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Go Green in 2016 – Sustainable Design Basics & Innovations

March 22, 2016adminUncategorized, Energy Efficiency, Green Living, Home Improvement Tipsenergy efficient, green living, home improvement, home trendsLeave a comment

In the past, we dwelled so much on efficiency that we forgot about finiteness of many things. In other words, we were occupied with how fast we can and we completely forgot to ask for how long we can keep up with this pace. Luckily, seems like things are about to change, since the world is growing more and more aware that our only exit lies in sustainability. A revolution as significant needs to start in our very homes. This being said, here are some latest trends and innovations in sustainable design, which are bound to make a big splash in 2016.

Always look for the local materials

Regardless if we are talking about the construction of your home, your furniture or simply your home decoration, local materials are almost always eco-friendly. The reason for this is quite simple. With local products, you can completely eliminate transportation which is a huge issue when it comes to pollution. Furthermore, by investing in local goods, you will strengthen your regional economy which may also encourage others to do the same. So, always go for local furniture stores when equipping your home and local materials if you are building it on your own.

Zero energy home

In order for your home to become genuinely ‘’zero energy’’, it needs to have two major features. First one is that it saves as much energy as possible – which means that good insulation and quality residential windows are a most definite must. Good windows can cut down your heat loss down to 40%, which is not a figure to be trifled with. The second feature of a “zero energy” home is that it creates its own energy. Which is why, it is a good idea to install either a compact wind turbine or several solar panels at the roof or in the backyard. Bottom line is that the amount of energy that you produce is approximate to the amount you spend; hence the name “zero energy”.

Energy saving appliances

This next issue we need to deal with is in direct continuation of the last part. Namely you can make a whole world of difference by finding some energy saving appliances for your home. You can always look for a fridge, stove or even TV that spends less power. Of course, before any of that, you might want to replace all your iridescent light bulbs with some stylish yet eco-friendly designer LED lighting. The difference that these two make for our planet is so big that iridescent bulbs are on their way to be banned in the entire of EU. Sure, each of these items separately may not save that much, but try to combine them and their joint saving is more than significant. In other words, not only is this step great for our planet, but for your budget as well. A clear win-win scenario if there ever was one.

Power is not the only resource

Now, when earlier we spoke about making a sustainable home, we usually talked about either power or fossil fuels (in raw materials section), however saving water can be equally as important. There are several ways in which you can make a difference here and the choice is all yours. You can start by gathering rainwater and conserving it for later use in either bathroom or for watering your garden. Furthermore, you can replace all your bathroom appliances with low flow ones. Low-flow faucet, shower and even toilet all spend no more than 1/3 of the water their regular counterparts do. Finally, even just raising your awareness a bit can make a huge difference in your monthly and annual water spending.

As you can see, most of these innovations do not require too much of an effort, but they do require a no small initial investment. Although this scares a lot of people away, just keep in mind that while saving the planet these features also save your own money, by making you pay less for your power, water and heating bills. This being said, in time, each and every one of these investments is bound to pay off in due time. If you are planning for the long run, than these renovations are absolutely mandatory.
Guest post by:

Chloe is an art historian, recreational ballet dancer and a contributor at smoothdecorator.com. She is passionate about photography, dance and music. Her biggest dream is to travel the whole world with her husband and take stunning photographs of beautiful places. She also enjoys learning and writing about home design, since she is crazy about aesthetics. You can find Chloe on FB, Twitter, and G+.

How To Heat An Old Home With Modern Technology [infographic]

March 18, 2016adminEnergy Efficiency, Home Improvement Tipsenergy efficient, green living, heating, home improvement, home trends, infographicLeave a comment

We all love the charm and history of older homes but they can be very challenging to heat. Fortunately, thanks to modern technology, there are more options available to homeowners of older homes that won’t break the bank. The following infographic outlines some helpful tips to make your home greener and save you money on expensive energy bills!

Modern Technology to Warm an Old Home by Cast Iron Radiators 4u.

