Building codes don’t address energy efficiency

While building codes are not as exciting as clean technology or controversial as carbon pricing, they remain one of the most important tools in the fight against climate change. But in the current Ontario code update, the changes are minimal, with few changes in energy efficiency and carbon emissions. As a result, consumers aren’t getting the benefits they deserve. While the update has many positive aspects, it fails to address the most pressing needs of consumers and builders alike.

Enforcing building codes is critical for long-term affordability and consumer protection. Inefficient buildings are not only costly, they also are inconvenient for renters and homeowners. Energy bills are mostly paid by developers and contractors, not by homeowners and tenants. Furthermore, carbon prices are set to triple by 2030, and the global market for fossil fuels is prone to fluctuations. The cost of energy is growing at an alarming pace.

Cost of energy-efficient upgrades

The Energy Upgrade California program provides rebates for various home improvement projects. A typical package can save up to $5,000. To qualify for a rebate, a homeowner must make certain energy-efficient improvements to the home. The state has passed several laws aimed at lowering the cost of energy-efficient upgrades. One example is the California Building Code, which requires that all new buildings meet minimum energy-efficiency standards. Other legislation aimed at making upgrades more affordable for low-income homeowners was passed.

While many energy-efficient upgrades for California homes reduce the cost of electricity, not all of them save money. In fact, some improvements can actually increase electricity usage. While lighting upgrades can save homeowners money, they can’t achieve net zero energy. Moreover, the “rebound effect” may lead consumers to use more energy after purchasing an energy-efficient appliance, such as an electric car. Some people shy away from the more expensive upgrades, but these improvements can add substantial value to the property.

Sales tax holidays

While sales tax holidays for energy-efficient homes in California sound like a good idea, they aren’t a good idea at all. Unlike targeted tax breaks, these holiday periods generally benefit the rich, not the poor. There are some other better options for tax relief, such as low-income sales tax credits or earned income tax credits, which benefit the poor and middle class. In addition, sales tax holidays are not limited to state residents, but rather are extended to anyone living within state borders, including tourists and those who live near the border.

State lawmakers decide when and how often sales tax holidays are offered. Some states have annual sales tax holidays, while others have to renew them every year. For example, Louisiana used to offer a 0% sales tax holiday but changed to a discounted rate of 3% in 2016. Some states also have limits on how much can be purchased during the tax-free period, so consumers should be sure to shop smart. Remember that sales tax holidays don’t mean you won’t have to pay any taxes at all – they’re just a way to get a discount on the things you need most.

Net-zero homes

According to the National Association of Home Builders, nearly half of California new-home buyers would prioritize buying an energy-efficient home over another type. In the survey, new homeowner was asked whether they would be willing to save at least $1,000 annually on utilities and other costs associated with owning a home. Of course, looks and amenities are important, but energy efficiency is often taken for granted. And that’s not surprising, as a recent study found that fewer than one-third of new-home buyers consider its importance.

While California homebuyers have a growing number of options when it comes to buying a new home, many aren’t willing to pay the extra money to build a new energy-efficient home. In the Central Valley, temperatures were predicted to reach 108 degrees Tuesday. The state has become increasingly concerned about climate change and has been pushing new home construction toward net-zero energy by 2020. The state’s first energy-efficient homes are expected to be finished in Q2 2018, and there is a growing trend toward building more energy-efficient homes.

By HomeLight Homes

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Here are the 8 low-maintenance plants for beginners that you can grow in your home without much hassle.

1. Aloe Vera

You might have heard about the incredible benefits of the aloe vera plant, but did you know this plant is the easiest plant to grow indoors? Aloe vera is a low-maintenance plant that grows pretty much on its own. This handsome plant does not need much watering. You should water it only after its soil has gone completely dry, after every two to three weeks. This isn’t much, right? It requires full sun to grow, so you can place it in a windowsill where it receives 6-8 hours of direct sunlight. And this is pretty much it! No long list of care requirements.

2. Snake Plant

The snake plant is another low-maintenance plant that thrives on neglect. It is said that your snake plant will grow lush only if you completely ignore it. You won’t have to water it now and then. It needs to be watered only when its soil is completely dry after the previous watering. It needs to be watering only thrice every month! This is a great opportunity plant for those who often forget to water. This plant does not fuss about sunlight too. It prefers a shady corner; it can also grow in bright, indirect sunlight. You can place it pretty much anywhere inside a home.

3. Philodendron

The lovely Heartleaf Philodendron looks as it would require its owner to be on his toes every time to care for it and to maintain its shape. But it is not true. Philodendron is one of the most gorgeous houseplants that are also so easy-to-grow. If you know the basics of growing a plant, you can easily grow this greeny-fella. You can water it after 1-2 weeks, and you can place it in an east-facing window for partial light exposure. You can turn your house into a complete jungle with this amusing plant and won’t have to do many care thingies. Just what all plant lovers want!

