Since about 60% of a home’s yearly energy expenditure is spent on running the boiler,
it stands to reason that by replacing an old one with a new one will make a big impact
on your energy bills.

By replacing an elderly and inefficient boiler with a high-efficiency condensing one that
has an A-rating, you will find that you not only will save around 360 Euros per year—and
you will also reduce your home’s carbon emissions significantly.

How Much Can Be Saved?
The exact amount you will save by replacing your old boiler depends greatly on how that
old and inefficient your current one is.

Old boiler rating              Annual saving   Carbon dioxide savings per year

G ( < 70%)                           €360                       1,220kg

F (70–74%)                          €220                       810kg

E (74–78%)                          €180                       610kg

D (78–82%)                         €125                       420kg

These figures are based on the installation of a brand-new, A-rated high-efficiency condensing
boiler with a complete complement of heating controls for a semi-detached, three-bedroom
home with all-gas heating.

Boiler replacement costs vary, but a simple gas boiler replacement normally costs about €2,760.

Why are newer Boilers more Efficient
Newer boilers are more energy-efficient for many reasons. The main reason is due to the fact
that all modern boilers are condensing boilers. A well-maintained boiler burns its fuel efficiently,
but non-condensing models will inevitably lose some of their heat through the escape of hot
gases, which means more fuel needs to be expended to maintain the level of heat desires.
Condensing boilers have bigger heat exchangers, which mean they recover more heat than non-
condensing models, sending cooler gases up the flue, which is more energy-efficient.

Sometimes, the gases that escape through the flue in a condensing boiler are actually cool enough
that the water vapor condenses, which allows the boiler to recuperate more energy from the
condensing vapor. This further increases the boiler’s energy efficiency.

New Boiler Installation
Should you need to change out your old boiler, the first order of business is deciding what kind
of new boiler is needed.

The Correct Fuel
If your heating system has mains gas, then the cheapest type of heating system for your home is
usually going to be a gas boiler.

If your home currently has a boiler that uses oil, coal, or LPG, you should look into how feasible
having gas supplied to the home would be financially. Should there be no gas pip nearby this
isn’t an affordable0 option, but if the pipeline is just around the block, it may be worth investing
in a new gas connection to obtain a more inexpensive fuel type. There are even grants that can
help cover the cost of connecting.

The correct Boiler
The majority of older gas and liquid oil boilers are regular boilers, with a separate water heating
cylinder instead of hot water being obtained directly from the boiler itself. When you are ready to
replace your boiler, you will have the option of purchasing a new regular boiler and retaining the
hot water cylinder, or purchasing a combination boiler without a cylinder.

Regular boilers are more efficient at heating water than a regular boiler, but a lot of the heat is lost
in the hot water cylinder. This means that a combination boiler system is often more energy efficient.
The right option for your home depends on several factors, such as:

How much hot water does your family need/consume?
Large families usually use a lot of hot water, so they might be better suited with a regular boiler,
while smaller families may be better suited with a combination boiler.

How much space do you have available for the boiler?
Combination boilers don’t need a hot water cylinder and are thus more space-efficient.

Are you considering installing a solar water heating system?
Many combination boiler systems aren’t compatible with solar systems or else can’t use the solar
heat very effectively.

Once you have chosen the boiler type you feel is right for your home, you must then narrow down
the most energy-efficient model and have it installed properly. By choosing a boiler that is rated for
the highest level of efficiency by the Energy Saving Trust, you know that you will get a product that
has been evaluated properly.

Heat recovery products and systems
Heat recovery systems that are recommended by SEAI will save as much as 17% of the energy
expended in heating the water in your home. A portion of the heat that is generated by your
home’s boiler actually escapes through its flue. By capturing some of this lost energy and using
it to heat the water, passive flue gas heat recovery systems make your home more energy efficient
and shave away substantially at your energy and heating bills.

Hot Water Cylinders
Hot water cylinders that have earned the Energy Saving Trust Recommended seal are factory
insulated, which means they keep the hot water at the desired temperature for a longer time.
These cylinders have an important part in dispensing hot water when you want it, so it is vital
that they are completely insulated to keep as much heat from escaping as possible.

By upgrading your home’s hot water cylinder to a model that is Energy Saving Trust Recommended,
you can  save around € 48 per year. These cylinders are highly insulated and ready to install, so be
sure to look for the appropriate label when you’re in the market for a cylinder that will save the most
energy (and, therefore, money).

A solar Panel system used in Ireland generally comprise of all or most of the following components. Optimization of these is important to obtain best benefits desired.

• Solar Collector –
  As the name implies its function is to absorb the beams
  of energy that impinge on it for beneficial use later.
  The most popular place for the collector is the roof
  top of a building. The best orientation of the panel
  for optimum year round solar thermal energy
  absorption is facing south. When it comes to the
  tilt the best positioning will be  30 ⁰ – 45 ⁰, but
  when this is not possible, any tilt angle between
  15 ⁰ to 50 ⁰ (to the horizontal) would be satisfactory.
  The commonly used types of collectors are (a)
  Flat Plate design and (b) Evacuated tube design.
  The later is better for energy efficiency but is
  more expensive. If you are interested in getting a
  rebate for your installation evacuated tube type
  provides the higher grant.
• The Cylinder -
  The collector cylinder sizing is important as too small a tank would over heat the water.
  Too large a tank would take a longer time to heat up water and may also not be heated to the required temperature. (It will be bad economy as well).
  The minimum permitted storage temperature of hot water is 60 ⁰ presently to prevent Legionella growth.
  The heat of water off the cylinder therefore should be a few degrees at least higher (to allow for heat loss in transit).

The recommended aperture sizes for the cylinders are:

Maximum cylinder temperature 60 ⁰ C     – Aperture equivalent area = 70 m²
Maximum cylinder temperature 80 ⁰-90 ⁰ C – Aperture equivalent area = 50 m²

In climates similar to that in Ireland the type of cylinders called Dual Coil design  should be preferred.
The bottom coil is connected to the Collector while the top level coil is connected to a auxiliary circuit meant for a supplementary hot water            source.

• The Heat Storage –
  This is really an insulated tank which stores the thermal energy rich water flowing out of the Collector.
  This method of storing solar energy is so simple and basic, creating little or no problems for the end user during its life time.
  Being an insulated tank the preferred location is indoors.
• Pump-
  The circulation pump may be standard domestic power supply operated or from a solar PV panel array generated power operated.
  In Ireland the preferred is the former.
  The pump is responsible for transferring the Thermal Energy of the sun collected by the collector to the storage unit.
• Safety and Regulatory devices -
  The Hot water system deals in very hot water (which sometimes reaches boiling point) and also hydraulic circuits pressurized to at least some low pressure.
  The appropriate safety devices such as suitable piping material, thermostats, gauges, relief valves, shut-off, regulatory and mixing valves etc should be incorporated in the system.
• Auxiliary Heat Source -
  In Ireland in winter the solar thermal power is not that reliable for your total requirement, though it is available throughout the year.
  At best only about 60% of the total heat requirement would be met during this period or in bad weather. An auxiliary source of thermal energy such as a Pellet Stove/boiler, gas, oil or wood fueled heat source, electric heaters, etc  therefore need to be incorporated in a system as a back-up.
• Lagging – What ever the type of hot water system you go for one important aspect not to ignore is a good lagging/ insulation. Well lagged piping, cylinder and components would save many Euros for you which in turn would help your efforts for a preserved environment.
  The popular insulation material suitable are:

a) Fiberglass/Rock/Mineral wool, preformed pipe/cylinder covers

b) Cellular Foam sheet, preformed pipe/cylinder covers

c) EPS foam (fire retardant) preformed pipe covers and slabs

It is important to decide on correct thickness, density, U factor, moisture barrier and cladding for a good worthwhile installation.
Here it is best to get the assistance of a good contractor/supplier in order to select the best for your application.

Whether you realize it or not, the water coming out of your bathroom or kitchen tap requires
a great deal of energy to get it there, especially when it’s heated water. By using less water,
you will save money. Here are some helpful tips on saving water, both inside and outside the home.

Inside the house

Showers, Not Baths
By replacing one tub bath per week with a five minute
shower instead, you will save around €22 per year in
gas costs, and as much as €25 per year in water costs,
if you have metered water.

Update Your Hardware
Inefficient or worn-out shower heads increase water
and gas costs. By replacing an old shower head with
one that is more water-efficient (low flow), you could
save as much as €87 per year in gas costs and about
the same amount in water costs. That’s a substantial
savings of €144!

No Half Measures

By running your dishwasher and clothes washer at full capacity and at the most energy and water-efficient settings, you will save significantly. When you eventually need to replace these appliance, always make sure to choose one that has the Energy Saving Recommended designation. This logo certifies that the product has been deemed energy and water-efficient.

Suds law

When it’s time to do the dishes by hand, use a sinkful of water twice daily instead of letting the hot water run. By doing this, you can save about €30 per year on water costs, if you have metered water. Also, rinse things like utensils and vegetables with cold water, and don’t let the tap run.

Boil a Cup, Drink a Cup

Kettles consume a substantial amount of energy for their size, so when you want a cuppa, only boil the amount of water you need at that time. This little hint alone can reduce your yearly energy bills by €9! Think about it: if everyone in the UK did this, the power saved could run all the public streetlights in the UK for a month!

Turn Off the Tap

A running tap in the bathroom or kitchen wastes in excess of six litres of water per minute. When you’re brushing your teeth, washing your face, shaving, etc., turn the water off until you need it again, rather than leaving it running. Also, use cold water unless absolutely necessary.

Stop the Drips

More than 5,500 litres of water can be wasted by a dripping tap in the space of a year, so always make sure the tap is turned off completely, and change worn out washers right away when the tap starts to drip.

Waste Not, Want Not

Be a smart steward of the environment by reusing water whenever you can. For instance, if your children don’t drink their full glass of water, pour the un-drunk water on houseplants, or dump it into a stoppered sink to use to wash dishes in later. When you are waiting for the hot water to arrive, catch the cold water that comes out first in a jug or pitcher and put it into the refrigerator as drinking water for later.

Outside the house

Get a Butt

Did you realize that your roof catches tens of thousands of litres of water per year, but that it is wasted by running directly into the drains? Invest in a water butt, which will watch and collect all that water, which can then be used for things like watering the garden and washing your car. Additionally, rainwater is much softer than tap water, which makes it better for the plants in your garden and houseplants.

Don’t Kick the Bucket

Don’t take your car to those energy-wasting jet washes and car washes; instead, get the bucket and sponge out of garage and get to work. Not only is it more ecologically sound (especially if you use water from a water butt), it’s also a good workout.

An un-insulated home loses around a quarter of its head through the roof. By simply
insulating an attic or loft you will effectively save energy and lower your heating costs
significantly, which translates into a savings of money and a reduction in the demand
for fossil fuels. Over the years, insulation will pay for itself several times over. Installing
insulation in your home can also be a DIY project.

Why Insulate?
Should your home’s loft already be insulated, it is still wise to check
whether it is sufficiently insulated to guarantee maximum savings
on your energy bill. One interesting fact: if every one in the United
Kingdom had 27mm f loft insulation, almost £500 million could be
saved in energy costs every year, not to mention the 2.7 million
tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions that wouldn’t be leaked into
the atmosphere. This is the equivalent of removing almost 100,000
automobiles  from the road!

Choosing Your Loft Insulation
Lofts with easy access, regularly joist placement, and few dampness or condensation issues are normally quite easy to insulate using mineral wool. This  material comes in a roll that
can be laid in a layer between the loft’s joists, which are the horizontal beams composing
the loft floor. Once  this has been done, another layer can be laid at perpendicular angles
to cover up the joists and bring the insulation’s depth up to the desired depth.  This should
be done by a qualified individual, whether it is a DIY project or a professional job.

Insulating Attic Living Spaces
If your loft or attic is a living space, a flooring of boards will need to be laid overthe joists.
However, only insulating between joists prior to laying this flooring won’t give sufficient
insulation depth. To ensure proper depth, take these measures:

• Lay mineral wool insulation between joists, then place rigid insulating board atop
  this, with wooden floorboards atop those. Purchasing pre- bonded insulation
  boarding makes the job even easier. Or, you can:
• Raise the floor level to fit sufficient boards on top.

Regardless, do not squash or compress the mineral wool when mounting the floorboards,
as that will reduce the value and effectiveness of the insulation. The floorboards must be
measured and cut to the proper width, ensuring that they will have a snug fit between the
roof rafters, and then plasterboard can be placed on top. Rafters are not normally deep, so
in order to get the best level of performance you might need to insulate them correctly, using
insulated plaster board.

Insulating Lofts and Attics with Difficult Access
Hard-to-access lofts and attics may need blown insulation, which must be installed
professionally. This installation requires specialised equipment , which blows a loose,
fire- retardant cellulose or mineral wool insulation material into the loft space. This
installation normally only takes a couple of hours.

Irregular Joist Placement
Should your loft have irregular joist placement, meaning they  are too close or too
far apart to place rolled mineral wool or that there are too many obstructions to lay
matting, loose-fill insulation is an option. Loose -fill insulation is sold in bags, and
is comprised of granules of  cork, mineral wool, vermiculite, or cellular fibres, all of
which can be poured between roof joists to the desired depth. This is a project  suited
for DIY-ers or for professionals. Loose-fill insulation may require increasing the joists’
height to make sure the insulation is deep enough.

Insulating Damp Lofts
Your insulated loft will be a lot cooler, since the insulation keeps heat from escaping
the  living spaces—which can also aggravate pre-existing dampness or condensation
issues.  Consult with a professional prior to installing insulation about whether the
dampness problems can be fixed before installing the insulation, to prevent exacerbating
the situation.

With the right controls for your heating system, you can keep the home’s temperature
at a comfortable level without wasting heat or heating fuel; this means you will reduce
your home’s carbon footprint and save money on utility bills at the same time.

If you utilize a heating and hot water system with electrical storage, which charges up
during off-peak hours (usually at night) and release the stored heat during peak hours,
your heating system will need different controls installed.

If your home has a ‘wet’ central heating system, this means your home is heated via a system of pipes filled with water that is heated by a boiler. This boiler may be oil-fired, or run off of LPG or regular gas. The full set of controls for such a system should, under ideal circumstances, include a thermostat for the boiler, a programmable timer, a thermostat for the room(s) to be heated, and thermostatic radiator valves (TRVs).

What Kind of Savings Can You Expect?
Regardless of how old your boiler is, with the correct controls, you will able to set your central heating unit and water heater to be turned on or off when they are needed, to heat specific parts of your home, and set the temperature you desire for each heat and hot water. Take a look at the typical
savings you could expect in an average three bedroom, semi- detached house with a gas heating system:

•        With the installation of a room thermostat if there was none: €90 and as much as
280kg carbon dioxide/year

•        With a thermostat for the hot water tank: €36 and as much as 130kg carbon dioxide/year

•        With the addition of an insulation jacket for the hot water tank: €48 and as much as
170kg carbon dioxide/year.

Additional savings can be obtained by using your thermostatic controls more effectively:

•        By turning your room’s thermostat down by just one degree, you will save approximately
€66 and as much as 230kg carbon dioxide/year.

It is possible to add heating controls or upgrade existing ones without the need to replace
your home’s boiler. This is a very good idea if the heating controls in your home are more
than twelve years old. Today’s room thermostats offer much better accuracy than older
ones.

Temperature controls

Room thermostats
Room thermostats maintain a constant temperature in your home. When the temperature
drops, the thermostat turns on the heat until the temperature reaches the desired level,
and them the thermostat turns the heat off.

To work properly, a room thermostat needs free-flowing air, so that it may accurately sense
the temperature in your home, so they should not be obstructed by things like curtains or
pieces of furniture, or positioned close to heat sources.

The room thermostat in your home should be set to the lowest possible temperature that
you find comfortable—this is typically within the range of 18°C to 21°C. Adjust your room
thermostat down one or two degrees and see if the new temperature still feels comfortable
to you.

Also, you don’t need to turn up the heat on your system just because the weather outside
turns colder; your thermostat will keep your home at the desired temperature regardless
of the weather. This might take a few minutes longer on extremely cold days, so program
your heating system to switch on a little earlier during the winter months.

