adds up. The increased demand for renewable energy technology has led to the development of more efficient and easy to use components to make the change from traditional to a more sane way of life for anyone willing to be mindful of their energy consumption.

It does not have to be difficult to use renewable energy sources to produce electricity; it is fairly simple and affordable. The major resources needed are the Sun solar power, and Wind or Water from which you will harness a low voltage direct current that is then converted, using an inverter, into usable house current (AC). The excess current generated by your system is stored in battery banks where it can be retrieved during the times when more energy is in high demand or when your direct energy source is unavailable. No worries! No special attention is needed other than maintenance of your batteries and monitoring your energy use to make sure you do not exceed your supply with your demand. When the decision has been made to purchase and install your off the grid renewable power source just make sure you size your system to meet the demand of your energy needs.

It is a pleasurable feeling of energy freedom. Besides being proud of your efforts to venture out and do your part for global warming; best of the best delight you may never have to worry about a power outage again!

Is Renewable Home Made Energy for You?

To read and learn much more about this fantastic way of living free!

Lighten Up a Room!

As we welcome winter's cooler temperatures, we're faced with shorter days and diminishing light. By drawing light into a room, you reduce energy needs and maximize the season's waning light.

Day lighting is created by using natural light rather than generating through electricity. 40% of heat that escapes and 50% of solar heat that enters your home is through windows. Energy efficiency is especially important during cold winters and sun-saturated summers.

With efficient window coverings, you can control how much natural light comes into your room, and direct that light to where it's needed. In cooler weather, window coverings help prevent heat inside from escaping. Window shade cells trap cold air, decreasing the intensity as it enters the room, which translates into significant utility bill savings. A triple cell honeycomb shade will increase efficiency more than double on a double-glaze window. Effective window coverings will protect furniture and floors against harmful UV rays.

Innovative blinds offer many options, such as, top down to let light in while maintaining privacy. Window coverings go beyond energy savings by enhancing the beauty of your home by adding a splash of colour on the inside, while maintaining white to the outside. Motorization using home automation controls blinds automatically based on the sun to keep heat in or out, depending on the season.

Through home automation, lights can be dimmed and automatically turned off after a period of time or inactivity in a room. When you leave your house or go to sleep, home automation can turn all lights, TVs, stereos, and appliances off with a single button. House temperature can be regulated through home automation.

Isn't it time to take control?

Garage Doors Insulated With Polyurethane Foam Are More Energy Efficient

No matter where you live having an insulated garage is a great feature on any home. There is nothing worse than walking from a warm house to a cold car even if it is inside your garage. You really cannot start your car and warm it up in the garage without endangering the rest of the family with carbon monoxide poisoning. The only alternative is to insulate your garage. If you happen to have a workshop in or attached to your garage you will find that it is only comfortable to work in during the fall and spring months due to excessive heat or cold. If the walls of your garage are already insulated then you will have no problem making it more energy efficient. Of course garage doors insulated well are also necessary.

An insulated garage that features insulated windows and garage doors insulated correctly will make your garage into a four season comfort zone.The same goes if your garage has a side entrance door. It also should have more than a simple uninsulated storm door. Purchasing a quality insulated door will go a long way to keep your garage warm or cool depending on the season. Of course the greatest energy is lost is through the garage door. Most garage doors insulated with Styrofoam sheets are not very energy efficient. In terms of garage doors prices a quality insulated garage door will save you money.

Garage doors insulated with loose sheets of Styrofoam have lots of gaps for cold air to escape through. Most garage door companies use this cheap form of insulation because it is basically cheap. They defend the practice by saying it is cheaper to replace a damaged panel by simply using the same insulating panel. Polyurethane foam filled panels provide a much higher R value than the less efficient styrene panels at about the same cost. Garage doors insulated with polyurethane have no gaps because the foam fills and attaches to the inside of every part of the panel. No air gaps to let cold air in or out. In addition garage doors insulated with urethane foam are stronger making them more secure.