4. Anthurium Magnificum

Another cool plant to add to your plant collection that is also low-maintenance is AnthuriumMagnificum. It is a breathtaking plant that does not need much care apart from some key elements. You will have to water it only after 2 to 3 days in summers. In winters, do not bother with much watering. Just like its cousin species, Philodendron, AnthuriumMagnificum will thrive in bright, indirect sunlight. You can place it near any window inside your home. This is all you have to do to keep this wondrous thing alive and going.

Source

5. Cactus

The indestructible succulent of the plant world is the stunning cactus plant. This robust succulent is known as an indestructible plant because it is so hard to kill. It can face a surprising amount of neglect. This handsome plant lives for more than 200 years! Cool, right? You can grow an indoor cactus plant that will grow old with you! It is an ultra low-maintennace plant that needs to be watered only twice to thrice a month. It is not so fussy about its placement. You can place it in an east-facing window or your bathroom, on your coffee table, or even in your bedroom. It will be happy with you in all spots.

6. Air Plants

Another alluring species that you can grow indoors to beautify your home is Tillandsia or Air Plant. This lovely creature does not need soil to grow, so it does not need much maintenance. It is a low-maintenance, easy-to-care plant that will thrive with regular misting and occasional soaking in water. You should place it in water for two hours after every 10 days for its proper growth. A well-lit spot is perfect for its placement.

7. Pothos

Pothos plant is not only downright gorgeous but also really easy-to-care-for. You can also grow this lovely vine in a glass bottle, half-filled with water. You should replace its water every two to three weeks. If you want to grow this pretty vine in a pot, you must water it every 1-2 weeks once its topsoil gets completely dry. You can place its pot anywhere, where it receives bright, indirect sunlight. This is all that this plant needs to grow vigorously.

8. Bromeliad

Bromeliad is another low-maintenance houseplant that can be grown easily by beginners. This exquisite plant looks like it needs special care and attention, but it does not. You just have to provide it with its basic needs, and after that, this plant will grow on its own. It does not need soil to grow as it has aerial roots, so you can grow it in peat moss. Its needs to be watered only once a week. A bright spot with indirect sunlight is its favorite spot.

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Efficiency and Cost

As most homeowners already know, conventional water heaters are inefficient. When a hot water tank is present, energy is used to keep around 20 to 80 gallons of water hot so that it is ready to use. This method for producing hot water upon immediate demand is inefficient when compared to the other options, such as tankless water heaters, available today. Tank water heaters have become more efficient over the years but if having to replace or purchase a heater for the first time, why not go with the more efficient option?

The reason homeowners may not go with this option is because tankless heaters generally cost more up front. For example if replacing a water heater with a tank, a new venting system must be installed. Surprisingly, this can cost as much as the heater itself. Plus, if you don’t invest in an up-scale model that has earned an Energy Star rating, you could end up saving as little as fifty dollars each year.

Endless Supply

The upside is that in addition to being more efficient and saving homeowners up to forty percent on their energy bills (depending on the type of heater / energy source), tankless water heaters offer additional benefits. For example, if you have a large family or enjoy taking long showers, a tankless heater will provide continuous hot water. With a tank, after prolonged usage, the hot water can run out. Tankless water heaters provide hot water on demand as it is heated as needed. As a result, the supply won’t dwindle as it is being used.

The downside to this is that often, residential wiring is not a fit for supporting tankless water heaters large enough to provide hot water for multiple purposes. This is especially true for when your energy source is electricity. In many cases, homeowners would have to install multiple water heaters to meet all of their needs. In addition to this downfall, if your home has long water lines between the tank and the sources it feeds, a tankless water heater may not be your best option. If the water has a long way to travel, the cold water sitting in the pipes will be the first to shoot out.

Longer Lifetime

Tankless water heaters are known to have a longer lifespan. Known for lasting about twice as long as those containing a tank, tankless water heaters seem to win in terms of longevity. However, it is not uncommon for tankless heaters to require more maintenance and upkeep. With that said, you would have to weigh the options between the two if trying to determine whether the life expectancy of the product outweighs the costs associated with having to constantly maintain it.

Size

Often the determining factor for why someone will swing one way over the other when it comes to tank versus tankless water heaters, is because of size. In smaller homes where space is limited, a tankless water tank may be the only feasible option. With being the size of a briefcase, tankless water heaters reign supreme in this category.

Going Green

Those interested in going green by purchasing energy saving products, will side with the tankless water heaters because numerous tanks are Energy Star certified.

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Did you know that the average family does close to 400 loads of laundry every year?

If you don’t want to drown in a sea of high utility bills, you need to narrow down your choices to the most eco-friendly washers you can find.

Here’s how to do it:

1. Understand The Label

Just seeing an Energy Star label isn’t good enough, because some Energy Star washers are better than others. Instead, go beyond the rating and take a look at all of the different numbers and consumption levels. As long as you know what they all mean, you’ll be able to figure out which washer is perfect for you.