3 Common Heater Problems You Can Fix Yourself

February 10, 2016adminDIY Projects, Energy Efficiency, Home Maintenance, Winter TipsDIY projects, home improvement, home repairs, winterLeave a comment

A malfunctioning heater can be a serious problem, especially in the winter months when you need the heater to keep your house warm. Instead of calling a repair company to fix the heater, you can save some time and money by troubleshooting the problem yourself. Although there are a number of reasons why your heater is not working properly, investigating three common problems can help you to diagnose and fix your system as soon as possible.

Check the Thermostat

One of the most common causes of a heater problem is the thermostat, which is the device that regulates the temperature in your home. The first step is to make sure the thermostat is turned on and has power. If you have a digital thermostat, ensure the screen is not blank and then check the wires behind the device to see if they are securely connected. If necessary, replace the thermostat’s batteries, reconnect the device to the wall outlet or secure the wires.

If your thermostat has power, the second troubleshooting step is to check the settings. If the settings are wrong, your heater may only work periodically or not at all. For example, if you inadvertently set the temperature too low, your home will remain cold. Review your thermostat’s user manual to get the exact directions to maintain a comfortable temperature in your home.

Heating Duct Problems

Your home’s heating ductwork is an integral part of the HVAC system because it circulates air throughout your home. Professionals, like those at Princeton heater repair, can offer expert advice and solutions regarding heating issues. Even the most powerful heater can be ineffective if the ductwork is failing. There are several reasons why your home’s ducts are not circulating enough air to keep your home warm.

If the ducts are dirty from dust, grime, debris, and pollutants, air will not be able to flow through your home. Cleaning your ducts can significantly improve the air circulation in your home. In addition, ducts that are torn, twisted, kinked, and ripped can also prevent air from circulating through your home or simply leak enough air to cause a major inefficiency in the heating system. Repairing these problems, such as kinks and tears, can restore your home’s air circulation to proper levels.

Check the Filter

Another common problem that is easily fixed is a dirty air filter. A clogged air filter can severely limit the flow of air from the heater, which can eventually cause the heater to overheat and shut down. Regularly checking the filter and replacing it when necessary can eliminate this particular problem from ever becoming a serious issue.

Although some heating problems require professional help, troubleshooting your heater can help to keep your heating costs down and also give you a better understanding of how your heating system operates.

5 Warm, Cozy Home Tips for Those Cold Winter Months

January 18, 2016adminDIY Projects, Energy Efficiency, Winter TipsDIY projects, energy efficient, home improvement, winterLeave a comment

Whether you bundle up with a ton of blankets, or find yourself craving a hot drink, winter seems to make you cold no matter how high you set the thermostat. Now that winter is in full swing, you may be wondering how to keep your home cozy when it is so chilly outside. There are several ways to keep your home well insulated and trap the heat inside; you just need to learn a few tricks.

Invest in a Draft Stopper
Many homes seem to have a slight draft underneath the front or back door so investing in a draft stopper to seal the space between the door and the floor will help keep the cold air outside and the warm air inside. If you are unable to purchase one, it is easy to make your own by lining the area with an old towel or rug.

Caulk Windows
Applying caulk to the inside of your windows is an inexpensive and easy way to help keep the cold air out. Many people live in older homes that may not have well-insulated windows so applying caulk to the lining is a great alternative to investing a lot of money in new windows. Just go to your local home improvement store to find some and get tips on how to apply it.

Close your Curtains
Closing your curtains once it gets dark will insulate your house from any drafts that may still be coming through the cold glass of your windows. However, during the day when the sun is shining, leave the curtains open to allow sunlight to shine in and naturally warm the room.

Close off Unused Rooms
If you live alone or have rooms you don’t use very often, keep those doors and vents closed to avoid heating rooms you won’t be using. This will allow the heat to travel to the rooms you and your family frequent, keeping you warmer and your costs down.