A room thermostat that is programmable offers additional features: it includes a timer and
permits you to program multiple temperature settings for various times of the day. You
may also have different temperature settings for multiple rooms if your heating system
includes thermostatic radiator valves (TRVs) on single radiators.

Thermostatic radiator valves (TRVs)
Thermostatic radiator valves are sensors that detect the air’s temperature near them and
adjust the flow of heated water through the radiator they designated for. They don’t act as
controls for your home’s boiler. These can be set for individually for the room to the level
you choose: lower settings require less energy, and you will save money as a result.

Please note: Radiator covers are not recommended since thermostatic radiator valves
(TRVs) detect the temperature of the air around them, and adjust the flow of heated water
accordingly depending on the temperature setting. By covering the radiator you also
enclose the TRV, which will likely fool it into thinking the room is warmer than it truly is,
since heat will get trapped between the cover and the radiator.

If your home already has covers over the radiators and these can’t be removed, it is still
worthwhile to use TRVs for temperature control as often as possible, even though the
radiator would work more effectively to heat the room space if it were not covered. If
you feel that the radiator does heat sufficiently at a certain temperature setting, turn the
TRV up.

Zone control
You can also save quite a bit of money by not overdoing the heat in areas of your home
that don’t get used often or do not need as high a temperature—some examples would
be rooms that have lot of glazing or extra bedrooms. Your heating system can include
extra heating circuits that include a separate programmer and rooms thermostat (or a
combination unit) or you can set heating zones with thermostatic radiator valves (TRVs).

Cylinder thermostat
If the hot water in your home gets stored in a hot water storage cylinder, the unit’s thermostat
will maintain the water temperature at the proper level. Once the temperature of the water
attains the level you have preset, the supply of heat from the boiler shut off.

Setting the thermostat to a higher level will not make the water heat faster, and the water will
not be heated at all if heating has been switched off by a timer or programmer.

Cylinder thermostats are normally situated between 1/4^th and 1/3^rd of the way up the side of
the storage cylinder. They are marked with temperature: they should be set between 60ºC -65ºC.
These temperatures are hot enough to destroy harmful bacteria that may be lurking in the water,
but keep in mind that it is hot enough to cause severe burns as well. As an extra safety precaution,
you may consider having a thermostatic mixing valve installed as well; this unit automatically
makes sure that the hot water coming from the tap remains at a temperature that is safe.

Boiler interlock
This is a wiring system that shuts off the boiler when it is not needed by either the room thermostat
or the cylinder thermostat. Without this wiring system, the boiler would be allowed to continue to
‘cycle’, which wastes energy.

Boiler thermostat
Your home’s boiler should have a temperature dial that is marked with numbers or settings
from Minimum to Maximum. This allows you to set the water temperature for the water that
is to be pumped from the boiler through the system’s radiators, which in turn heat your home.
If your  boiler is set higher, the heating system will warm the home much faster and more
effectively. As a matter of fact, if your boiler is not set to a high enough temperature, your
home’s internal temperature may not reach the thermostatic heat setting during very cold
weather.

If your heating system includes a room thermostat and a boiler interlock, you will be able to set
the thermostat of the very high, and then let the individual room controls adjust the air temperature
within your home appropriately. If, however, ensure that the boiler thermostat is set to a lower
temperature if there is anyone in your household who might be vulnerable to injury by coming
into contact with hot radiators.

You should always set the control thermostat on your boiler to a temperature that is higher than
that of the system’s cylinder thermostat. In most cases regarding boilers, a single thermostat
governs the temperature of the water that is sent to the storage cylinder and radiators; however,
in some instances there are separate thermostats.

Timing controls

Programmer or time control
A programmer or time control automatically switches your heating on or off at predetermined
times; this allows you to not waste heat when you are not in the home or when you do not need
as much heat, for instance when you are sleeping.

Programmers make it possible for you to designate time periods when the heating system is
on or off. Most models allow you to further customize your settings by turning on your home’s
central heating and hot water system individually. Some units also include manual overrides.
Be sure to check if the programmer’s clock is set correctly before you initiate your programmes.
This may need to be adjusted when the times changes as well.

To test your heating system, you should choose a colder evening and note the time it take for your
home to reach a comfortable temperature; this period is called the warm-up time. Afterward, turn
off the heating system completely and see how long it takes for the home’s temperature to become
uncomfortably cold, which is called the cool-down time.

With this information, you will able to program your timers to include the warm-up and cool-down
times. For instance, you would then be able to ensure that the heat turns on soon enough to allow
for the warm-up time and have your home at a comfortable temperature when people begin to wake
up, and turn off before you even leave from your home. If your home is insulated, the warm-up time
will be shortened and the cool-down time will take longer, and you will save money on heating as a
result.

Using programmers, you can set your water heater to activate only when you need hot water:
keeping the water hot all the time uses energy. If your tank or hot water cylinder or tank is
insulated well enough, it may even be the case that water heated in the morning will still be
hot enough for us in the evenings.

What we recommend
Always be sure that when you shop for heating control, the label says Energy Saving Trust
Recommended– this is a guarantee to you that the product you buy meets the highest energy
efficiency standards on the market, as well as that it will help save you money and energy,
no matter what your boiler unit’s age might be.

Here are some examples of Energy Saving Trust Recommended products:

•        automatic bypass valves

•        cylinder thermostats

•        full programmers

•        programmable room thermostats

•        programmers

•        room thermostats

•        thermostatic radiator valves

•        time switches

Hot air goes up, and if your house is not properly insulated, you could lose as much as one
fourth of your heat through your roof. By insulating a loft or attic or even any flat roofs on
your home, you take simple and quite effective measures to cut down on that heat loss and
save money on your heating bills; this is even something you can do yourself.

Insulation in a loft provides effective heat loss prevention for at least forty years, and the
installation of such insulation will pay for itself many times over the course of those four
decades.

How Much Money Could Be Saved?

These estimates are generated based on installing insulation a gas-heated, semi-detached
home that has 3 bedrooms, as compared to a similar home with an uninsulated loft, and
when insulation is upgraded from 100mm of insulation to 270mm. (270mm is the
recommended depth for mineral wool insulation, but other materials may require different
thicknesses).

Even if the loft of your home is already insulated, it would still be worthwhile to double-check to be sure the insulation is of the proper depth, just to be sure you have enough insulation to reap the maximum saving. If every homeowner in the UK installed 270mm thickness of loft insulation, we could save almost €600 million, plus eliminate 2.7 million tonnes of carbon dioxide annually; this is the equivalent of eliminating almost 100,000 cars from the road.

Choosing the Right Loft Insulation

Easy Loft Access and Regularly-Spaced Joists
If your loft is easily accessible and does not have problems with dampness or condensation, it should be very easy to install installation—
this is even a job you could do yourself.

If there is access to the loft and the ceiling has regular joist, you can simply install rolls of
mineral wool insulation. To do this, simply roll out the insulation in the spaces between the
ceiling’s joists (the horizontal beams that constitute the structural strength or ‘floor’ of the
loft). After this, a second layer should be put down perpendicular to the joists to provide a
better seal and to achieve the required depth of insulation. This can be done by either a a
professional installer or a do-it-yourself-er.

Storage Space or Living Space?
If you will need to utilize your loft or attic as a storage space, you will need to build a floor
over thejoists.  Unfortunately, if you only install insulation up to the top of the joists, you
will not have the  necessary thickness of insulation needed to maximize the effectiveness
of the insulation. To solve this problem, you can:

• Use mineral wool to insulate the spaces that are between the joists and supplement this
  rigid insulation boards above it, and place the wooden flooring on top of that.  You can
  even buy insulation board that is pre-bonded to floor boarding to make the job even
  easier.  Or:
• Alternatively, you might raise the floor level higher to accommodate a sufficient thickness
  of mineral wool under the floorboards.

In either case, be sure you do not press down or flatten the mineral wool when you install the
floorboards, as this will decrease the effectiveness of the insulation.

If you would like to utilize the attic for a living area, it is possible to insulate the underside of the
roof rather than the floor. The best way to achieve this is by installing rigid insulation boards in
the spaces between the roof rafters. The insulation boards must be cut properly to ensure a
snug fit between the rafters. These spaces and the installed insulation can then be covered
over with drywall or plasterboards. The spaces between the rafters are not usually very deep,
so to attain the best insulation value it may be necessary to insulate on top of the rafters as well,
using insulated plasterboard.  If you do not have sufficient room to do this, be sure that the
insulation board you use is of the highest performance rating available.

Difficult to access the Attic
If it is hard to access your Attic, you can use blown insulation to create a heat barrier. This type of
insulation must be installed by a professional, who will utilize special equipment to inject loose, fire
-retardant insulating material made up of mineral wool or fibers of cellulose into the loft area. This
job can normally be completed in just a few hours.

Irregular Joists
In the event that you have an irregular loft space, incorrectly distanced joists for rolled insulation,
or other types of obstructions that making using rolls of mineral wool insulation impractical, you
can use loose-fill insulation. This type of insulation material is sold in bags, and can be made up of
mineral wool or cellulose fiber, cork granules, or vermiculite. To install this form of insulation, you
simply pour it into the spaces between the joists to the correct depth. You can do this type of insulation
yourself or hire a professional installer. It may be necessary to raise the height of the joist in order to
achieve the proper insulation depth.

Flat Roofs
It is always preferable to insulate a flat roof by installing the insulation from above. This can be done
by adding rigid insulation board directly on top of the roof timbers with the weatherproofing layer on
top of the insulation, or on top of the existing weatherproofing with a second layer of weatherproofing
on top of that. The best time to do a job such as this is when you already need to replace and existing
roof covering. In fact, to comply with Building Regulations, you must replace your insulation when
your roof covering needs to be replaced.

It is also possible to install insulation for a flat roof from the underside, but if this is not done properly
it will probably lead to problems with condensation. Either way, insulating a flat roof is a job that is best
left to a professional.

Installing insulation on a flat roof could save you as much as €216 and 800kg of carbon dioxide emissions annually if at least half of the area of your roof is flat;  these savings will vary based on how much of the roof area is flat.

Damp or Humid Attic
The purpose of insulation is to help contain heat and prevent its loss from living areas, so your attic
willbe cooler as a result.  If you loft already has problems with dampness and/or condensation, these
problems could get even worse. Seek the advice of a professional before doing any installation of
insulation to see if it is possible to address the dampness issues first.

Pipes, Water Tanks and Loft Hatches
Adding insulation to the spaces between the joists in your loft will increase the warmth of the living areas
of you home, but it will make the loft space itself cooler. Water tanks and/or pipes in the loft space are at
an increased risk of freezing as a result, so these will need to be insulated. If water tanks in your loft are far from the access hatch, there will be an additional need for a safe walkway for when you need to get to them.

The cooler attic air that results from attic insulation could cause cold drafts to enter your home via the
attic access hatch. To address this issue, install an insulated attic hatch and weather seal around the frame edges with strips of draught-excluding material.

In a wood-fuelled heating system, also known as a biomass system, wood chips, pellets,
or logs are burned to generate heat, for either an individual room, to provide a home’s
central heating, or to power water boiler systems.

• Stove use logs or wooden pellets to generate heat for individual rooms, or they might
  also have a back boiler, which heats water.
• Boilers use wood chips, pellets, or logs and are connected to both central and water
  heating systems. Savings reaped from using a wood-fuelled boiler might reach as much
  as €720 per year when compared to electric-only heating. 

  

The Benefits of Using a Wood-Fuelled Heating System

• Affordable heating fuel: though the price of wood used for fuel varies a great deal, it is most often more economical that other sources of heat.
• A low-carbon emissions option: when you burn wood, the emissions of carbon dioxide are exactly equal to the amount of CO2 that was absorbed by the plant during the months of ears it was growing, so no additional carbon dioxide is being introduced to the atmosphere. This is a sustainable process so long as the plants burned for fuel are replaced with new. The process of cultivation of the plants, the manufacture of fuel wood, and the transportation of that fuel wood does
  introduce some additional carbon emissions, but if you utilize locally sourced fuel
  wood, these extra emissions are significantly lower than what would be the case with
  fossil fuels burned for fuel.

Costs and Potential Savings

Up-Front and Maintenance Costs
The typical cost of a pellet stove, with installation included, will be approximately €5,160.
A log stove, on the other hand, will frequently cost less than half that amount, even when
you include a new chimney lining or flue.

Regarding boilers, a pellet boiler with an automatic feed system built for the average home,
including installation, fuel storage unit, flue, and taxes will total approximately €13,800.
Boiler systems that are manually fed logs will cost slightly less.

The cost of pellets will vary depending on the pellet size and how they are delivered. Purchasing
pellets as you need them will make the fuel costs more expensive. If your home has room to store
several tonnes of wood pellets all the time, purchasing bulk pellets delivered by tanker will reduce
the cost as low as €228.

Logs are usually less expensive than wood pellets, but the cost of fuel logs depends on the prices
set by your local area’s wood, since transportation of logs is expensive. If your storage area will
accommodate a year’s supply or more of logs, you could save lots of money on fuel costs by
purchasing logs that are not seasoned and allowing them to sit for a year.

Savings
The savings of carbon dioxide emissions is very significant - about 7.5 tonnes per year of CO2
emissions are eliminated when you replace coal fired or electric systems with wood-fuelled
boilers. The monetary savings vary more - if you are replacing a gas powered heating system
with a system that is wood-burning, your savings may be a little as €120 per year; however,
if the system being replaced is an electric heating system, your savings could amount to up to
€696 per year.

The following table demonstrates your expected savings should you replace a heating system
using another fuel source with a wood pellet burning central heating system in an average 3
bedroom, semi-detached home that features basic insulation:

All of these figures assume that the house is insulated, as it is always recommended that a house
be insulated prior to the installation of a renewable energy system.  Therefore, it is possible for
you to save energy and money from insulating, and then compound those savings by switching
to wood heating as well!

Choosing which kind of Wood-Fuelled Heating System is right for You

• Boiler or stove? Wood-burning boilers can be substituted for a standard oil or gas boiler
  to provide heat to radiators for an entire house, as well as to heat water. Stoves, on the other
  hand, only provide heat to an individual room, and are usually used along with another heating
  system; however, a stove may also be equipped with a back boiler, which provides hot water.
• Wood Chips, Logs, or Pellets? Chips aren’t a suitable fuel for providing heat to a single home,
  but are perfectly acceptable for heating large buildings or groups of homes. Pellets are more
  controllable and are easier to use than logs; a pellet boiler can run automatically, very much
  like as oil or gas boiler operates. Stoves and water boilers that operate by burning logs must be
  hand-filled with wooden fuel, whereas most systems that burn pellets or chips include and
  automatic feeding unit that introduces more fuel periodically. Logs require much more work
  on the part of the person operating the system, and many logs are needed to heat an entire
  house, but they often cost less to run compared to pellet systems if there is a good local supply
  of logs.
• Do You Have a Convenient Local Wood Fuel Supplier? There are some companies that
  now offer home delivery of pellets everywhere in Northern Ireland and mainland Britain; supplies
  of logs varies depending on your location.
• Do You Have Sufficient Storage Space? Boilers that use wood for fuel require more space than
  those that use gas or oil for fuel. Fuel storage requires even more space, and the storage location
  must be easily accessible for both fuel deliver is and for feeding fuel to the boiler.
• Is There a Good Place for the Flue? Your home will need to be outfitted with a flue that meets
  the building regulations for using appliances that burn wood for fuel. This will require either a
  stainless steel flue pipe that is insulated properly, or a chimney (chimneys usually need to be
  lined for them to be both legal and safe) that is already extant.
• Will You Require Any Kind of Permission? It is possible that you will not need zoning
  permission or some type of permit to convert to a wood-burning system, but you should
  check to be sure. All new installations of wood heating systems must comply with the area’s
  building regulations; the best way to be sure of this is to hire an installer who is part of a
  competent person scheme.

Use the Sun’s Energy to Heat up the water for your Home
A solar water heating system uses free solar energy to warm water for domestic use.
A conventional water heater or an immersion heater can supplement the solar heating
system to increase the water temperature, or to act as a backup to heat water during
times when solar energy output is weak or is unavailable.

