| First of all, it is much easier and less expensive to | | | | Installing the proper insulation is critical. Different areas |
| build a green house from scratch than it is to | | | | of your house will require different types of |
| transform an existing building. Nothing has to be | | | | insulation; whether it is a roll insulation, blankets, loose |
| demolished or redesigned; thus saving time and | | | | fill or foam. Be sure to check the R-value when |
| money. In addition to this, with a new build, you are | | | | installing it. Determine which energy-efficient heating |
| free to orient your house in such a way that it | | | | cooling system is just right for your house. Look for |
| maximizes the full benefits of the sun. | | | | the government's Energy Star certification label on |
| Positioning your house so that the windows are able | | | | them. Ceiling fans will help cool your rooms; thus |
| to gather any available natural sunlight in the winter | | | | reducing the need to use the air conditioner. Install |
| months is brilliant planning. Natural lighting has, also, | | | | high-efficient lighting systems that can be dimmed by |
| been shown to have a positive impact on a person's | | | | remote controls. Apply light colored shingles to the |
| heath and well being. Taking advantage, as much as | | | | roof. |
| possible, of any existing shade trees will help protect | | | | Design your water system to include ultra low-flush |
| your home from the extreme heat of the | | | | toilets, point-of-use hot water spigots and low-flow |
| mid-summer months. Surveys show that up to 50 to | | | | showers. Front load washers use 40 percent less |
| 70 percent of the energy used in the home is for | | | | water and 50 percent less energy than top-loading |
| heating and cooling. The above things are essentially | | | | washers. Assemble clothes poles and lines for natural |
| free. By implementing some simple design strategies | | | | outdoor drying. You save on energy and your clothes |
| you can greatly lower your energy needs. | | | | have a wonderful clean fresh scent to them. |