Invest in a Programmable Thermostat
Purchasing a programmable thermostat can do wonders for your heating bills during the cold winter months. Applying settings that will keep the heat lower during the day when the sun is shining, and at night when you are sleeping will save a lot of money, and keep the house on a stable heating cycle at all times. While investing in the thermostat, it is also a good idea to get your furnace checked out. HomeSmart from Xcel Energy recommends you change your filter at least annually and get your furnace serviced to stay safe all year long.

It doesn’t take much to make a world of difference in keeping your home warm and cozy this winter. By following a few helpful tips, you will find your home stays warmer and your bills get lower.

Homeowners: Save on Your Heating & Cooling Bill

January 8, 2016adminDIY Projects, Energy Efficiency, Home Improvement Tips, Home MaintenanceDIY projects, energy efficient, home improvement, home maintenance, summer, winterLeave a comment

Understanding how an HVAC unit works and how to best maintain it can enable you to avoid common HVAC repair problems and save money on heating and cooling. As this resource from refrigerationschool.com explains, even though HVAC equipment is mechanically complex, it is not hard to find ways to lower your energy bill while keeping the home at a good temperature.

Understanding the Basics

The four main types of HVAC units are the air conditioner, heat pump, boiler and furnace. Hot or cold air is distributed via a forced air, radiant or gravity-based system. Research has shown that radiant heating and cooling systems are particularly energy efficient but the fact is that any type of system has both advantages and disadvantages.

Saving Money

HVAC units need to be maintained both by a homeowner and a professional. Homeowners should replace or clean filters at least once a month, as doing so can reduce energy consumption by up to 15%. Yearly DIY maintenance jobs include cleaning the coil fins, heat exchanger and evaporator coil. Drains should be cleaned as and when needed. A professional HVAC technician should be called in to tune up the HVAC unit twice a year to extend the unit’s lifespan.

Adjusting Settings

A thermostat controls a home’s HVAC system. The United States Department of Energy recommends that the thermostat temperature be set at 68F for the winter. This setting can be lowered when sleeping or out of the home. For summer, the temperature should be set at no lower than 78F. Raising the temperature by a single degree in the winter (or lowering it by a single degree in the summer) can increase your energy bill by up to 1%.

Why It’s Worth It

An average monthly electric bill ranges from $279 to $359 depending on your geographical location. Up to 48% of all energy consumed in the average home is used to heat or cool the home and a single Kilowatt of electricity costs an average of 12.12 cents. Thankfully, you do not have to spend large amounts of money every month to keep your home at a pleasant temperature. The tips outlined above and in the following infographic can help you save a significant amount of money while still keeping warm in the winter and cool in the summer.

Planning an Eco-Friendly Home? Here Are Some Tips!

December 27, 2015adminDIY Projects, Energy Efficiency, Home Improvement TipsDIY projects, energy efficient, green living, home improvement, home trendsLeave a comment

An eco-friendly home is the best way to express your gratitude towards nature. Moreover, it also saves you a lot of money in giving energy bills. That’s why a greener home is a good choice to fulfill the energy needs of your home without destroying the environment.

Modern technology offers you huge options for eco-friendly materials. But if you are confused where to take a start then consider the following post.

Seal Doors and Windows Properly

If your windows and doors are poorly sealed then this allows the air to flow in and out of the home. This puts load on the heating and cooling systems of your home and they have to work harder in order to maintain a particular temperature. This means simply waste of energy and money.

So, save energy and money by choosing quality doors and windows that don’t put stress on the heating and cooling system of your home.

An Efficient Duct System Can Save Costs

If you have efficient duct systems at your place then your heating and cooling costs will get reduced to great extent. Around 20% of the air that flows through duct systems of your home gets lost because of leaks and poor connections. Thus, sealing duct system can help you to save energy and energy bills.

Make Use of Solar Energy for Your Home

Instead of installing clay or asphalt tiles for your home it’s better to get solar panel roof tiles for your home. Clay or asphalt tiles are subject to environmental and temperature strain and also are not an eco-friendly choice. Thus, get in touch with a company which provides photovoltaic solar panels that can cover the entire roof. This is a good choice to satisfy the energy needs of your home without big energy bills.