The benefits of installing solar water heating
•        Hot water year-round: solar water heating systems work all year long, although you will need to supplement the heating during the months of winter

•        Lowers your bills: solar energy is completely free, so after the up-front installation costs, the price of heating your water will be lowered

•        Reduces your overall carbon footprint: unlike fossil fuel power, solar water heating uses green, renewable energy, and therefore lowers your family’s carbon dioxide emission footprint

How does a solar water heating system work?
A solar water heating systems uses collectors, a type of solar panel, affixed to the roof
of your home. The collectors gather the sun’s heat energy, which is then used to heat water
that is held in an insulated storage cylinder or tank. A boiler or an immersion heater is then
used as a supplement heater or a backup to raise the water temperature further.

The heat collector panels come in two varieties:

•        evacuated tubes

•        flat plate collectors. This type can be either attached to the roof surface or even can
be built into the roof itself.

Larger solar collector panels can even be used to contribute to heating your home. However,
the heat gained in this way is not very significant, and this is not usually considered to be a
worthwhile investment.

Installation and Maintenance Costs vs. Potential Savings
The typical cost of installing a solar water heating system is approximately 5,760 Euros. The
resulting energy savings are relatively moderate, but the system can provide for nearly all
your hot water needs during the summer months, although during the winter your hot water
will need more supplementation from a boiler or immersion heater.

Maintenance
The associated costs of maintaining the system are quite low. Most available systems for
solar water heating include five or ten-year warranties, and will require very little
maintenance.  Typical maintenance would only require a yearly check of the collector
panels and cleaning.  Beyond that, a more thorough examination should be performed
every 3 to five years by a  qualified installer, or as instructed by the professional who
installs your system.

Savings
Having a solar water heating system installed on your home can save money on your energy
bills. Based on recent field trials, savings resulting from a properly installed and correctly used
system amount to 66 Euros per year compared to gas heating and 96 Euros per year versus the
cost of using an electric immersion heater; the savings, however, do vary from one user to another.

A typical system will save 230kgCO₂/year emission versus using gas, and 510kgCO₂/year compare
to the use of an electric immersion heater.

Is a Solar Water Heating System Right for Your Home?

Do you have a sunny location for your solar panels?
You will need approximately five square meters of east-to-west through south facing roof space
that receives unimpeded sunlight most of the day. However, the panels don’t necessarily need
to be mounted directly to a roof; they can also be fixed to frames for flats roofs or hung from
walls in the event your home’s roof does not receive direct sunlight.

Do you have space for a bigger or an extra hot water tank or cylinder?
If your system does not already have a dedicated solar water heating cylinder installed, then
you will probably need to replace whatever cylinder already exists, or add another cylinder that
has a solar heating coil that is dedicated for the solar water heating system.

Is the home’s current boiler system compatible with solar water heating?
The majority of the boiler and water-heating cylinder systems found in homes are adaptable into
solar water heating systems. However, if you happen to have a combination boiler (or combi,
as they are commonly called) and your home does not currently have a tank for hot water, your
current system might not be compatible with solar water heating.

A reliable and accredited installer should be called upon to assess the home’s needs and to help you
with choosing the correct solar water heating system to satisfy your home’s hot water needs.

Next steps
The UK has performed the largest study of solar water heating, and the results show varied
performance  of solar water heating systems. Based on the results of the field trial, properly
installed solar water heating systems can meet as much as 60% of the hot water needs of your
home, or as little as 9%, with the median  result being 39%. The key factors in the performance
variance were identified as the volume of water being heated, the amount of insulation used to
keep the water hot, and the required temperature of the hot water.

Coming to your home by 2020 is a smart meter, which will help cut your energy usage, make
meter reading an automatic process, and save you money.

Smart meters and their counterpart in-home displays will allow you to monitor your energy
usage and cut out the need for an employee of the energy company to visit your home and
read your meter. But what exactly does a smart meter do? When can you get one? Here are
the answers to your questions about smart meters.

What are smart meters?
Smart meters are the newest evolution of devices that monitor your consumption of gas and electricity. These meters collect, on a regular basis, data regarding your energy usage, and report it automatically to the utility company.

Some of the many benefits of smart meters are:

• They eliminate the need for meter readings—your utility company will receive regular updates on your home’s energy consumption automatically from the smart meter, without the need for anyone to visit your residence.
• You bills will be more accurate—whether gas or electricity, you will be billed according to what you use, not on an estimate.
• They allow you to keep track of your energy usage – your smart meter includes a display inside your home, which allows you to see your energy consumption, nearly in real time.
  It is also possible to track your energy usage trends by comparing daily, weekly and other
  periodic cycles.

The advent of smart meters offers other potential benefits for consumers. Smart meters may
help consumers save money by allowing them to schedule their energy usage for ‘off-peak’
time periods, hours of the day when demand for power is lower and consequently less expensive.

Smart meters may also allow customers to sell energy back to the energy providers—for customers
who generate energy via solar panels or windmills, for example. Smart meters will also make it easier
for energy suppliers to provide other information to consumers, such as tracking energy usage online
or through updates sent to mobile phones.

Why are smart meters in the news?
The British government has mandated that all homes in the United Kingdom will receive smart meters
by 2020. Close to 26 million homes will receive the benefits of smart meters over the next decade.
While many countries have begun to use smart meters, the UK is the first nation to widely use smart
meters.

How can a smart meter help save energy?
Customers using smart meters will be able to use the in-home display to monitor their energy usage
more easily, so they can change habits and cut down on energy waste. When you are using a lot of
energy, you will able to see it right away, as well as how much it costs.

With a smart meter, it will also be easier for you to recognize ways that you could save power. Smart
meters with the accompanying display have seen trial usage in countries including Sweden and the
US. In these trials, smart meters have been shown to reduce household energy bills by 15% to 20%.

When will I get a smart meter?
Energy suppliers will begin the large-scale roll out of smart meters soon, likely by the middle of 2012.
It will take some time for all customers to be outfitted with smart meters, but the process will begin
shortly. Some energy suppliers may even honor customer requests to be receive smart meters sooner,
but others may choose to upgrade to smart meters one area at a time. British Gas is already installing
smart meters in its  customers’ homes, and other companies might begin installations before 2012.
Until you get your own smart meter, see how you can save energy around your home.

Overall, around 8% of a home’s energy bill is generated by lighting. Reducing your
lighting expenditures is perhaps one of the simplest ways to lower your home’s
costs and save energy.

By replacing a traditional incandescent bulb with one of the new compact fluorescents,
your savings were amount to about €4 per year. That is for EACH bulb. Over the course
of a year, you’d save as much as €66 with every light bulb. Imagine the savings if you
replaced every bulb in your home!

Replacing a 50-watt halogen down lighter with a six-watt LED, your savings will be about €5 per year, which is about €85 over this type of bulb’s long lifespan.

Regardless of whether the home is rented or your own property, or whether you live in a house, apartment, or bungalow, significant savings are to be had by making some relatively small changes in your lighting, especially by installing the new energy-saving light bulbs and sources. Many modern home combine standard light fixtures and halogen down lighters or spotlights/track lighting, especially in the kitchen and bath, both of which have energy- efficient alternatives, including:

• Compact fluorescent bulbs (CFLs).
  These bulbs are what most people refer to as “energy-efficient” light bulbs. One way to
  use CFLs to save money on your lighting bill is to use them for general lighting purposes
  throughout the home. CFLs are available almost everywhere, and their higher initial
  price is immediately offset and surpassed by the serious electricity savings they bring.
• Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs).
  These light sources are newer ways to light the home. They are more efficient than even
  CFLs, and they are ideal for replacing energy-hungry halogen down lighters. They do
  cost more than CFLs, but they last longer, saving more money in the long run.

Beyond replacing light bulbs, one of the easiest (and most common-sense) methods to bring the
light bill down is by simply turning off the lights when you don’t need them. Even if you only leave
the room for a few minutes, those few minutes the light is off saves money.

Use the Lights Less
All too often we act out of habit and flip the light on in a room when we really don’t need it, such
as if it’s daytime and the room has good natural lighting, or using more light sources than are
actually needed. If you aren’t reading or doing a task that requires bright illumination, you don’t
need an overhead light as well as a table lamp, for example. The message is simple: turn off the
lights if you don’t need them. Here are some other helpful hints:

• ALWAYS switch off the lights when you leave the room.
• The majority of light bulb types endure longer if they aren’t repeatedly switched off and on all
  day long—however, you will not save any money at all by leaving a light on constantly in the
  hopes that it will last longer. Just turn the light off when it’s not needed.
• Try to arrange your light switches so that they are easy to reach to turn them off. The wiring for
  many homes is set up so that one can switch on the light for the landing at the bottom or top of a
  set of stairs; use that feature, so you’re not tempted to always leave the light on for use later.
• Install a motion sensor for your external lights. This is much cheaper than simply leaving the
  lights burning all the time, and it is actually a burglary deterrent. The overall effect will lower
  your light bill. You can also put them on a timer.
• Always choose the proper light source for what you need. Watching telly doesn’t need much lighting
  —a low-level background light will suffice, if you need anything at all. While reading you need a bright
  local light, such as a desk or reading lamp.
• Try to have a variety of light choices in a room, with separate switches for each, making it easier to
  achieve the level of lighting you want or need at any given time. You will also save more energy
  overall by installing a dimmer switch.

Turn Off the Standby
On average; households in Ireland spend about €42 per year powering appliances that
have been left in standby mode. Standby is when an appliance isn’t actively being used,
and although the appliance uses less power in standby mode than in active use, it still
draws power. The clock display on your microwave is an example of this.

Additionally, low-level energy consuming devices that are left on constantly (modems,  routers, digital TV boxes, cordless phones, etc.) all add up to increase your energy bill.  These aren’t things we would normally think to turn off, but they do make a difference. For example, your broadband modem or router can use at much as €9 per year alone!

Luckily, there are many Energy Saving Trust Recommended products, which will help lower the level of standby energy consumption in your home. One such item is called a standby saver, which allows you to turn off all your appliances on standby quickly and easily, all at once, without having to unplug anything.

New regulations stipulate that all electronics sold in the EU after 2010 can’t have standby
power consumption greater than 1W, meaning that in the future this won’t be such a big
concern for individual items. However, at the same time as the consumption of individual
devices is going down, families are filling their homes with more electronic devices! This
means that everyone should pay attention to the items in their homes that use standby
power.

Size Does Matter: the Most Energy-Efficient Products are the Smaller Ones
The energy rating labels on new appliances are usually given based on size categories,
with the idea being to enable consumers the ability to compare between two or more
similarly-sized items.

What this translates into is that two appliances of different sizes with the same energy
efficiency rating might have very different energy consumption. For example, am 180-litre
refrigerator with an A+rating might only cost around €44 per year to run, where a bigger
525 litre refrigerator with the same rating might cost €59 or more to run per year.

When you’re trying to save on energy costs, it’s best to search for products with the best
energy efficiency rating for the size category you will need.

What about Old Appliance Disposal?
Manufacturing electronics and appliances consumes a lot of energy and uses a lot of valuable
materials, even precious metals such as silver or gold. Some items contain harmful chemicals
such as lead or mercury. These substances could potentially get into the environment if not
disposed of properly, endangering everything from the water supply to the plants, animals,
and people in the area.

Any items bearing the wheelie bin with a cross logo shouldn’t be disposed of with the rest of
your general household rubbish. Many common household items fall into this category,
including large white goods and energy-saver light bulbs. When waste electrical items are
kept separate from other garbage, any dangerous substances will be removed and properly
disposed of or recycled, instead of having them sent to a landfill.

Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) Disposal
Bear in mind that when you’re ready to buy a new electrical appliance, the retail store is
obligated by law to either:

• Take your old appliance free of charge in the store
• Inform you of a location where they can have the appliance recycled at no cost to them

Several retailers do have collection of old appliances from the home, but they aren’t required to
do this. You can also take your old items to the closest WEEE recycling centre, or request the
local authority collect any bulky items, although some may charge for performing this service.

When searching for ways to save money and use less energy, draught-proofing is frequently
overlooked, which is unfortunate. Draught-proofing is one of the best and least expensive
methods of slashing the energy bills of any building.

Draughts and drafts are somewhat like ventilation, in that both allow fresh air to enter the
building. Good ventilation reduces condensation and dampness, but draughts are different.
They are uncontrolled, allowing too much cold air into a warm home in winter and wasting
energy by increasing heating costs, and the contrary during the summer with air conditioning.
In order to draught-proof your home, you must block gaps in windows, doorways, and such
that let the outside in, and let your warm air out. Getting rid of draughts will save you money,
because less energy will be expended to heat or cool your home; it will also make your home
more comfortable and snug.

How to Identify Draughts
Draughts occur when there are gaps in the construction of your home. It can occur in walls,
roofs, doors, and windows—any gap in the house that leads to the outside, like:

• Windows
• Loft Hatches
• Suspended floorboard
• Electrical fittings in walls and ceilings
• Ceiling-to-wall joints
• Doors, including letter boxes and keyholes
• Pipework that leads outside

Make sure you block the majority of these, but take care in areas of the home that need to
have good ventilation, such as:

• Places with open fires or flues
• Rooms that produce a great deal of moisture, like kitchens, utility rooms, and
  bathrooms.

How the Savings Can Add Up
Complete draught-proofing in a home can save about €66 per year. A draught-free home is
more comfortable at a lower temperature, so you’ll be able to lower the setting on the
thermostat. By doing that, you can save as much as another €72 per year!

If every home in the UK draught-proofed as well as possible, it would add up to a savings of
€228 million per year, and the energy saved could potentially heat around 400,000 homes.

Do It Yourself or Professional Draught-Proofing?

• Doing a DIY draught-proofing will generally cost about €228 for the materials
• A professional job will probably double this figure.

If you’re accustomed to doing simple DIY projects, then draught-proofing should pose few
problems. There are, however, some homes (especially older ones with single-glazed windows),
which will be harder to draught-proof. In these cases it might be best to seek out a professional.

A job done by a professional is more likely to save even more energy, because the professional
installer knows precisely which materials to use, and how to use them most effectively.

Choosing the Correct Draught-Proofing Materials
Choose draught-proofing materials that bear the Kitemark, which demonstrates that the product
has high quality standards. Products that show British Standard Institution accreditation have a
guaranteed lifespan of 20 years if they are installed properly and well-maintained.

Windows
Buy draught-proofing strips for the windows in your home that open. These strips can be stuck
around the window frame, filling the gaps between the window and frame. There are two kinds:

• Self-adhesive foal strips, which are inexpensive and very simple to install, but don’t always
  last a long time
• Metal or plastic strips that have brushers or wipers attached to them. These last longer but
  also cost a bit more.

Ensure that the strip is the proper size to fill in the gaps in your windows. If the strips are too big
they will be crushed, and perhaps you won’t be able to close that window. Conversely, if the strip
is too small, a gap will still exist.

Foam strips don’t work well with sliding-sash windows, so it’s better to fit the strips with brushes or
to consult an experienced professional. For those windows that don’t open at all, simply use a silicon
sealant product.

Doors
By draught-proofing exterior doors you will save a significant amount of heat and will only expend
a few Euros doing so. There are a few main items to consider in draught-proofing a door:

• Purchase a purpose-made covering that drops a metal disc to cover the keyhole
• Get a letterbox flap or brush, but make sure to measure the letterbox prior to purchasing
  the item
• The gap at the base of the door can be covered with a brush or hinged flap draught excluder
• The gaps around the edges of the door can be covered with foam, brush, or wiper sealant
  strips similar to those used on the windows
• Interior doors that lead to rooms that aren’t normally heated (like a spare bedroom or the
  kitchen) will need draught-proofing. Try to keep these doors closed to keep cold air from
  entering the rest of the home. If there are gaps at the bottom of the doors, block them with
  draught excluders. These are easily made at  home by filling plastic bags with pieces of spare
  material, such as old clothes or toweling.
• For inside doors that are found between two heated rooms you don’t really need to install
  drought-proofing, since no energy is lost when warm air circulates between the rooms.