Good foam panel the garage door must have good joint seals between panels. Good seals are also needed along the door header and sides as well. Most quality doors will have a good seal on the bottom panel. It should be thick enough and flexible enough to fit the contour of the garage floor. All door seals should be able to remain flexible no matter what the temperature is or their insulating value will be greatly reduced. Garage doors insulated with polyurethane foam generally will have good long lasting vinyl end, top and bottom caps to protect the foam insulation from environmental degradation.

Making the effort to insulate your garage will pay dividends in energy conservation while giving you a warm garage in winter and a cool one in summer. In many cases the heat capture from that escaping from the residence will be enough to keep the garage comfortable on most winter days. Remember garage doors insulated with polyurethane foam provide the highest R value if they are constructed with the proper seals. A quality garage doors cost can be recovered can easily recovered through energy savings.

James Kesel, MS, is the publisher of the Garage Doors Pricing Website located at http://www.garagedoorspricing.com - Providing information on garage doors insulated with polyurethand and the purchasing, installing and operation of a garage door.

Green Your Kitchen

Has going green become a mission in your life? Are you looking for ways to change your family and home for the better of the planet? If so, start with your kitchen. With a few simple choices, you can find options that make your kitchen ecologically friendly.

Make natural surface cleaners. There are several natural options for creating homemade surface cleaners to replace the over-perfumed and chemical sprays of store-bought cleaners. The simplest and most effective homemade cleaners use baking soda, lemon juice and water. This combination removes odors, offers scrubbing capabilities and leaves a fresh scent once the surface is clean. A second option is a mixture of white vinegar and water though people don't always like the scent that remains.

For stains and soap scum, make a paste. The first cleanser requires a tablespoon of baking soda, a squeeze of lemon and a teaspoon of warm water. Mix the three together to form a paste for scrubbing surfaces. Add some additional water if needed.

Use a spray for surface cleaning. Use the same ingredients to make a non-scrubbing cleaner to wipe down surfaces to clean and sanitize them. Combine a cup of warm water with a tablespoon of baking soda and a teaspoon of lemon juice in a spray bottle. Spray surfaces that need cleaning and wipe down with a clean, dry cloth.

Simplify recycling. If your family isn't joining you on the environmental bandwagon, you might need to make the process simpler for them. Consider placing three bins under the kitchen sink so that the containers are easily separated. Or designate one family member each week to sort the garbage every day. After a few weeks, everyone will be sorting ahead of time so they don't have to sort through the trash at the end of the day.

Make the switch to organic. The final step to greening your kitchen is the hardest one. Start picking up your produce from the local farmers market or from the organic aisles in your grocery store. The switch to organic foods will keep the pesticides and unnatural chemicals from invading your kitchen in the first place. Though the change can be expensive, think of it as an investment in the future of the planet.

Renata Lavlor writes clean green tips and other housekeeping tips for HowToDoThings.com.

How to Make DIY a Solar Panel

If you are interested to know how you can make diy solar panels, you have arrived at the right place. Here we will discuss the preparation and material required for making diy solar panels. Once you make a diy solar panel, you can use them for converting solar energy to the electrical energy. These diy solar panels are essentially required for making a solar cell and therefore you should correctly make these panels so that highest efficiency of the final solar electricity generator is achieved.

First of all for getting the highest efficiency, you will need to select the right place and it can be either your backyard or your roof or garden. You will need to set these diy solar panels there and at such angle so that they get the maximum solar energy falling on roof or backyard. The smaller units are known photovoltaic cells and you will need to stack these cells one after another horizontally.

Although you will easily get diy solar panel in the market and if you want to make these for your residential use, you will have to purchase the following material from the market. These are easily available in electric stores and you can get all the items within $200.

1. Copper sheet
2. Two alligator copper clip leads
3. An electric stove
4. Wide mouth plastic or glass container
5. A multimeter for reading current in the range up to 15/20 microampere.
6. Accessories including scissors, sand paper, salt, water and sand paper.

You will need an easily available DIY (Do It Yourself) guide so that you can make diy solar panel from the material as mentioned above.