Don’t Ignore Insulation

Poor insulation leads to large heating and cooling losses in your home. Rather poor insulation only leads to utilization of more energy than needed because poor insulation makes heat exchange easier.

So, get quality insulation for your home so that the insulation continues to control your home’s temperature for years. A good home builder will guide you to find the suitable insulation for your eco-friendly home.

Choose Efficient Lighting Systems

Lightning is important but if you use energy efficient devices then you can cut down your electricity/AC bills. Install only Energy Star certified light bulbs and fixtures so that less energy is utilized and more bill is saved.

Also try to use natural light and avoid installing extra bulbs here and there in your home.

Eco-Friendly Faucet Fixtures

As per World Health Organization, one in three people are suffering due to lack of sufficient water resources. Thus, you can do your part to solve this problem of water scarcity by using the water only which you need and not wasting it. Installing water-efficient faucets can help solving more than half of the problem. Electronic faucets are also an eco-friendly choice as they will prevent water wastage by allowing water to run only when required.

According to EPA.gov, around 10,000 gallons water gets wasted every year due to household leaks and if these leaks are fixed it would lead to reduction of 10% of water bills.

Author Bio: – Dan Kogan is owner of NY handyman NYC, one of the leading handyman in New York City, with more than 20 years of experience. He is passionate about all things related to home improvement and fixes all the things around your home.

How to Properly Service Your Hot Water Systems

December 17, 2015adminEnergy Efficiency, Home Improvement Tips, Home Maintenanceenergy efficient, home improvement, home repairsLeave a comment

Focused on other big house-related maintenances, most people forget their hot water systems and left them unchecked for years and years. This leads to damages and leaks that can seriously harm your pipes and cost a lot of money, but also – and this aspect is often overlooked – affects your consumption of energy. Knowing that this system accounts for about 33% of the overall energy use, ignoring it is one of the worst things you can do. In order to maintain it properly, you have to know a few basics.

Properly Adjusted Slope

In general, all hot water systems include radiators, pipes and boilers that have to be in synch, properly connected and assembled in accordance with the highest standards. One of the things to pay the most attention to is the slope – unless it is well adjusted, your system will not work properly and will require frequent repairs.

Some of the most common indicators of an improper slope are hammering noises coming from your system, its inability to heat water and, ultimately, cold radiators around your home. If you want to fix this, contact an expert or just fasten the pipes and radiators yourself and check if all parts of the system are titled.

Adjust the Level of Water

When it comes to the water level in a hot water system, there is no precise way to determine it, but the rule of thumb tells us that the boiler should be about half full – or half empty, depending on how you see it. The reason for this is simple: too much water will minimize the much needed empty space in the top part of the tank, while a level that is too low will just not produce enough heat. That is why the golden mean is really ideal in this case.

If you, however, you notice that the water level is low, something needs to be done. These issues require professional assistance, so you should call an expert, we learn from the people who run Dial Up Plumbing. They need to close your water supply and check the water level for a period of three or four days in order to diagnose the problem accurately.

Expansion Tank Purpose and Safety Measures

Expansion tank might easily be the most important part of your hot water system, but it is also the part the majority of people pay little to no attention to. This tank is most frequently installed in the basement – it is hung from the ceiling – or, alternatively, in the attic especially with older systems.

The purpose of an expansion tank is to contain and control the heated water that goes into the hot water system.

Of course, the temperature of this water needs to be well above the temperature of boiling water. Only such water ensures proper heating, but it is the expansion tank that makes sure it is not converted into steam by carefully keeping it under pressure. This is why tanks need enough air as well, in order to prevent accidents, explosions and pressure-related problems. In order to ensure proper functioning, tanks should be inspected and replaced when needed, as well as drained if filled with too much water.

Finally: An Annual Check-up

If you notice that your pipes are colder than they should be, it is probably because they are clogged and need to be flushed. Moreover, the entire system should be flushed annually if you want it to be clean and ensure proper water flow. Remember how important the hot water system is to you during the winter and you will have no problem finding motivation to maintain it.