Chimneys and fireplaces
If you rarely use the fireplace, it will be a major source of draughts. There are a couple of ways that
you can draught-proof a chimney:

• Install a cap over your chimney pot (this is probably best done by a construction professional)
• Purchase a chimney balloon, which is an inflatable cushion that is used to block the chimney

Just remember to remove the draught-proofing product before lighting a fire!

Floorboards and Skirting Boards
Cracks in floor and skirting boards can be blocked using a squirt-in sealant product. Since these
boards frequently contract, expand, and move with daily use, use a filler product that tolerates
movement. The best ones are silicon-based. Some things to look for are:

• Fillers that are flexible
• Decorator’s caulking
• Mastic-type filler products

These fillers come in varying colours, and they also have indoor and outdoor use formulations. They
will block gaps in a semi-permanent fashion, so do be careful during the application process, wiping
away excess with a damp rag before it has the chance to dry. These fillers do tend to break down over
time, but they can be re-applied with ease.

Also, check if you should insulate between the floor and the skirting boards.

Loft Hatches
When hot air rises in your home, it goes up into the cool spaces in your loft or attic, so it is a good idea
to block off any draughts around the loft or attic hatch. You can use strip insulation, like you can with
a door.

Pipework
Small gaps around pipes can be filled with silicon filler products like those used for floorboards and
skirting boards. Larger gaps can be filled with a type of expanding polyurethane foam. This foam can
be sprayed into the gap, where it expands as it dries, forming a hard set.

Older Extractor Fans
Older fan outlets might need to be filled up with bricks or concrete blocks and then sealed from both
outside and inside.

Cracks in the Walls
Cracks in walls can be filled in with cement or similar hard-setting filler products, but larger cracks
could be a sign that there is a problem with the wall or foundation. In these cases it’s best to bring in
a surveyor or construction professional to evaluate the cause of the crack before trying any DIY
remedies.

Ventilation
Air does need to flow into and out of the home so the structure stays fresher, drier, and healthier. You
have to make sure that you don’t block up or seal off any intentional ventilation, such as:

• Extractor Fans. These fans take the damp air out of rooms where moisture is produced, such as
  kitchens, utility rooms, basements, and bathrooms
• Under-Floor Grilles/Airbricks. These help wooden beams and flooring remain dry
• Wall Vents. They let in smaller amounts of fresh air
• Trickle Vents. Modern window designs often feature small vents above them, which allow small
  amounts of fresh air to “trickle” in

Everyone in Ireland has noticed the effects of rising energy prices on their monthly
budgets, and these effects aren’t good. Wholesale gas prices are up in excess of
70%  since 2008  alone,  according to industry statistics. This translates into a
significant upping of household costs, which isn’t something most people can
easily afford.

However, these price hikes have had a good side, in the fact that energy suppliers
have become  highly competitive  to keep their existing customers and lure new
customers away from the competition, in order to maintain their profit margin. This
has made energy a buyer’s market.

Additionally, much of the energy we pay for is actually wasted. This means that the
majority of  homes in Ireland can save as much as 400 Euros per year, simply by
making some small changes  to daily habits and comparing energy prices to get
the best deals.

What to Know Before Switching
The least expensive and most costly gas and electricity providers can have a difference
of as much as 130 Euros per year. If you have not changed your energy supplier or not
engaged in price comparisons recently, do so, as this can bring in significant savings with
very little effort on your part.

It is very easy to compare the rates for energy suppliers by checking online, and it is also
easy to switch. However, make sure to follow some guidelines prior to actually making the
switch. Ask a few questions in order to make the best choice.

• What are the hidden charges, if any?
• Does the quoted rate include VAT?
• Doses the supplier offer any kind of incentives for switching, discounts, or any special
  promotions or offers?
• Do they have a complaint record?

You don’t necessarily have to switch energy suppliers to save money. Switching to direct
debit instead of paying by cheque can save up to sixty pounds per year, or even more if you
have an online account.

The greatest savings over the long term come from making changes in how you use energy,
and making your home more energy-efficient. When you save money on your energy costs,
the wise thing to do is to re-invest that money into energy-saving technology and measures,
which will further reduce your costs. The savings gained over the years will pay for the initial
price of buying and installing these measures several times over.

By implementing these free energy-reducing tips, you will save money on your bills, which
can be applied to making even more changes.

Heating Hints

• Set your heat to turn off half an hour before you are scheduled to leave the home, and
  to come on again a half hour before you’re expected to return, so the heat doesn’t run
  while you’re not at home.
• Turn down the thermostat by one degree. This alone can save about thirty pounds per
  year.
• Remove any kind of obstructions that are in front of the radiator, such as curtains or
  furniture.
• Draw the drapes at sundown to keep heat inside.
• Insulate any lofts and attics, and consider insulating cavity walls, too.

Appliance Advice

• Use the new energy-efficient light bulbs that last as much as ten times longer than
  regular incandescent bulbs, besides using less energy overall.
• Turn off appliances like microwaves, televisions, music and video systems, and
  computers when they’re not actively being used. Standby setting still uses energy.
• Avoid leaving the refrigerator door open, and allow food to cool before putting it in the
  fridge, since cooling warm foods down can increase the power needed to keep the
  temperature steady inside.
• If you don’t have a frost-free refrigerator, defrost it regularly. Also check the door seals,
  to make sure there are no gaps or leaks, and that they seal tightly. Don’t put the fridge
  next to anything that makes heat, such as a stove or boiler. If you have a stand-alone
  freezer, try to keep it in the garage or a cooler room, so it doesn’t have to work as hard.
• Use the low temperature setting on your tumble dryer, and only wash complete loads of
  clothes in the washing machine, unless you have a reduced-size load or energy-saving
  programme.
• Hang clothes outside to dry in the sun when you have that option instead of using the
  energy-hungry tumble dryer.
• Use a clothes rail for drying things indoors, rather than hanging them on a radiator, which
  impedes the  heat from reaching the room efficiently.
• Upgrade your dishwasher if possible, especially since newer dishwashers use less water
  and electricity than washing by hand.

Cooking Advice

• When cooking on the stovetop, make sure the cooker ring is the same size as the pot you’re
  using, to reduce energy waste.
• Put a lid on pots and saucepans when you can, which makes the contents get warm faster,
  using less energy.
• Try to use pressure cookers, microwaves, and steamers when possible, because these
  appliances use less energy than the stove.
• When using the kettle, only boil as much water as is needed.
• Those who live in areas with hard water will find that limescale effects the kettle’s efficiency.
  Use vinegar or descaling products if you find your kettle has buildup.

Words about Water

• Try turning the temperature of the boiler down to sixty centigrade. This is a comfortable
  temperature for most people and will bring significant energy savings.
• Taking a shower as opposed to taking a bath with mean a savings of about 40% in water
  use.

A home’s windows are one of the primary ways that heat energy is lost; if you want to save
money on your heating bills, keep your home warmer and quieter, and decrease your overall
carbon footprint, it is in your best interests to install energy efficient windows or glazing.

Ways to Increase Energy Efficiency with Windows
There are two kinds of window glazing: double and triple glazing. Double glazed windows
have two glass sheets, with a gap between the sheets, which provides insulation; triple glazed
windows have three sheets instead of two. Contrary to what many people believe, triple glazing
isn’t necessarily the most energy efficient option. Both triple and double glazing increase the
energy efficiency of a home. There are many different kinds of energy-saving windows, in many
kinds of styles and frame materials. How well the window keeps heat from escaping through
them will depend on many factors, such as how much sunlight passes through the glass and how
well it keeps air from leaking in and out. Many window manufacturers rate their products’ energy efficienc
y in a system similar to the Energy Star rating. Windows that have an “A” rating are the most efficient.
Check the window’s energy label prior to purchasing.

Double Glazed Window Benefits

• Lower energy bills. By replacing all the single glazed windows in a home
  with double glazed ones, the savings per year in energy costs would average about €150.
• Smaller carbon footprint. Since you use less fuel with energy efficient windows, your carbon dioxide (CO2) footprint, or impact, is smaller. CO2 is a gas produced by, among other methods, the burning of fossil fuels for energy.  These emissions contribute to climate change. Everyone should strive to keep their carbon footprint as small as possible.
• Greater comfort at home. By using energy-efficient window glazing, less heat is lost through
  the windows, and fewer draughts can pass through, causing cold spots.
• Less noise. Thicker and better-sealed windows allow less noise pollution to enter the home.
• Less condensation. Better windows have less condensation buildup.

Every home’s individual savings will be different, depending on the window size, type, material, and installation.

Potential Savings
The £135 per year figure is an estimate based on a “typical” home: three bedrooms, semi-detached,
with gas heat. In order to arrive at that number, it is assumed that the regular windows are replaced
with double-glazed, B-rated windows. Individual savings will vary greatly, dependent on the price of
heating fuel, as well as specifics like the size, location, and other details of the home’s construction.
Besides saving money, there is the carbon savings as well, which in this example would be around
680 kilograms of CO2 per year.

Choosing the Correct Replacement Windows for Your Home
Since there are so many options to choose from, it can be difficult to make a decision about the right
windows. To make the process simpler, ask these questions:

What energy rating does the window have?
Check the energy efficiency of a particular window type by looking at its Energy Saving Trust
Recommended logo, as well as the BFRC energy rating label. The EST gives its endorsement to
any window that is rated at a B or higher; the higher this rating, the more efficient it is. While it isn’t
mandatory for manufacturers to put these labels on their windows, those that do label and score well
are the best bets. Choose a window that has a higher rating, so you know you will get your money’s worth.

What kind of glazing do you want/need?
Double glazed windows have an insulating space between their twin layers of about 16 mm.
Triple glazed windows are also available. You can get great energy efficiency with A-rated
double glazed windows and triple glazed models.

Which type of glass?
The best energy efficiency is found in double glazed windows with low emissivity, or Low-E, glass.
These windows feature an invisible metal oxide coating, usually on one of the internal panes, next to
the insulating gap. This coating allows light and heat to enter but reduces the heat that can escape.

What is between the panes?
Extremely energy efficient windows may fill the gaps between the double or triple glass sheets
with an inert gas, such as argon, krypton, or xenon. These provide extra insulation.

What keeps the panes separated?
Double glazed windows feature pane spacers around the inside edges, which keep the glass panes
from touching. More efficient windows have pane spacers that have very little, if no, metal. These are
called “warm edge” pane spacers.

What frame is best?
Select a window frame that suits your particular tastes and your home’s needs. Material is not an
obstacle, since there are energy efficient windows in every material type:

• uPVC is the most common window frame material, because it is long-lasting and recyclable
• Wood frames have less environmental impact, but they need more maintenance
• Aluminium and steel frames have a slim profile and are very enduring, as well as being recyclable
• Composite window frames feature an inner wooden frame that has been covered with plastic or aluminium, which decreases maintenance and weatherproofs the frame

What ventilation is needed?
Due to their airtight seals, replacement windows often cause condensation buildup. Without proper
ventilation, this condensation can accumulate and cause moisture damage to the room. Many energy
efficient windows have trickle vents in their frame, which allows controlled ventilation.

Window Replacement and Maintenance
Double glazed windows can endure two decades and more, so it’s unlikely you’ll need to upgrade your
home’s windows often. This being the case, it’s worth it to install windows that have a top energy rating,
so you get more value out of your purchase. Maintenance of replacement windows isn’t a constant issue,
but it does happen. Sometimes the seal between the two glass sheets might fail, leading too
condensation building up between the panes. When this happens, the glass unit will probably need
to be replaced, but this can frequently be accomplished without having to replace the frame, too.
Just like with installation, only trust a registered installer or one who has been thoroughly checked out through the building control process.

By replacing your home’s old, inefficient windows you will save money and decrease carbon emissions.
It is a good investment because it improves your home’s value, pays for itself shortly, and makes your
home more comfortable. Purchasing double or triple glazed windows with a high energy efficiency rating
is a smart move that helps keep energy costs down and betters the environment.

Given the state of the economy, everyone is interested in saving money; given the state of
the environment, most responsible people want to do their part.One of the best ways to
save money at home is to reduce your energy consumption, which will ultimately mean
a reduction in fossil fuel consumption and greenhouse emissions—thus killing two birds
with one stone. There are a few practical and simple ways to reduce your electric and gas
consumption, which is good for the environment and for our pocketbooks.

Turn Down the Thermostat
It is hard to believe, but by lowering your thermostat by 1°C can reduce your heating costs
by as much as 10%, which translates into a savings of about €60 per year. That one degree
is insignificant: simply put on an extra blanket at night in the winter. If your heating system
has a programmer, set it to only come on when you manually switch it on, rather than
having it run all the time.

Lower Your Hot Water Temperature
Most people have their water heaters set too high, which results in higher heating bills.
Set the water heater cylinder to 60°C/140°F. This is hot enough for anything you need,
and will bring your costs down and save energy.

Window Matters
The windows in your home are more than just ways to see out: they also let in draughts
and let heat out. Close the curtains at nightfall, which will keep heat from escaping. Also,
check the seals around the glass window panes and casings, as well as doors; if you feel
a draught, remedy it.

Flip the Switch
Remember your mum telling you to switch off the light when you left a room? Well, it wasn’t
about being a nag, it was about saving valuable energy. By simply turning off the lights when
you exit, you can save significantly on electric costs.

Say No to Standby
Many newer appliances come with a “standby” mode, which is convenient for the user, but
which also costs you extra money. Maintaining an appliance on standby uses more electricity
than turning it off and on does, so don’t use that feature. Additionally, when your laptop
computer or mobile phone is done charging, unplug it. Not only is that better for the device’s
battery, it is kinder to the electric bill.

Fill ‘Er Up
When using the washing machine, dryer, or dishwasher, fill it up, rather than doing multiple
partial loads. It’s simple math: a full load uses less energy than doing two half-loads.

Mind the Kettle
When making tea or other item needing boiling water, only boil as much as is needed. Bringing
extra water to boil is a waste of energy and water.

Fix the Sink
Did you know that a dripping hot water faucet will waste enough water to fill up half a bathtub,
not to mention wasting the energy used to heat that water? Check your taps and fix any leaks—
and turn them off completely when you’re done using them!

Use the Right Lightbulbs
Energy saving lightbulbsare a necessity. Not only do they last ten times as long as regular
incandescent lightbulbs on average, they also significantly reduce your light bill: as much as €65 over
the bulb’s lifetime! If you switch one of these new bulbs for a high-wattage incandescent, especially
one that is used frequently, you can save about €90!

Conduct a thorough inspection of your home’s energy consumption to catch where changes can be
made that will make it more energy efficient. By utilizing these tips, you can save a great deal of money
and conserve energy as well.

There are many ways homeowners can save money, such as by reducing energy loss.
If you live in a home that was built after 1920, it probably has exterior walls that are comprised
of two layers, with a small cavity between.

Walls lose about a third of all the heat energy in un-insulated homes; by insulating cavity walls,
you can save about €140 in fuel costs per year. Here is some practical information about cavity
wall insulation that will help you save money and reduce energy consumption, which is better for the environment.

Why Insulate Cavity Walls?
Insulation keeps a home’s temperature steady: in winter, it keeps the warm air inside, and in summer, it keeps the hot air out.
A well-insulated home is more energy efficient, thus saving money on heating and cooling costs. By reducing energy, our consumption of fossil fuels is reduced as well, so there are less carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions released into the atmosphere.

Since CO2 is a greenhouse gas, contributing to climate change, it behooves us all to conserve energy and reduce these harmful emissions, such as by insulating a home’s cavity walls. If all UK homes with cavity walls installed insulation, there would be a gross savings of about £690 million per year, as well as almost four million tonnes of CO2. The nice byproduct of this that your energy bills will be lowered, too.

Estimated Savings
The estimated annual saving per year for insulating cavity walls is about €150 (based on a three-bedroom, semi-detached house that uses gas heating), while the estimated cost for installing the insulation is about €320. You can see that the insulation will more than pay for itself in less than three years, and around 560 kilograms of CO2 is saved as well. In order to find out about the grants available to help pay for the installation of cavity wall insulation, see here.

Is Cavity Wall Insulation Appropriate for My Home?

Your home will likely benefit from cavity wall insulation if:

• The exterior walls are unfilled cavity walls
• The masonry or brickwork is in good repair
• The interior cavity is 50mm or more

Homes built in the last decade probably already have insulated cavities.
Those walls which are exposed to heavy rainfall could also be unsuitable.