Earth4Energy is Such a guide. Once you go through earth4energy, you can easily assemble panels. Once your diy solar panels are ready, you will start getting solar energy of sun getting converted to electricity through these assemblies and thus will be saving huge amount per month, which would have otherwise been paid as electricity bill. Check out Earth4Energy Review

Alternative Energy For the Home That Works

If you want to lower the cost of your electricity bills, you have only a few options, but one of the very best is to find alternative energy for the home. This sounds like a job for the professionals and for a lot of people it might even sound like having to share bath water, but that's no longer the case.

With the advances in technology, we can live the same life we live right now, but have far less negative effect on the environment. The great thing is, it's all starting to cost less and less and some of the ideas are so easy and simple, you'll want to know why more people don't do it.

The two best options available are:-

1. Solar Panels

Solar panels have come a long way in the last few years. You no longer have to live in an area that has extensive sunlight in order for them to work effectively. Most people looking at this option have encountered merchants who charge excessive amounts of money for the hardware and installation, making it difficult to afford and once you have it installed, you are at the mercy of the technicians to keep it working. Fortunately, that has all begun to change. The technology behind these energy gatherers is so simple that just about anyone would be able to build them with a few items from the local DIY store. The result is that you are able to build them at your own pace, develop them and maintain them. They not only lower your monthly electricity bills, but they also get you more involved in your environment.

If you have the energy and the desire to take on a home project, then you can make a professional looking 80Watt panel in your garage at a cost of no more than a few hundred dollars. You can use this system to run your refrigerator, your washing machine or your tv. With the ability to build, you can make multiple panels to cater for all your household electrical needs.

2. Wind Generators

If you are looking for alternative energy for your home and you have a lot of wind, then you may want to invest in wind generators. There are some very good marine generators that are utilized on yachts that would suit a small household and again, there is the possibility of producing your own for a reasonable cost of around a hundred dollars.

Not much technical skill is required in order to build a wind generator. The principles behind the generation and conversion of power are easy to follow and comprehend and they can easily be attached to the top of your home.

Converting to alternative energy in the home not only decreases your monthly electricity bills, but can in fact lead to the power companies paying you for excess energy you may be plying back into the grid. The advantages go beyond just decreasing bill, but to a sense of achievement, a feeling of contributing to the planets wellbeing and to a cleaner, better planet for the next generation.

Stove Smith has lived off grid for a few years on a remote island in Central America and discovered that with the aid of new technology, going green doesn't have to mean going hippy. A tech savvy guy with a passion for saving money and saving the planet. Take a look at how you can cut your bills without spending a fortune and do your bit for the planet while you're at it - http://www.no9to5ers.com

Renewable Energy - It's Our Future

Renewable Energy it's Our Future Saving energy and it's links to topics like green house gases and global warming. Indications show we are aware of the problem that faces all of us and most of us would like to save energy, money and the environment. Fears of fossil fuel and their effects from there usage on our environment is a very real fear. Renewable energy must be used for the future of our planet and our children, and mankind itself. a few small steps has been made in the right direction regarding these issues. Solar energy is a very positive approach to the global warming problem as with wind generated energy and many other environmentally friendly energy generation systems which will enable us to lessen the effects and use of fossil fuels in our environment.

Change must be made and all of us must be willing to do our part for that change to occur. Legislation should be made to promote advancement and use in solar, wind and hydro power. Government as well as big business and their share holders must see that making money with their high profits and large management salaries are not helping in the progress for this to happen. Advancement is design and mass production in solar panels is needed to bring their cost down for the average person to afford. Electrical energy feed back into the power grid and refunds paid by a fair price.

This will enable house owners to save money and the cost of living will go down, in some cases earn refunds for excess energy provided to the power company. At present rivers and damns are running dry, droughts, loss of food crops and live stock all add to the cost of the cost of living for all of us today. Now we must act each and every one of us to get our government to act. Sea water could be used to help drought ravaged areas. Just these small steps will bring down the cost of food, fuel and our living. So what are you waiting for?

Mick Purcell Renewable Energy Resource Right Here!

Energy Saving