Save Green: 4 Easy Ways to Reduce Your Energy Bill

November 25, 2015adminEnergy Efficiency, Green Living, Home Improvement TipsDIY projects, energy efficient, green living, winterLeave a comment

Reducing your energy bill doesn’t have to require you to make significant sacrifices in the way that you live your life. Making simple changes and investing in new technologies to help you better manage your home can help you save substantially on your utility bills. Take advantage of new smart home technology and soon you’ll find that your power bill more than makes up for itself over the course of a year.

Smart Home Technology

You don’t need a complete smart home solution to benefit from smart home technology. Instead, you can just purchase a few appliances or outlets that you use most to help reduce your output. There are wall adapters that you can plug your devices into, and then you can control those devices using a mobile app. This is also helpful for when you go on vacation, and you want to create the impression that someone is still home.

Programmable Thermostat

If you would like something a little more low-key and automated, consider getting a weekly programmable thermostat. A thermostat that is digital and that you can set manually can help you automatically save money, and you can even save on the startup costs with a Discountrue coupon for AliExpress. Set the thermostat to automatically rise or fall a few degrees before you come home, and make sure it’s just the right temperature when you return.

Stock Your Refrigerator

Aim to keep your refrigerator at least 75 percent stocked to keep costs down. When you keep items in your refrigerator, they cool to the desired temperature. While the refrigerator has to work harder initially, once you cool down the items in the refrigerator, it won’t have to work as hard to maintain temperature. The same is true of your freezer. Keep ice bags or ice blocks inside your freezer to keep it full.

Use Candles in the Winter

During the winter, make use of candles to help heat up your house before you sleep at night. Surprisingly, candles are an affordable way to produce a noticeable bit of heat. There are even candle wreaths you can purchase to greatly increase the heat production. The amount of heat produced by a set of candles can offset some of the cost associated with running your heater.

Try to keep your thermostat at about 78 degrees in the summer and 68 degrees in the winter. These settings can help you get the most out of your cooling and heating system while saving you money. It’s estimated that you can shave six to eight percent off your energy bill in the summer for each degree higher than 78 you set your thermostat to.

Guest Post By:

Anica Oaks

Freelance writer and web enthusiast
Read some of my published work on my Google+ page.

An Insight into Energy-Efficient Windows

November 18, 2015adminEnergy Efficiency, Home Improvement Tips, Home Maintenance, Winter Tipsenergy efficient, home improvement, replacement windows, winterLeave a comment

In the wake of winter, most homeowners begin to dread the prospects of high energy bills and inadequately heated living areas. Even with seamless weather-stripping and optimal external and internal insulation, there will always be a few phantom heat leaks that may compromise the comfort of your home.

As a general rule, windows are the biggest heat outlet and if not outfitted with the right type of panes, they can considerably up your electricity bills without providing warmth that goes with the price. To keep freezing temperatures and high energy expenses at bay this winter, opt for energy-efficient windows with either double- or triple-glazing. If the idea sounds worth a go, here are some retrofit window basics to help you pick the right set of new panes for your home.

How energy-efficient windows work

Double-glazed windows consist of two panes separated by a gap (usually 16 millimeters wide). The air trapped between the two glass sheets is filled with either air or gas and functions as an insulating block which prevents escape of heat. Triple-glazed windows have three panes of glass, each separated from the other by an air- or gas-filled space, and they often provide better insulation than their double-glazed counterparts.

Top benefits of retrofit windows

In addition to keeping the house warm and reducing electricity bills, this retrofit also entail a lower carbon footprint than the traditional option, which it more earth-friendly, we learn from Melbourne-based retailers of double glazed windows. Other known benefits include fewer draughts, lower external noise levels and minimal condensation. On top of that, double- and triple-glazed windows are very durable and can last up to 20 years, which translates as higher long-term savings.