Always check with a registered installer, who can provide a knowledgeable assessment of whether your home meets the cavity insulation requirements. If your home doesn’t meet the requirements, you could consider solid wall insulation instead, which does have energy-saving benefits as well. Cavity wall insulation is an affordable and easy way to save money, increase the value of your home, and contribute toward the greater well-being of the planet.

The concept of climate change has become a real, present danger,
as evidenced by the major shifts in temperature and weather all over
our planet. Although it is too late to stop it now, it is possible to keep
things for getting worse. One major way to do this is to encourage the
uses of alternative energy sources, instead of using fossil
fuels to power our factories, cars and homes. These
non-renewable, dirty, expensive  energy sources can be
replaced by other technologies, such as solar power.
Solar power is produced by using solar panels, which are
essentially conversion and storage devices for capturing solar
energy and turning it into usable electricity. Many people want
to do their part in saving the planet and saving themselves
money on their light bills, too, but they know little about this
important technology. Here are some key factors and concepts
involved in the usage of solar power and panels.

1. Cost factors. The cost of a solar panel can vary widely; some people make their own, while others choose to buy pre-made panels and have them installed professionally. How much sunlight a panel can absorb, the efficiency at which it operates, etc., are all factors to consider when trying to save money and the environment. Here are some criteria that should be considered for cost-effective solar power:
   • Level of Sunlight: Obviously, the amount of solar power you can use depends on the amount and intensity of sunlight available. If you live in a place that has low levels of sunlight year-round, such as the Pacific Northwest region of the US, you may only get direct, sustained sunlight for a few days per year. This would make installing solar panels not as cost-effective. In order to get the most out of solar panels in places with low sunlight levels, you have to install more panels, and they should be powerful ones with a large energy storage and conversion capacity.
   • Size of Your Home: If you live in a smaller home with fewer rooms and appliances, you will find you get more use out of solar panels with a lower output level. Solar panels for a small to medium-sized home will cost anywhere between $500-$16,000, depending on the tech level of the panels. However, if your house is big, exceeding 5,000 square feet, you will have to shell out a significant sum of money, even if you opt for less-expensive solar panels.
   • Government Grants: The governments of some cities and states offer grants or tax incentives for installing solar panels. Check into these resources to see if you are eligible and take advantage of them if you are.
   • Technological Advances: Solar technology has become much more advanced over the last several years, in terms of overall cost and conversion/storage efficiency. There are also much wider arrays of choices in solar panel options, so you can use this buyer’s market to your advantage, to keep costs down.

   

2. The Advantages and Disadvantages of Solar Panels
   Since solar power is renewable, safe, and pure, making it one of the most environmentally-friendly energy sources. It is free, but the cost of the panels themselves can be prohibitive in the eyes of many. Here are some pros and cons of solar energy/panels, to help guide your decision-making process whether to go solar or not.

Pros:

• Solar energy is produced by the sun, which makes it “free”—the only cost is to collect and transform it into usable energy. Once you have the panels installed, they can be used indefinitely, and the energy produced is completely free.
• Solar panels require little maintenance once installed, and can work efficiently for years without needing updates or changes.
• Solar panels remain efficient, even long-term: most solar panels will still operate at p to 90% of their original output, even after 20 years!
• Requires no work on your part to manufacture power, no wasting money on electric bills

Cons:

• Large houses need lots of panels to manufacture enough energy to make them cost effective to install.
• Solar energy only is accessible during the day, meaning your panels must also be efficient for storing the energy as well as receiving and converting it.
• All panels will have to be replaced after about 20-30 years; if you installed a bunch of them all at once, they will have to be replaced the same way, which can get very expensive.

Reflect on these issues and determine whether solar panels are a good investment for your home and situation. Although they can be expensive to purchase and install, there are alternatives to pre-manufactured panels. Although they are expensive up-front, they can easily work off the cost of their purchase an installation over the years. Technology is improving every day, but you do have to have some up-front capital to get started going solar. Consider all the options and make the best decision.

Active solar systems are becoming much more common these days. It is no longer unusual to drive past a home or business and see solar panels sitting in the yard or on the roof. Many people are wondering whether these systems are right for their home or business. Here is what you need to know in order to make that decision.

One factor that is not as important as you might think is how much sunlight a home or business receives during the day. Solar systems can store excess power in cells that are essentially large batteries. These provide a continuing source of power at night or during periods of inclement weather. Although you do not need to worry as much about how much sunlight your home or business receives there are some factors that you need to consider.

Where you will position the solar panels
While you may not need to worry as much about how much sunlight your home receives you do need to think about where you will place the solar panels. They can be quite efficient at extracting solar energy but they are still quite large and need an unobstructed area where they will be exposed to sunlight. In many cases this means installing the panels on the roof of a structure. If you have no room for solar panels then this system is not right for you.

Heating water or powering a home
You need to think about whether or not you want your solar system to heat your home or provide a source of electricity. Active solar systems can do either of these things but are not able to do both. This is because there are two types of solar panels. One is a photovoltaic cell that produces an electrical charge. This is then stored in batteries. The other type of panel has tubes that travel through it. They heat up liquid that is in the tubes and which is then used to heat a home or business.

Solar energy can be a fantastic way to keep your home at a comfortable temperature or to reduce the amount of electricity that you must buy. With hot water systems there may still be a need to supplement a home’s hot water supply especially in times when there is a long stretch of cold, inclement weather. In the end, however, using solar power will drastically reduce the amount of energy your home or business uses on a daily basis.

The cost of heating water in your home can really add up quickly.
If you are using an older tank it may be inefficient and lose heat quickly.
This means that more fuel will be used to keep the water at a predetermined
temperature. If you are interested in lowering your gas or electricity bills
and still want a good supply of heated water you may want to consider going
with a tankless system. Here are a few of the reasons why this may be a good
choice for your home.

How these systems operate
All tankless hot water systems tend to work in much the same way regardless
of whether they are fuelled by natural gas or electricity. Tankless systems can
be installed so that they supply a single faucet or so that the entire house has a
good supply of hot water. Whole home systems tend to be larger and have a
higher flow rate. The flow rate of a system is the amount of water that can be
heated in a short period of time.

When the hot water is turned on, a sensor causes the tankless hot water system
to begin working. The heating element is activated and the water is heated to a
predetermined level. As additional water travels through the system it is brought
up to temperature. A system with a higher flow rate is capable of heating a larger
volume of water in a short period of time.

You are not paying to heat water that is not being used
The first advantage of a tankless hot water system is that you are only paying to
heat water that is actually being used. A regular hot water system keeps a large
volume of water at a specific temperature for an extended period of time.
As the water cools naturally the system is forced to keep heating the water
again and again. With a tankless system the water is not stored for an extended
period of time and therefore you are not paying to heat water that is simply
sitting in the tank.

You will never run out of hot water
With a traditional hot water tank it is possible to run out of hot water.
If the water flows out of the tank before it has had time to reach a certain
temperature it will rapidly become cold. With a tankless system, this will not
happen. When choosing a tankless system it is important to make sure that it
has a high enough flow rate to handle the demand for hot water but if you do,
you will have a constant stream of heated water on demand.

Everyone knows that by decreasing the amount of energy you use in the home, the better it is for your light bill, as well as for the environment. Although you can save a lot of energy by shutting off lights when you’re not using them, choosing the right kind of light bulbs is also a major way to reduce energy consumption. If you replace as few as 15 of the energy-hogging incandescent light bulbs in your home with the newer, more efficient light bulbs, you can save $50 or more every year! There are going to be new lighting standards going into effect n 2012, which can be served by using Energy Star CFL, LED and incandescent light bulbs. But what is the difference between the lighting options, and what are your options?

Old vs. New Light Bulbs
Traditional light bulbs, which are also called incandescent (because they emit light by heating a special wire filament, causing it to emit an incandescent light), use a lot of energy. They use up to 90% of the energy used to power them through heat—ever notice how hot your light bulbs get, and how fast? That is an inefficient use of energy, meaning that around 90% of the money you spend on lighting your home or business with these light bulbs is just tossed out the window! The newer energy-efficient bulbs come in all the colors and light intensities you have become accustomed to, but by using newer technology, they are much cheaper to use in the long run.

Lighting Options
There are three main types of energy-efficient light: incandescent bulbs, CFLs (fluorescents), and LED (Light Emitting Diode). All three options can be found in any hardware or home improvement shop, and all three are much more energy-efficient than their more traditional counterparts. Here is a brief overview of each kind:

1. Energy-Efficient Incandescent Bulbs. These look just like to light bulbs you’re used to at home, but they end up saving around 25% over the older models. They work better because the heat energy is contained around the filament by a capsule, instead of allowing it to radiate out and be wasted. They not only use a quarter less energy than the other bulbs, they also last around three times as long, so you save doubly! They come in the wattage and color choices you want and need, and can be used with dimmer switches.
2. CFL Bulbs. CFL, or compact fluorescent bulbs, are the spiral-shaped light bulbs you’ve been seeing more and more of lately. They use the same basic technology as you have always known from industrial lighting, but new developments in materials and conductivity have allowed these bulbs to be made appropriate for use in lamps and home light fixtures. They offer a whopping 75% savings over traditional incandescent bulbs, and last ten times as long as a normal old bulb. They are more expensive up-front, but they begin paying for themselves within the first month. They do come in a wide selection of lighting colors, such as warm (white grading into yellow) tones, which were previously not available in fluorescents. Some even have a cover to diffuse the light even more, and giving them a similar shape to the bulbs you’re used to seeing at home, if you don’t like the “curly” bulb’s aesthetics. Not all can be used in dimmer switches, so check the labelling before buying these bulbs for use in a fan or room with a dimmer. Another fact about CFL bulbs: they do have a tiny amount of the toxic liquid metal, mercury, in them, so they must be recycled properly. Check www.epa.gov/cfl for more data about recycling CFL bulbs.
3. LED Bulbs. An LED, or Light Emitting Diode, is the same technology as that used on the indicator lights you see on your computers, cell phones, TVs, etc. This isn’t the only way they can be used, though: there are now LED home lighting choices, meaning you can use them in lamps and normal light fixtures! This type of tech is developing rapidly and is one of the most energy-efficient choices around. Energy Star LED bulbs only use about 20-25% of the electricity of normal incandescent bulbs, and they last an amazing 25 times longer! LED bulbs can be used in a lot of items that use 40 or 60-watt bulbs, reflectors in recessed light fixtures, and smaller track lighting systems. Although they are more expensive, you can expect the prices to go down as technology gets more advanced and commonplace. You can really see the difference these light bulbs make on your energy bill at the end of the month, and even at the more expensive price currently, they would more than pay for themselves within a month or less!

When you are planning on making your home greener and cheaper, don’t forget the light bulbs!

In order to remain relevant and profitable due to the ever-rising costs of energy,
it is absolutely essential for businesses to begin enacting more environmentally-conscious
practices. Not only will this reduce the energy bill (and, therefore, increase the bottom line),
it will also have a positive impact on the environment. Adopting eco-friendly, green policies
will permit companies to grow in a tightly competitive global marketplace, as well as driving
them to new heights of technological innovation. Here are some ways that a business can
go green and grow their profit margin, too.

Conserving Energy=Boosted Profit Margins
By choosing to buy energy-efficient office equipment, major and minor appliances,
and energy-saving light fixtures and bulbs, a company can reduce their energy bill and
increase the amount of profit they can retain. These extra profits can then be diverted
into other areas, such as hiring new workers, research and development, and other areas.
Energy Star has a website where a company or individual can calculate how much they might
actually save by implementing these simple steps, using Energy Star-certified appliances.

Dispose of Waste Responsibly
By disposing of their waste/trash properly (in an eco-friendly manner), this protects the
environment overall. Many municipalities offer recycling programs just for businesses,
specializing in paper recycling, as businesses generally produce more waste paper than
anything. This saves trees, which reduce carbon dioxide and make oxygen through their
natural processes, by reducing the amount of trees that need to be cut down to manufacture
new paper. It also allows the company to reap the benefits of not having to pay for a waste
disposal service to deal with their trash. Get in touch with the local waste management
department in your town or city to learn more about their recycling programs and
corporate incentives.

Green Business Practices Increase Technology Development
By pushing to be more ecologically-conscious and conscientious, businesses will ultimately
increase their level of technological advancement. This can be evidenced in many ways;
one of the best examples is in the automotive industry, where car companies are working
hard to implement new fuel-saving and alternate-power technologies. This came out of the
push by society and industry to reduce the consumption of dirty, expensive and
non-renewable fossil fuels.

Going Green Influences Others
When a big corporation makes the commitment to “go green,” they influence their associates
and competitors; business is a cutthroat thing, and no company wants to be out-stripped or
made to look bad in the marketplace. By exerting positive peer pressure on their particular industries,
these companies encourage others to implement earth-friendly policies and procedures, reduce
consumption and waste, and generally get “greener.”

In sum, green business is a responsible business practice—and a profitable one, when done properly!

Climate change, pollution and rampant irresponsible energy usage are all things that should concern every person on this planet. Each of these major points can be influenced by the actions of individuals, so it is in everyone’s best interests to begin practising eco-friendly lifestyles. This is no longer something that we should consider optional—it should be a necessity.
Here are ten helpful hints on green living that will make a positive effect on our natural environment.

1. Saving Water

Water is vital: without it, we can’t survive on this planet. Potable water must be conserved at all costs, and this can be done simply. Check around your home to ensure that any of your pipes aren’t leaking, and practise saving water by developing good habits. Turn off the tap whilst brushing your teeth, make showing quicker, take fewer baths, and install low-flow shower heads and toilet fixtures in every lavatory.

2. Reduce/Re-Use/Recycle

Our urban landfills are full of items that could have been re-used or recycled. By recycling items such as tin cans, paper, cardboard, and plastic bottles, we reduce the amount of rubbish in landfills and also reduce the amount of materials being used to manufacture new things. Make sure to keen a bin for recyclable materials handy in your home, so you don’t forget!

3. Cut Down on Energy Consumption

Everyone knows that fossil fuels emit the majority of the carbon emissions, or greenhouse gases, and other pollutants. Fossil fuels power our society, so by reducing the usage of these dirty fuels, we reduce carbon and other emissions. Reduce your energy consumption by engaging in energy-saving practises, such as switching to compact fluorescent bulbs and setting your water heater, air conditioning and heating units to more energy-efficient temperatures.

4. Reduce Driving

Our love for our cars has become one of our biggest environmental problems: the carbon monoxide from the patrol burned by our vehicles accounts for more than half of all emissions of this dangerous gas. By taking public transport or carpooling, you can significantly reduce your petrol consumption and, therefore, carbon monoxide contribution. This also encourages more efficient fuel consumption, traffic, and less waste than simply driving yourself

5. Purchase Energy-Efficient Appliances

Buying an Energy-Star rated appliance, such as a refrigerator or washing machine, can dramatically reduce your home energy bill—and thus decrease the amount of fossil fuels burned to manufacture that energy. Not only do you do your pocketbook a favour, you do Mother Earth one, as well.

6. No More Plastic Grocery Bags!

Those plastic bags they give you at the market take years and years to decompose in landfills, not to mention that some emit toxic chemicals as they decay—if they decay at all! Choose a more eco-friendly option by bringing your own canvas or net bag with you next time you go shopping.

7. Stop the Paper Trail!

One very simple way to behave in a more environmentally-conscious manner is to reduce your “paper trail.” Trees are one of the main ways that carbon dioxide, a greenhouse gas, is reduced. Trees take CO2 and make it into oxygen, effectively scrubbing the air. When you stop using so much paper, you contribute less to the cutting down of these vital natural carbon reducers. It can be as simple as paying your bills online, rather than queuing up and getting a paper receipt.

8. Plant a Tree! Or Two!

As discussed in number 7, trees are extraordinarily important to a healthy Earth. By planting a few you will help improve the air quality and the aesthetic impact of your local environment.

9. Put Out the Butts…Permanently.

Cigarettes are a source of pollution, one noxious puff at a time. Every exhalation of cigarette smoke contains thousands of toxic chemicals which are not only bad for you, but are also bad for the environment. Reduce your chances of serious health complications and reduce the pollution of your immediate environs by quitting smoking, permanently. You’ll also save a lot of money!

10. Go Rechargeable.

Those batteries in your torch, TV remote control or other household appliances are horrible for the environment: they are full of toxic acid and trace heavy elements that pollute the soil and water when they decay. Switch to rechargeable batteries, which will also save some change in your pocket.

It’s really not hard at all to become more environmentally-conscious.
If we all do our part, every day, you will find that our world will be a cleaner, greener and safer place for us and future generations.

If your boiler is more than about fifteen years old you may want to consider replacing it. It may be much less efficient than you would like it to be and this can translate into higher energy consumption. To lower energy bills and your home’s impact on the environment, here are things you need to consider when it is time to replace your boiler.

You will find two main benefits to replacing your home’s boiler. The first is that they use much less fuel than older models will. When you consider that energy bills are increasing at a rapid rate this can be quite attractive. You may even recoup the cost of your system in a very short period of time. The second benefit is that modern boilers are much safer and more reliable than they were in the past.

Which fuel system do you want to use
You should consider which fuel system you want to use. Some of the more common fuel sources include oil, natural gas and biomass. Biomass fuel is fuel that comes from a living source. Wood pellets are a good example of a biomass fuel source.

You should consider what fuel source you are already using. If you have used oil in the past, for example, you will have a storage tank. Running natural gas lines into your home is possible but it will increase the expense of your system. If you have used natural gas, you may want to continue using this fuel source as you will need to install a storage tank if you switch over to fuel oil.

Installing a biomass boiler is possible regardless of whether your home uses oil or natural gas. You can install a storage bin that will hold biomass fuel and automatically feed it into the boiler as it is needed to provide heat.

Condensing boilers are a good option
You may want to consider installing a condensing boiler. These tend to be much more efficient than non-condensing boilers. They use much less fuel and are much less expensive to run than non-condensing boilers would be. In a standard boiler, the combustion gasses that heat the water are simply allowed to dissipate into the atmosphere. With a condensing boiler, the heat that is contained in these combustion gasses is trapped and used to heat water. This means that you get more heat from the same amount of fuel.

Speaking with an experienced heating company can help you determine which kind of boiler is right for you. They will ask about your heating needs, the size of your home and the fuel source that you are already using.

If you are watching your water bill spiral out of control or want to make sure that your
impact on the environment is not as great, you may want to consider recycling the
grey water that your home generates. This is water that has been used for purposes
such as washing or in the kitchen rather than water that has been used in a toilet or
septic system.

In a standard system, both grey water and black water (water from the toilet) enter
the sewage system. A home with a traditional set up will use municipally treated
water or well water in every area of the home from cooking to washing clothes to
showering or bathing. This totals about 40 gallons of water per day.

Alternative water usage can save money
There is no reason why you need to utilize treated water for every task in your home.
If, for example, you plan to water your yard there is no reason why you should use clean,
fresh water to do so. There are many areas of the home where recycled grey water can be
used on a daily basis. This will reduce the amount of treated water that homeowners will
be billed for. Not only will this reduce a homeowner’s impact on the environment,
it will also substantially reduce water bills as well.

Avid gardeners will tell you that using grey water to water gardens and for other outdoor purposes
can be very helpful. They have been doing so for years. They enjoy benefits such as septic systems
that are no longer overburdened and water and sewer bills that are much lower than if the grey
water was simply allowed to escape unused.

Grey water systems can be simple or complex
There are a range of different solutions that allow you to take advantage of your home’s grey water.
Systems can be as simple as collecting dish water after it is no longer needed and taking it outside to
water gardens or lawns. More complex systems collect water from shower drains, sinks and laundry
facilities and store it until it is needed for other purposes.

You may want to consider a system that is landscape-direct. This will divert grey water from a
washing machine and will then allow it to travel to mulch basins that are located around trees,
bushes or garden beds.

A qualified expert will make it easier for you to choose the system that meets your needs the best.’

Summers seem to be getting warmer every year. Many people have installed central air conditioning systems into their home and use them as an attempt to beat the heat. While they can work well they do cause a jump in a home’s hydro usage. If you are looking for a way to keep your home comfortable without a corresponding spike in hydro usage here are some alternatives that you may want to consider.

Tried and true designs may make for cooler homes
Some traditional design methods can actually help keep a home cool naturally. They were used for many years although they have become much less popular in the last century or so. If you are building a new home or are renovating an existing structure you may want to work them into your design.

Ventilation can be the key to a cooler home
Do not underestimate the impact that ventilation can have on your home. In the past, homes were designed and positioned so that they took advantage of the natural airflow around them. These worked for several reasons. The first is that they helped evaporate moisture (in this case, sweat) off of the skin. This makes people feel much cooler. In order to take advantage of this in your own home you should position the building or the windows in such a fashion that there is a decent amount of air flow in a home.

In older homes, there were often large windows that were positioned across from one another. Copying this design can help ensure your home is cooled down naturally. Placing windows on adjacent walls can also help to increase air flow although it will not be to the same extent.

The stack effect can cool your home
You may also want to consider using something known as the “stack effect” to cool your home naturally. Heat rises and taking advantage of this tendency can help keep a home much cooler. In order to take advantage of the stack effect it is important that you place openings at the top and bottom of an area. This allows air to move in lower down and push hot air up and out of a room.

Energy efficient windows can also help you keep your home cooler
You can also help to reduce your home’s energy use and increase the cooling effect by installing energy efficient windows. These will help trap more cool air inside a home and may reduce how hard your air conditioning system needs to work in order to keep a home at a comfortable temperature.

It can take a lot of energy to heat water. Usually, the majority of the hot water goes down the drain and all of the energy that was used to heat it can go to waste. If you want to make sure that you get as much impact for your heating bills as possible, you may want to consider a drain water heat recovery system. This takes water that has already been heated and repurposes it. The heat from the water is used to warm the air inside of a home.

We actually use about twenty percent of a home’s energy to heat water. As much as seventy percent of that hot water is used to bathe. When a bath or shower is done, the heated water simply trickles away down the drain and is of no benefit to homeowners. That is, it is not of use unless a homeowner has a drain water heat recovery system installed.

How a drain water heat recovery system works
Although some systems may be configured differently, all drain water heat recovery systems work in much the same way. A series of coils are positioned around a home’s drain stack. When hot water passes through the drain stack, the heat is absorbed by the coils. The heat from the coils is then used to heat water that is waiting to be used.

The hot water that has been heated by the drain water recovery system can be used in a number of different ways. It can travel into a radiant heating system and provide heat throughout a home or it can be used to wash or cook with. The water does not actually come into contact with the drain water and therefore there is no chance that the fresh supply of water would become contaminated in any way.

A home does need to have a centralized drain stack in order for this type of system to work. This will ensure that all of the hot water that is leaving a home will travel past the heat coils. Users of these systems have reported that their energy use has decreased by as much as ten percent simply by reusing the heat that was originally utilized to warm water.

There are a number of advantages to this kind of system. One is the reduction in energy usage in a home. Because heating systems are not running as much the greenhouse gasses that are produced will also be reduced. They will also pay for themselves in as little as five years.

You may have heard a lot of people talking about radiant heating systems. They have been around for many years but advances in the design and materials make them a much more reliable heat source than they were in the past. As a result, these types of heating systems are being used in an increasing number of homes because of the advantages that they offer. Here is a look at whether or not a radiant heating system is right for your home.

Radiant vs. forced air heating systems
Radiant systems are very different than forced air systems. A forced air system uses a central heat source (usually a furnace) that heats air which is then forced through a series of ducts. This allows the heated air to reach different areas in a home. A radiant system, on the other hand, uses heated water that travels through tubes from a central heating unit. The heat can be let into a room via a wall mounted radiator or it can travel through a series of tubes that are placed underneath a floor.

Air quality considerations
One thing to consider is the air quality in a home. If you are someone who is dealing with severe allergies you may want to consider a radiant heating system. Duct work can be the perfect place for allergens such as mold and dust to accumulate. The air moving through the ducts pushes it out into a room where it can cause allergies to act up.

Radiant heating is also much less drying than forced air systems. Radiant systems use heated water and some of the moisture will end up in the air. This can help keep skin and hair from drying out the way they may with a forced air system.

Equal heating throughout a room
Another problem with a forced air system is that there can be hot or cold zones in any room. The air around a vent can be quite a bit warmer than the rest of the room. This can be a problem as it can make a home much less comfortable when extreme weather hits. A radiant system that uses in-floor tubing will provide evenly distributed heat throughout any room. It can also be precisely controlled on a room-by-room basis, allowing individuals to reduce the amount of energy they use to heat their home.

Only you will know whether or not a radiant heating system is right for you. A qualified heating and air conditioning specialist can go over the options and help you choose the system that is right for your home.

If you are planning a major home renovation or are planning to build an extension on your home you may want to think about making it a green one. You can help to lower energy bills and protect the environment by being careful about the materials and technologies that you use in your home. Here are a few options that you may want to consider.

A strong foundation is important
A strong foundation is important if you are planning an extension on your home. Often, these are made out of cement and are fairly standard in their construction. It is possible to decrease the impact that a foundation will have on the environment. If you want to help ensure your home is as well-insulated as possible you should consider using earth or straw in the construction of your foundation.

Straw and earth can act as natural insulation that will help you lower your heating and cooling bills. Because it looks the same as a standard foundation you may not be able to tell the difference between your new, energy efficient foundation and the one that was part of your original home.

You can also tie energy efficient heating systems into your extension. A heat pump can help to heat your home affordably and reliably and will not impact the environment in an appreciable way.

Insulating your new extension
Additional living space needs additional insulation in order to help keep the temperature at a comfortable level. You do not want to ruin the energy efficient nature of the rest of your home by under-insulating your new extension. Luckily, there are several different insulation materials that are quite energy efficient.

One option is insulation made from spun glass. This insulation traps air in much the same way that traditional fiberglass insulation does. The glass for the insulation is obtained by recycling glass bottles. Another type of environmentally friendly insulation is made from paper. If you have constructed your foundation using straw or earth you may find that you do not need to add as much insulation to the walls and air pockets in your extension.

Once you have finished the construction of your extension it will be time to decorate it. You can then choose flooring materials and paint that will also not have an impact on the environment or your own health. You will end up with a beautiful extension that will add value and functionality to your home.

If you are renovating your home there are many decisions that need to be made. You may be wondering which contractor to use or which areas to renovate first. What many people should think about (but don’t) is how to make sure that the renovation process is as environmentally friendly as possible. Here are a few things that you need to consider.

Your home’s energy supply
You may want to consider how your home will be powered. A home renovation can be the perfect time to add a solar panel or to convert from burning fossil fuels such as oil or natural gas to using biomass boilers or a heat pump system. You may even want to use a combination of several different heating methods. For example, you may want to use a heat pump system in combination with a biomass system.

Environmentally friendly heating systems are those that are as close to carbon neutral as possible. A biomass system only releases as much carbon as was absorbed by the plants or trees during their lifespan.

Upgrade windows to energy efficient models
If you are renovating your home you should consider replacing your windows with ones that are more energy efficient. Good choices are double paned models that have a layer of gas in between the glass. This will help reduce or eliminate heat transfer in or out of your home. Different windows will have different R-ratings as some gasses are much better at preventing heat transference than others.

You may want to consider replacing any windows at ground level as well. A significant amount of treated air can be lost through basement windows and yet some individuals do not see the importance of changing windows that are not immediately visible to the outside world.

Use recycled materials whenever and wherever possible
It is important for you to use renovation materials that are made from recycled materials. They have several advantages. The first is that they have already released any toxic gasses when they were in use before and will not contaminate the air in your home. The second is that you are not compounding the problem when some materials are harvested from their natural environment.

Barn board flooring, for example, is a beautiful choice to use in a home or cottage. It can provide a rustic touch to your home or cottage and is good because it prevents landfills from being filled with materials that can easily be reused.

Energy bills are getting more and more expensive each month. People are trying to find ways that they can save a large amount of energy and attempt to accomplish this through the use of energy efficient appliances and by changing the way that they power or heat their home. What they, and you, may not realize is that a lot of energy can be saved simply by stopping the slow drain in your home.

Power bars can use energy even when they don’t appear to be on
The power bars that we plug our appliances and electronic devices into actually use a small amount of power on a continuing basis. This is what allows us to turn our devices on without waiting for them to power up. Over time this energy usage can add up. If you want to stop this slow leak of energy you need to do one of two things.

The first thing that you can do is to physically turn the power bar off. They come with a switch that allows you to turn them off and then they will not drain any more power. The second is to use power bars that operate on a timer. This allows you to set the bar to be off at certain times and on at others.

Check windows and doors
Your home can use a lot of energy in order to keep the air temperature comfortable. If you want to make sure that your home does not waste energy you need to check your windows and doors. Small gaps or spaces around windows and worn out weather stripping around doors can allow a significant amount of loss in terms of heated or cooled air.

If you want to make sure that your home is as energy efficient as possible you need to make sure that your windows are new and that you have ensured that the weather stripping is in good condition.

Insulating your home can reduce your energy use
It is important to have a qualified professional look at the amount and type of insulation in your home. If you have an older home it may not have the level of insulation it needs in order to be truly energy efficient. If you are finding that your home is overly cool in the winter and overly warm in the summer you may want to find out whether your home is insulated properly.

By checking all of these areas you can be sure that your home is as good at conserving energy as possible.

If you are interested in building a green home or renovating an existing structure so that it is more environmentally friendly there are many choices that you need to make. One important decision is what kind of flooring you use in your home. There are many options to choose from and the key is to learn more about them and choose the option that is best for you.

What makes certain flooring materials “greener” than others
There are several different criteria that make certain flooring materials greener than others. One is that they do not release harmful chemicals into your home. The other is that they do not use a large amount of water or energy in the manufacturing process. Another is that it is made from materials that are salvaged or recycled and thereby conserves natural resources.

You want to make sure that your flooring materials do not emit any harmful chemicals. The emission of these harmful fumes is known as off-gassing. Studies have shown that some housing materials can severely contaminate the air in your home. In some cases it means that the air inside a home can actually end up being more contaminated or polluted than the air outside may be.

Flooring options you may want to consider
The type of flooring you will want in your home often varies from room to room. For example, you may love the idea of wooden flooring in a living room, family room or bedroom but want to use other materials in rooms such as kitchens and bathrooms. Therefore, you may need to source out several different types of flooring materials so that your home is as functional as possible.

If you are looking for flooring for a kitchen or bathroom you may want to consider concrete flooring. This can be made with recycled industrial ash so that it is more environmentally friendly. Good quality linoleum flooring that is not made from synthetic vinyl is a surprisingly eco-friendly choice. It will not off-gas (emit harmful gasses) and is very durable. It is also made from organic materials.

You may want to consider bamboo flooring for a living room, dining room or bedroom. In order for it to be environmentally friendly you need to choose flooring made from mature bamboo. You need to make sure that it comes from a reputable green supplier and avoid flooring that is poor in quality and made with toxic ingredients.

Taking the time to learn more about green flooring options is worthwhile. That way you know that the floors you walk on are not harming your health in any way.

Standard roofing materials can be very damaging to the environment. The problem is that our homes need to utilize something on the roof in order to prevent water infiltration from damaging the interior of our houses and other structures. There are some roofing materials that do not have the same negative effect on the environment. Here are some options that you may want to consider. These are viable alternatives to the standard asphalt shingling systems that are used in so many homes today.

Why asphalt shingles are not environmentally friendly
Asphalt shingles are very affordable and many people use them on their homes for just this very reason. However, they tend to be very damaging to the environment. Inexpensive shingles wear out very quickly and produce a lot of waste that needs to be placed in landfills. They use tar and other materials that can produce harmful chemicals as they break down. Some shingles will leach harmful chemicals into the environment while they are sitting on the roof itself.

There are alternatives that do not harm the environment. They may have been produced using green technology or be recyclable so that they do not fill up landfills with waste that may take hundreds of years to break down. Here are some options that you may want to consider.

Slate shingles
Slate shingles can be produced in an environmentally responsible manner. They last a long time when properly maintained and can be recycled if a structure is taken down or renovated. They are a much more responsible alternative to cedar shingles which are created using old growth wood and which only last a short period of time.