Retrofit glass and gap filling options

When choosing energy-efficient windows, pay attention to BFRC ratings, and if possible, opt for low-emissivity panes internally coated by metal oxide to minimize loss of heat while ensuring ample sunlight. Other features to keep an eye out on when shopping for new windows include use of internal gasses (such as argon, krypton or xenon) and pane spacers known as warm edges which should contain little or no metal for maximum heat loss prevention.

Window frame types used in earth-friendly windows

Energy-efficient windows are available in four main frame types, i.e. uPVC, wood, composite and aluminum/steel framing. While uPVC and aluminum/steel frames are recyclable, slender and provide a lengthy lifespan, wooden frames entail minimal environmental impact but they also require proper maintenance. Composite framing, on the other hand, requires less maintenance and is extremely weatherproof thanks to its internal timber structure with plastic or aluminum coating.

ABC of energy and U-value ratings

Most double- and triple-glazed windows are rated according to their energy efficiency. The energy performance scale devised by the British Fenestration Rating Council runs from A to G, A-rated windows boasting highest heat retention. In addition to the window energy rating, you should also check the U-values shown on the label and pick the panes with lowest U-values as they entail minimal heat loss and improved insulation features.

Ventilation aspects of earth-friendly windows

Retrofit windows are air-tighter than standard panes, so you should strive to keep your home properly aired to prevent condensation buildup. If your house is lacking in adequate ventilation features, consider either regularly airing the rooms or choosing windows with trickle frame vents. If condensation continues to build up despite your best efforts, your household may be suffering from a damp problem which you will need to tackle on your own or hire experts to fix it for you.

Winter is just around the corner, but days of warmth and comfort are not gone. With the right set of windows, you home will stay cozy and well-heated even with blizzards raging outside – so go ahead and replace your panes with retrofit glazing while the weather still allows it.

4 Window Types to Match Your Personal Aesthetic

October 5, 2015adminEnergy Efficiency, home improvement, Home Improvement Tips, home remodelingenergy efficient, home improvement, home remodeling, remodeling tips, replacement windows, windowsLeave a comment

The windows are essentially the eyes of your home. They serve an extremely important function but can also have a dramatic effect on enhancing the outward appearance if you choose the appropriate style and the right dressings. When you are planning on installing new replacement windows, you need to consider efficiency, cost, your home’s architecture and also your personal aesthetic. While the standard window does serve its purpose, here are four different types that will say a lot about your taste.

The Bay Window for the Artist at Heart

The bay window is highly sought after because it has such an artistic effect. Originating from the German word meaning ‘the ledge in the wall’, it contributes to the home’s exterior appeal while giving homeowners a unique panoramic view of their surroundings from inside their living space. Generally, bay windows have three openings that vary in sizes. The center ‘picture’ window is unobstructed and the surrounding windows on either side are smaller set a mood and will become a real focus in the design of your home interior.

The Bow Window for Another Kind of Beautiful

A bow window is another type of window that acts as a focal point inside of the home and transforms the exterior as well. While bow windows may appear to be bay windows at first glance, they are actually designed for homeowners who want an open space that feels fresh and open. Bow windows have a semi-circular outer structure that is best suited for homes that need more natural light and that have more room for additional panes. They are also unique in the sense that they can wrap around the corner of a home, so you can have views from two different angles.

The Wood Window for a Practical and Classical Design

The wood window is a beautiful and long-lasting option for homeowners who want a classical design and who want to benefit from the practicality of the material. With a variety of wood choices that range from pine and oak to mahogany and maple, the color and finishes that you choose can compliment any type of space that you would like to look timeless, inviting and charming.

Casement Windows for Clean Lines and Function

If you want a more modern appearance where the space is designed solely on clean lines, casement windows from companies like Five Star Windows Inc. are a great accent that will let natural light in. In addition to allowing homeowners to compliment the sleek lines in their interior design, the window will allow more air to blow through the home while they are open and provide a more open view of nature.

Everyone has their own personal aesthetic. You may like a refined and modern look or a classical application that will never go out of style. Be sure to compare several styles and only then can you decide on a replacement window and a professional installer.

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