Metal roofing
Metal roofing is a greener alternative to asphalt shingles. Metal roofing is available in a variety of different colors and styles and can reproduce the look of roofing tiles, shingles or shakes. A metal roof may never need replacing so it will not fill up landfills the way asphalt shingles would. It does not emit harmful chemicals that may make their way into the water that runs off it in a storm.

If you want to replace your roof with an environmentally friendly alternative, working with a qualified and experienced company is important. They will be able to tell you which materials are right for your home, source out suppliers of these materials and dispose of your old roof in a way that minimizes the impact it will have on the environment.

If you live in areas where the weather gets cold you need to have a method of keeping your house warm. Keeping a house’s interior at a comfortable temperature does not mean that you have to harm the environment. It is possible to keep your home warm in a reliable and affordable manner and not have a negative impact on the world around you. Here are several heating methods that you may want to consider when it is time to replace your current heating system.

Biomass stoves and boilers
Biomass stoves and boilers can be used to keep a home at a comfortable temperature. Biomass boilers and stoves use fuel such as wood pellets in order to power them. Wood pellet stoves and boilers are carbon neutral. The wood comes from trees that absorb carbon during their lifespan. Wood pellet stoves release only as much carbon as a tree absorbed when it was alive. Stoves provide direct heat to a home whereas boilers heat water that is then used in radiators or in radiant heating systems.

Wood pellets are extremely easy to store, can be produced locally and can even be fed into the stove or boiler by an automated system. This is an affordable and extremely environmentally friendly way to heat a home.

Solar hot water heating systems
Energy from the sun can be used to heat a home. Water travels through tubes set into solar panels. The heat from the sun warms the water and it travels back into the home through the same tubes. The water can be stored in a boiler which is insulated and which keeps it warm until it is needed. It can then be used in radiators or in a radiant heating system exactly like hot water from biomass systems would be.

Heat pump systems
There is a lot of ambient heat being stored in the ground and the water that surrounds our homes. A heat pump transfers heat from the ground or water via tubes filled with coolant. If you dig deep enough, there is a point where the ground contains a substantial amount of heat available on a continuing basis. That heat can be used to warm a home in an environmentally friendly manner.

Only you can tell which system is the most appealing to you. Working with a company that is experienced in installing these systems will ensure that your home stays warm without damaging the world around you.

An increasing number of people are switching from a standard hot water system to one that is tankless. They may be doing this for a number of reasons. One of the main ones is that they are tired of paying to keep water heated when it is not being used. A tankless hot water system is one that uses a sensor system to activate it and then instantly produce hot water on a continuing basis.

In the past, people have tried to utilize tankless hot water systems and have been unimpressed with the results. There are a number of reasons why these systems may not have met with their users’ expectations. Knowing how the new systems operate can help you determine which model is best for your home.

Why tankless systems use less energy
A tankless water heater uses a lot less energy than the standard models. Why? It’s simple. A tankless system does not need to continually heat water to keep it at a set temperature. With a tankless system, a sensor is triggered when the hot water tap is turned on. It heats only as much water as is needed at a time. The result is that energy bills decrease sharply because your hot water system is not bleeding off power on a continuing basis.

If a hot water tank is not properly insulated heat can be lost through the sides of the tank as the water sits there waiting to be used. A loss of heat is not the only thing that you need to worry about with a hot water tank. You also need to worry about leaks. Many people have woken up to find their basements flooded because their tank has leaked all over the place.

What to look for in a tankless hot water system
There are a few things that you should look for in a tankless hot water system. One is the flow rate. This tells you the volume of water that can be heated as it passes through the heating system. If you have systems installed on individual taps this is not a problem. If you are using one system to heat water for your entire home there may be times that the system cannot keep up with the demand for hot water.

You need to decide whether you are going to install multiple water heaters or if you are going to install separate systems in different areas in your home. In order to do so you need to determine how much water you are drawing at a time. Then you can look to see if there is a system that can put out as much hot water as you are using.

A qualified expert can help you choose the right model for your home. If you are trying to replace an existing water tank or reduce your energy bills a tankless model may be the right choice for you.

Many people like the idea of using solar energy to help reduce their home’s energy use. They tend to focus more on active solar systems when they think about how solar energy can help them make their home more eco friendly. Regardless of whether they are used to power a home or to heat water for heating systems, solar energy tends to equal solar panels for many people.

There is another form of solar energy that you can use in your home. It is passive solar energy. Instead of using solar panels to harness the sun’s energy, passive solar systems allow the sun to heat a home and provide lighting. If you are interested in finding out more about passive solar systems here is what you need to know.

How to utilize passive solar energy
Utilizing passive solar energy is quite simple. All you need to do is to install windows that are south facing in your home. This will allow the maximum amount of light into your home and will also allow the solar energy to heat the interior of your home as well. This is the basic principal of passive solar energy. The key is to use energy efficient windows that will not let heated air escape as quickly from your home.

Changes to your home may be needed
Some changes to your home may be necessary and some may be expensive. If you have a home that does not face south you may need to see if any of your windows do. If not you have the choice of either installing windows in the southern walls or working with a different type of energy efficient heating system.

You may want to ensure that your home has a sufficient amount of insulation so that it can retain heat as efficiently as possible. By doing so you can ensure that you are using the least amount of energy possible to keep your home heated. You also may want to check out the pricing on solar hot water heating panels. These can be quite affordable especially if you use a panel that has been reconditioned or put together from other existing pieces of solar paneling.

Another alternative is to use a heat pump in order to warm your home. This draws some of the heat that is naturally present in the soil and uses it to heat a home. It can be used in conjunction with other heating systems in order to keep a home warm without a massive ecological cost.

It may surprise many people to learn that their home is drawing energy on a continuing basis. Appliances and electronic devices are all drawing energy even when they are not turned on. Heating systems and air conditioning systems may be conditioning your home but that heated or cooled air may be trickling away through windows, doors and under insulated areas of your home. Here are some tips that you can use to stop energy drain and lower your bills as a result.

Power bars draw energy on a continuing basis
People are often surprised to learn that their power bars are drawing energy. If all of the appliances or devices connected to that power bar are turned off that should mean that the bar is not drawing power right? Wrong. If you look at the glowing light on your power bar you will notice that it doesn’t go out when all of the devices connected to it do. This is because the power bar itself is drawing energy on a continuous basis. It is true that the amount of energy drawn is quite small but over time it can add up especially if a number of power bars are in use throughout your home.

One way you can combat this is to get a power bar that is on a timer. This will automatically shut the power bar off at times of the day when the devices plugged into it are not in use. If you have enough of them throughout your home you may notice that your energy usage decreases over time.

Hot water tanks lose heat through their walls
If you touch the sides of your hot water tank chances are that it will feel warm. This means that heat is being lost through the sides of the tank. If the water inside gets too cold the heater will need to use energy in order to bring the water back up to the proper temperature. Over time this can lead to a significant amount of energy being lost.

If you want to combat this energy loss you have two options. The first is to insulate a hot water tank. There are different kits that you can use that will allow you to put a piece of insulation around the tank. This will prevent heat from being lost. You can also switch to a heating system that does not have a water tank.

It can also be a good idea to look around your home at areas that may need updating. You should check that your home has a sufficient amount of insulation and that your windows and doors are made of glass that will prevent the loss of heated or cooled air. Then you can sit back and enjoy lower energy bills and a home that feel s more comfortable as well.

Unless you are building a new home, incorporating green technology will often mean making significant changes to the infrastructure of your home. This is something which may seem intimidating to some people. It doesn’t have to be. Here are some suggestions that will make it easier for you to do so.

Choose systems requiring the least change
Picking systems and technologies that require the least amount of change or reconfiguration can make it much less painful for you to switch over to green technologies in your home. For example, changing from a traditional hot water tank system to a tankless version will usually not require as much change as it would if you were installing in-floor heating would be. Replacing a floor made with materials that are more friendly to the environment can be less disruptive than bringing in a number of green materials to use in your home’s construction. By minimizing the amount of disruption and change, you can make the transition a much less painful one.

Replace existing technologies as needed
By making changes on an ongoing basis, you can minimize the disruption and impact on your home as much as possible. While it is great to replace everything in your home as quickly as possible, you will find the process to be a much simpler one if you do it on a more gradual and as needed basis. Some green technologies can be quite expensive. If you have to change a furnace, for example, you may find the price of an environmentally friendly alternative much more acceptable if all you replace is the furnace. If you opt to change your windows, insulation and heating system at the same time, the bill might be so large that it would seem like it would never pay for itself. If you only replace an item or two at a time and do not make every change to your home at once, you can end up feeling like you are much less overwhelmed financially.

Replace the least efficient systems first
Replacing the least efficient systems first is a good idea. Unless you need to replace something in your home (such as windows or a heating system) because it is broken, you would be better off identifying the least efficient systems first. Replacements for systems that are the least efficient will allow you to recoup the money you have spent as rapidly as possible.

How to start the process
There are several ways of starting the process of changing to green technology. The first is to have an energy audit performed on your home or office space. A trained expert will go over the various areas in your home and focus on the systems and areas that utilize the most energy. They will be able to tell you which areas to address first. The drawback is that an energy audit may often be expensive and it may not be available in all areas.

A second method is to look at which of your household bills are the highest or most unmanageable. If you choose the bills that are the most expensive and find green methods of reducing them you may find that you will welcome the changes instead of being nervous about them.

Tankless hot water systems are becoming increasingly popular with homeowners. They are not only being installed in many of the new homes that are being built but also as part of environmentally friendly retrofits in older homes as well. If you are curious about what these systems are as well as how to choose the right system, here is what you need to know.

Traditional hot water heaters
Traditional hot water systems are centered on a large tank. This holds a specific volume of water that will be used throughout a house or apartment. The temperature of the water is monitored by means of a sensor system. Water travels throughout the house or apartment as it is needed. If the temperature of the water drops below a specific point, a heating system will kick in and the water will be raised to the desired temperature once again.

Some traditional systems are quite efficient but many more are quite inefficient. A tank that tends to lose heat can end up driving up the cost of your energy bills as it takes a lot more fuel or energy to keep the water hot. Lack of proper insulation or malfunctioning heat sensors are two other reasons why a traditional tank-based system may become inefficient.

Tankless hot water systems
Tankless hot water systems are different. Instead of a tank which stores water, a tankless system will sense a hot water tap being turned on. When this happens, the water temperature will be raised and there will be no lack of hot water. Tankless systems can be used to supply a single room in a home but there are models which can work to supply hot water for an entire home. Because there are so many options to choose from it is important that you consider a few factors before you have one installed. Because there are so many choices to pick from, it is important to narrow down your choices based on a few factors. Here is what you may need to consider.

What to consider
The main factor that you need to consider is the flow rating of each system that you are looking at. The flow rate is basically how much water can flow through a unit and be heated to a desired temperature. This is important. If you are going to be using one tankless system to heat water at more than one tap at a time, you need to make sure that the unit you choose has a high flow rate.

Although installing a tankless hot water system is a great way to reduce your energy usage many people still prefer to use a more traditional system.

How to make traditional hot water systems more efficient
If you choose to stay with a traditional hot water system there are ways that you can make your system as efficient as possible. The main thing to remember is that newer systems are more efficient to begin with. Older tanks may also function more efficiently if you insulate them against heat loss. Wrapping an insulating blanket around them may be just what you need in order to make an existing system more efficient.

The use of solar panels in homes and businesses has become more popular than ever. The price of solar panels is now at a level where many home and business owners are able to afford them. In order to understand solar energy and why it is so popular, here is what you need to know.

Types of solar panels
Many people do not realize that there are two main types of solar panels. Both use the energy that is generated by the sun but they each use it in a different way. Photovoltaic panels, for example, use solar radiation in order to generate an electrical charge. This charge is then either used immediately by the home or is used to charge a power cell. This power cell is, in essence, a large battery that is capable of holding energy to be used at a later date. Because stored energy is available around the clock, there is no interruption of power for the home or office. Even if the weather is overcast or stormy, power can still be available for use.

The other type of solar panel system is also gaining in popularity. These symptoms allow water or a coolant to pass through the panel. The water or coolant is heated. In the case of hot water, that is then stored in a hot water tank until it is needed. If the system uses coolant, it then transfers its heat to the water in the tank. That water can then be used as a hot water supply for a home or business or it can be used as part of a radiant heating system.

What to consider next
Now that you know more about each type of solar panel, you can now decide which is right for you. Newer systems use technology such as vacuum tubes in order to work more efficiently. Because of this fact, many people find that a solar panel system will work even in areas where the sunlight is not as strong.

Are there rebates and savings available?
You may also want to look at whether there are any savings or rebate programs that exist in your area. Some governments are offering rebates or awards to homeowners who choose green home heating or power options. You need to find out as many details as possible and learn which options will give you the largest returns possible.

How to get started
If you want to start the process of moving to solar panels, speaking with a company that offers these products is a good first step. They may ask you questions about your home and your lifestyle. They will then be able to give you more personalized advice about which system will suit your needs the best.

They will often have a range of green technology items that may further your monetary savings while reducing the impact you have on the environment.

If you are thinking about replacing the heating system in an existing home with an environmentally friendly alternative, or you are considering building a home that has a green home heating system right from the beginning, it can be difficult to tell which systems would be right for you. Here is a look at some fairly common green heating methods as well as information that will tell you which systems may be better for your needs.

Forced air systems
Many homes have forced air heating systems. In any forced air system, a furnace warms air. Green fuel sources such as wood pellets or other biomass fuels can be burned in order to warm the air. A thermometer is placed in one room of the home and monitors the temperature. When hot air is needed, a blower pushes the warmed air through a series of ducts. It then comes out in various rooms via vents in the floors or walls.

These systems can also be augmented by a heat pump. This pulls heat out of the earth or nearby water in order to warm the air. They can also be used along with a central air conditioning unit in order to keep a home cool when warmer weather arrives.

These systems can be expensive to install if a home has always had baseboard or radiator heating as ducts will need to be placed in the walls. They can also be a problem for families where allergies are an issue. Dust and mold spores can be blown throughout the home. This is something that can be problematic for many individuals.

Hot water radiators
Many homes have radiators which produce heat. Hot water travels through pipes to radiators in different rooms of a home or apartment. The heat radiates out through the metal radiator and can warm a home quite efficiently. If green heating is important, a wood pellet boiler can be used instead of an oil or natural gas boiler. This type of system would also work well using solar heat as a method of warming the water.

This heat source is also more expensive to install in a home that had previously utilized another form of heating as pipes will need to be run from room to room. Radiators can leak which may also be an issue in some cases. However, there are many benefits to this type of heating system. It can be controlled on a room by room basis which can cut down on energy waste. It also does not allow allergens to flow through the home as easily.

In floor heating
In floor heating has become much more popular in recent times. A flexible tube is run in the subfloor and the actual flooring is placed over top. Water is heated using a boiler or solar energy and runs through the tubing when heat is needed in a particular room. The heat source can be from biomass sources, a heat pump or even solar panels.

The main advantage is that there are no vents so there are no restrictions on furniture placement. Radiant heating tends to allow air to retain more moisture than with forced air heating. As well, a room is heated evenly so there are no cold or hot spots to worry about.

Making the decision about which heating system to use is not difficult especially if you have an experienced heating specialist to talk to about your options.

If you are like many homeowners you may be looking at the windows in your home and be wondering whether it is time to replace them. As new windows can be quite expensive, this can be a tough decision to make. Here are a few factors that you may want to consider when deciding whether it is the right time to upgrade.

How old is your home?
If you have an older home that has not had any updates in some time, you may need to update your windows. Older windows are often made with a single pane of glass and are not successful at retaining heated or cooled air. This means that you will usually end up with higher energy bills as you constantly compensate for the loss of heated or cooled air.

If you have an older home, doing a window audit should give you all of the information you need to make your decision. Going from window to window and checking whether or not they are single- or double-paned can help give you an idea of whether you will need to replace them or whether you will be able to last a while longer before making a change.

Are there signs of moisture infiltration?
You also need to look at whether there are any signs of water or moisture infiltration in and around your windows. There are several indications that you can look for. If they are present, this means that water is getting in and may be damaging the area around the windows. There may be the growth of mold or mildew which can be hazardous to your health, not to mention unappealing to look at.

Some of the signs that moisture may be getting in can include peeling or cracking paint. Both oil-based and latex paint will bubble or crack when moisture is present. This may happen long before enough moisture has gotten in that wet or damp areas may be visible.

If you see fogging in double-paned windows, it can be a sign that the seal has been cracked. These windows feature two panes of glass that are sealed together with a layer of invisible gas in between them. The gas is what gives the windows their insulating qualities. If this seal has been broken, moister can begin to permeate the layer between the glass and the window will not insulate your home as well. These windows can often be repaired rather than replaced, so repair is something you may want to consider.

If you see any of these signs, or you are feeling air movement when the windows are closed, you may need to think seriously about an update. Speaking with a reliable installation expert about your options will not take long and you should be able to make the right decision for your home much more easily.

The phrase “off-grid” is one that has been used frequently these days and many people are wondering just what it entails and whether it is feasible or realistic for them to do so. Here is some information that you need in order to tell whether an off-grid lifestyle is feasible and affordable for you.

What is “the grid”?

The grid usually refers to the interlocking network of power lines and power generating stations that crisscross many countries. In the case of the North American power grid, this extends from one country into another. Power that is generated in one area of a country may actually end up being utilized by consumers located hundreds of miles away.

As the population increases, the drain on power is also increasing. Many experts have warned that there will come a time when the demand for electricity will raise to a level that will be impossible to supply. Even today, in times when power usage is at its peak, there may be power outages and other problems because there is not enough electricity to supply consumer demand.

Because of this fact, many homeowners and businesses are looking for ways to go “off grid”. That is, they want to find a way to generate their own power so that they are not hit with devastating electricity bills and are able to generate power so that they are safe from blackouts and shortages.

Can you generate power at home?

It is possible to generate enough energy to power your home without relying on commercial electrical supply companies to do so. There is a wealth of different options to choose from. Two of the most popular choices for generating power are solar panels and wind turbines. These can be installed on a small enough scale that they are affordable for many homeowners and can still generate a substantial amount of energy.

If you are considering either of these methods, working with a consultant who is experienced in this area is a must. They will be able to survey your home, the area where you live and the amount of space you have to dedicate to alternate power generation methods. They will be able to give you estimates as to the cost for materials and insulation.

Living off the power grid is something which an increasing number of individuals are choosing to do. Part of this stems from the fact that the technology is now much more readily available and that the price of conventional fuel sources is increasing so rapidly. Taking the time to learn whether it is right for you may be one of the best decisions for your budget and your wallet that you could ever make.

If you are interested in making sure that the home you will be living in is as environmentally friendly as possible, you have two choices. One option is to purchase an existing property and retrofit key areas using green technology. The second option is to purchase a plot of land and build from the ground up. While this may be too expensive for some individuals, doing so can afford you the most control over the items that are used to build the home that you will be living in.

If you do decide to start from scratch, here is some information on environmentally responsible choices. They can help you construct a home that is comfortable and which leaves as little impact as possible on the world around you.

At ground level and below

Traditional foundations used cement as their main ingredient. While cement can make a very durable base from your home, there are ways that you can make the foundation more environmentally friendly. One is to use straw or earth in the construction. This is a natural insulator and will reduce your energy bills. As it looks much like a standard foundation, it will not look different enough that it would affect the resale value of your home.

You may also want to build into an existing hill or install a heat pump system when building the foundation. Earth is an excellent insulator and at deep enough levels will stay at a fairly constant temperature. Using a geothermal heat pump will allow you to draw on this warmth and harness it to warm your home.

Which way should your house face?

Deciding which way your house should face is important. By orienting it to the south, it will be possible to use passive solar energy to heat your home. This will further reduce your heating bills. Passive solar systems allow heat to enter a home through large, well insulated windows. The heat enters but cannot escape. Also, by maximizing the amount of natural light available in your home you may also be able to reduce your electric bills as well.

Green Insulation options

If you are putting in new insulation you may want to consider using environmentally friendly insulation instead of the standard fiberglass materials. Options include spun glass insulation that is made from recycled bottles, or blown insulation that is made from a type of paper.

Once you have the basic structure determined you can then begin to look for other elements that will help make your home feel comfortable. Whether you paint with low VOC paints or choose recycled and repurposed items will be up to your taste and your budget.

If you know that you are going to be staying in your home for quite some time to come, it is not as important whether the green updates or changes to your home are as attractive to buyers. If, however, you are trying to find a way to use environmentally friendly items and technology in a way that will increase your home’s resale value, you may need to be more cautious.

Why you need to be careful about the changes you make to your home
It is important to be careful about the changes you make to your home because if a home seems overly unique, it may be difficult for buyers to picture themselves living comfortably in your property. While many people are fairly aware of the advantages that green technology can bring them, others may be more interested in homes that look and feel traditional but which utilize environmentally friendly items that will make their home more energy efficient.

Potential buyers may not see certain elements as a benefit to the environment but if you can offer them savings on heating and energy bills. If you can show them that your home is much less expensive to operate and maintain than other homes that are similar, you have a much more realistic chance of getting the sale you are after.

What does this mean for renovations?
If you are trying to pick and choose which areas to renovate first you need to choose items that have the most visible and immediate impact. For example, renovating a kitchen or bathroom to make it more eco-friendly or replacing an older, worn out roof with a material that is durable as well as eco friendly will likely give you the best return for your investment.

Some popular green updates that appeal to buyers
There are many green updates that you can add to your home that will appeal to buyers. Tankless hot water systems, for example, are appealing because they can give an almost unlimited source of hot water for any room in the home. They can be easily maintained by new owners as well. Energy efficient windows that will reduce the amount of heat loss are also appealing to buyers as they may not want to have to replace older model windows when they move into a home.

Heating and insulation can also make a home appealing
Heating systems and increased insulation can also be appealing to a buyer. If you add energy efficient insulation and a heating system that will drastically reduce a hydro or energy bill you will create an environment that a buyer may be much more willing to move into.

Only you will know which areas of your home need to be updated first. Obviously, if your home has obvious issues you should consider correcting them first before moving on to any cosmetic updates. An advisor that has experience retrofitting homes in your area should be able to look at your home and tell you where your renovation dollars will have the greatest impact.

Electricity bills continue to get more and more expensive over time. Each year it seems as though individuals are being subjected to a price hike that seems endless. If you are interested in generating power for your home using green technology here is some information that you may find useful. It should help you determine which system is right for your home and the area in which you live.

Which solution is right for your home?

One of the first things to consider is which generation method is best suited for the conditions you live in. For example, unless you live in an area where there is a lot of wind, a turbine will not be the best choice. It will not be able to generate enough power to make the installation expense worthwhile. Some climates may not be suited to using solar power to generate electricity.

By speaking with professionals who are familiar with the environmental conditions in your area you will be able to get sound advice on which methods would suit your needs the best. It can be helpful if you have an idea of what your general power usage is and how you want to use the energy that your system generates. For example, some individuals may be looking for a way to power their entire home whereas others may be looking for more of a supplemental power source or one for a garage or workshop.

How the different systems work

Understanding how the different systems work can also help you choose which system is right for your needs. A solar panel, for example, uses a photovoltaic panel that converts sunlight into electrical energy. This can either be used immediately or stored in a battery for later use. This means that even when the sun goes down, a home still has access to an uninterrupted supply of power.

Solar panels can be expensive but are often worthwhile. They can be used in areas where there is little sunshine and can be configured so that they fit on many different surfaces. A back –up system that provides supplementary power can also be a worthwhile purchase.

Wind turbines work in a very different way from solar panels. The wind strikes vanes on the turbine. As the turbine rotates, it generates electricity. Like solar panels, this can either be used immediately or stored for times when there is less wind. They can vary in size and several small turbines may be able to generate a fairly decent supply of energy for your home.

Only you will know which method you wish to use in your home. Using renewable energy sources can be a fantastic way to reduce your electricity bill and the carbon footprint that your home is producing.

There is a simple device that many homeowners overlook when they are trying to make their homes more energy efficient. It comes in one of several forms that suit different uses but each model can be easy to use and can shave a large amount off of a family’s energy bill. The device is a timer. It has been used for years by individuals who want to be able to turn lights on and off even when they are not in the home. However, this same device can be used to minimize the amount of energy we are wasting and make our homes more environmentally friendly as a result.

Types of timers

There are many different types of timers available. Some devices control the supply of power that is available for use. Others may control irrigation systems in a yard. Still others will control lighting systems either inside or outside of a home. As manufacturers see a need and a market they are beginning to incorporate timers into many different types of devices that can be used around a home. When they see a need or an opportunity they will continue to create products to fill that need.

How to tell which is right for you

You may want to think about what kind of timing system is right for you. Do you find that your heating bills are high because you forget to turn your heat down? You may want to use a programmable thermostat that has a timer built in to it. These thermostats will set your furnace to a predetermined temperature. You will no longer be wasting heat at times when you are not in the house or you are sleeping.

If you want to maximize your ability to water the areas around your home you may want to consider installing a drip irrigation system that works on a timer. These can be set to come on in the evening when it is better to water plants anyway. You will not be watering frequently, something which can kill grass and plants if you are not careful. And, by watering in the evening you are doing something which will benefit plants more and can help you avoid water bans or restrictions.

If you find that your electricity bill is overly high, you may want to think about buying power bars that have timers built in. These can help cut power at times when the devices are likely not being used. This can help reduce the amount of power that your home wastes and you can save money as a result.

By speaking with an expert in green home technology about your needs you should be able to find a product that will do what you need it to at a price that you can afford.

When most people think about ways to heat their home they think about the burning of wood or fossil fuels. Others may think about the use of hot water heat in order to keep a home or business at a comfortable temperature. Using fossil fuels can be an issue when it comes to the generation of pollution but many people continue to use forced air furnaces that consume oil or natural gas during the course of their operation.

Heat pumps are a viable way to keep a home at a comfortable temperature. They work on a number of fairly simple principals but unfortunately, many homeowners are unaware of what these systems do, where the heat comes from and how they can be an affordable option for the average house. Here is some information about these systems that may be of interest to you.

What a Heat Pump does

A heat pump works on a very simple principal. It uses tubing that is buried in one of several different areas. That tubing is filled with a liquid that transfers heat very well. As the fluid passes through the tube it picks up the heat from the source and brings it back to warm a home or business. This heat is naturally occurring and renewable. This means that the source will not disappear unless something extreme were to take place.

What can a heat pump pull heat out of?

There are several different models of heatpump on the market today. While all of them work in the same way, they are designed to work in different types of surroundings in order to find a source of heat to draw from.

Some systems are placed deep into the ground. The earth remains at a fairly constant temperature. By accessing this warm earth it becomes easy to find the warmth needed to heat a home. Other systems are designed to pull the heat out of ground water instead of water. Each system is slightly different and you should be speaking with an expert about each type before picking one for your home.

The heat that is available in ground water or in the ground itself is renewable. The earth stays at a constant temperature that does not change appreciably from one season to the next.

They should be able to go over the different systems and find one that is right for your home. A heat pump can end up recovering the cost of installation due to the lower heating bills you will be paying on a monthly basis.

Radiant heating systems have been around for some time. They have not been popular until recently when people began to notice the many advantages that using these systems could give. Here are a few advantages that you may want to consider when determining what kind of heating system is right for your home.

How a radiant heating system works

A radiant heating system uses heat transference in order to heat a home. Heat will naturally move from a warmer area to a cooler area. In this case, the heat comes from hot water that is travelling through hoses that are mounted under the floor itself. The heat travels out of the tubes, up through the floor and into a room.

Heating with a radiant system can be quite precise. Some systems will allow you to heat rooms or zones to different temperatures. There can be individual temperature controls so that you can divert heat away from unused areas into living areas that need more heat.

No cool spots

In any other heating system there are always cold areas or the heat itself is quite uneven. This is because the heat comes from a unit such as a baseboard or vent and travels throughout the room. In an ideal situation, that heat would be equal throughout the room. Air currents and areas of lower insulation may end up leaving cold zones and allow individuals who are using a room to feel drafts or chills.

Because the hoses are distributed evenly under the floor, the heat is also even throughout the room. The lack of vents also has a number of other advantages. There is usually a lot less dust in the air as it is not being blown around the room. This, and the lack of mold that often grows in ductwork makes radiant flooring a great option for anyone who happens to have allergies.

There are Environmental Benefits as well

Radiant heating is often considered to be quite environmentally friendly. The boiler used to heat the water can be powered using wood pellets or other green biomass material. These systems can be quite efficient and do not take a lot of energy in order to keep the water warm.

A licensed and experienced installer can help you determine which system is right for your home. They will also let you know how to mount the tubes under your choice of flooring and help you select the optimum set up for your family’s needs.

In the past, homes have got their hot water from systems that were basically the same regardless of the fuel that powered them. In a traditional hot water system, a boiler heats water to a specific temperature. The water is heated and stored in a tank until it is used. As the water in the tank cools, it is heated periodically so that it remains at a set temperature.

Why the traditional hot water system is inefficient

There are many reasons why a conventional hot water system is inefficient. The first is that the units can lose heat through the sides of the tank. If the tank is not well insulated, a significant amount of heat can dissipate over time. This leads to an excessive use of fuel to maintain the water while it is waiting to be used.

Over time, a tank may become much less efficient at heating water. It may take more and more fuel to heat the same amount of water to the same temperature. This can lead to increased energy bills, something which no one wants to have to deal with.

Hot water tanks are prone to developing leaks especially if they are older. This can be a huge problem as the water can cause a lot of damage before the leak is noticed. Water will continue to flow into the tank in an attempt to fill it and because of this an incredible volume of water can be lost if the leak is not noticed for some time.

Tankless hot water systems are a great alternative

Because of all of these issues, it is no wonder that many people are switching to a tankless hot water system. These systems can be used to provide hot water for a specific tap or can be used to provide hot water for an entire home. Turning on a hot water tap triggers a sensor which causes the heater to warm water quickly.

These systems are considered to be environmentally friendly because they use a lot less energy to operate. Instead of burning fuel to continuously heat a large volume of water, these systems only need to expend enough energy to heat the water that is being used at the time. It is not needed on a continual basis to keep an unused supply of water at a constant temperature.

How to choose the right tankless system for your home

If you are thinking about using a tankless system in your home, working with a qualified installation expert can be helpful. They will be able to tell you which system will give you the flow rate and water supply that your home needs. This will be based on how your home uses water. They will also be able to tell you whether a whole home system or one that is designed for an individual tap will meet your needs the best.

When someone thinks about solar energy, it is usually an active solar system that they are thinking of. These systems use the solar panels that many people are familiar with and can supply either hot water or the energy needed to power a home. A passive solar system can also be used effectively in a home but may be much more subtle than you might realize it would be. Here is what you need to know about these systems and how they can be used in your home.

How passive solar energy works in a home

Passive solar systems are just that- passive. Instead of actively collecting solar radiation and then using it as a source of heat or electricity, they passively use the light from the sun in order to light and heat a home. Instead of installing expensive solar panels in areas surrounding a home, they use the position of a home as well specific types of windows in order to raise the temperature of a home’s interior.

How to take advantage of passive solar radiation

It can be much more difficult to retrofit a home to take advantage of passive solar radiation. This is because much of what makes these systems effective is the actual positioning and orientation of a home. A passive solar home must have a large number of its windows facing south in order to let in light and heat as efficiently as possible. If a home does not have its windows facing south, it is much more difficult to take advantage of the ambient solar radiation.

A home must also be equipped with windows that do not allow a massive amount of heat loss. The idea behind passive solar systems is that the sunlight will stream in through the windows, heat and illuminate the interior of the home, and retain the heat through the use of energy efficient windows and insulation.

The advantage of passive solar in your home

A passive solar system can be much more affordable than an active solar system to install. It may require the installation of updated windows and the addition of insulation but both of these things can be added quite affordably. It may also not generate electricity or hot water the way that an active solar system may but it can, over time, help to reduce heating and electrical bills.

A qualified expert can look at your home or ask questions that will tell whether it is suitable to use a passive system in your home.