2. Don’t Just Look At Electricity

After all, washers use a whole lot more than just electricity to clean your clothes! In fact, 22% of your household water usage is going to come from your washing machine. That’s why you need to be on the lookout for a model that’s efficient when it comes to water, too.

Fisher & Paykel washing machines fit that bill. They actually have sensors inside that can adjust the water level depending on how many clothes you’ve loaded. That way, you’ll never use more water than you have to.

3. Look For A Larger Capacity

By getting a bigger washing machine, you can combine loads — and, as a result, cut down on the number of times that you have to power up your washer and dryer set.

Plus, the bigger machines will have higher spin cycles — which means they’ll pull out more water and reduce your drying time.

Front loading washers tend to have a larger capacity, but if you can find a bigger top loader, that will work, too. For example, one of the newer washing machines has a 1,000 RPM spin cycle. As a result the dryer that goes with it will only have to work for a fraction of the time!

After all, if you’re going to be stuck doing laundry, you certainly don’t want to use more energy than you have to… Talk about adding insult to injury!

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Biomass fuel can be produced of agricultural residues, industrial leftovers and food wastes as well, besides from woods and crops. Unfortunately raw biomass has low energy thickness. That’s why it is uncomfortable and ineffective for storing and transportation, as well as not suitable to be used without being pre-processed. But after pre-processing, the biomass creates fuel and energy source, which is ecological and effective.

Many people have second thought about using biomass as a heating and electricity source. It can be inconvenient to some extend and sometimes expensive, but will create a lot less pollution in the atmosphere. There are a lot of modern systems, creating energy and electricity, using fossil fuel as source, which can be installed and used in your homes. Biomass can be used to create fuel for stoves and boilers. Biomass energy can be used the simplest way by burning it. Instead of burning the energy in an indoor space, much more effective will be to be burnt in an open space. The heat, which biomass creates, can be used to keep any disclosed area, room and even whole buildings warm. The energy is created by a biomass boiler.

There are plenty of technological systems for heating and creating electricity, based on biomass as a fuel source. Some technologies convert the heat from biomass into another chemical form. There are also some experimental and less popular conversions. There are a lot of processes, which transform the biomass into another form, which is much easier transported, used and stored. Biomass is made entirely of natural materials and doesn’t leave any harmful gases in the atmosphere, after being released.

The most used sources of biomass in the UK are the forests, parks and woodlands. They provide a couple of million tonnes of wood every year, used for biomass fuel, made of branches, woods and forests leftovers. Biomass can be used for producing power, heat, as well as combined heat and power. These are some of the big advantages, which biomass has a fuel source.

Energy crops can also be used as a biomass fuel source. These crops are plants that are planted with the purpose of producing fuel or later be converted into some kind of fuel. These plants are usually trees – Willow, Poplars and others. A lot of wood wastes, paper, sewage and textile leftovers can be used as a biomass fuel source. Plenty of woods, logs, sawdust, wood chips, wood pallets and briquettes can be converted into biomass energy. Straws, poultry litter, corn stover are dry residues, which can be processed and turned into eco-friendly biomass fuel.

The municipal solid wastes, the residues from forests, agricultural leftovers and some trees, planted for energy crops, can be used for creating the renewable energy source, which is the biomass. Instead of wasting these residues and throwing them away, they can be used for creating heat and energy, necessary for our lives. As the technologies develop, more new devices for heating and providing electricity are created, using biomass. It gives us the opportunity to turn unusable wastes into renewable energy source, which has future and can help us diminish the pollution in the atmosphere.

For more info visit TenancyCleaners Chelsea

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Since the sun is simply producing and providing the universe with great power on an everyday basis, it is safe to believe that it will provide the world with renewable energy at all times.

So how do the solar hot water heating systems work?

These sun powered heating systems are connected to a polar panel or any other electrical source which is connected to a solar power producing system. The panel or the power producing system is a module that is made up of photovoltaic cells working together to convert the sun’s energy to electricity.

This panel or electrical system is rated by its output which may range from 100 to 320 watts. One panel may or may not be enough to power an entire house but it may be good enough for one solar hot water heating system.

Therefore, if you are going to buy or order a solar panel or photovoltaic module, you should always consider the necessary power rating of the part you are going to use. One solar panel may be enough for powering one heating system but for a whole lot of solar hot water heating systems, you might need more.

To ensure that you will get the perfect power system for you heating needs, choose the panel with the appropriate rating then. For best result, avoid deciding on your own and ask the help of the expert on this matter – from your dealer or agent. This guy will surely know which panel rating is best for your current electrical needs so don’t take chances.

You know how bad the climate can be now that severe changes have been happening due to pollution and carelessness of people. Definitely, you wouldn’t want to add to these growing environment problems.

This is the main reason why you are seeking for a greener, cleaner, and renewable energy for your heating system. But that is not something that is wishful thinking because there are actually solar panel manufacturers and providers that are into this stuff these days.

Just make sure that you are able to get the correct rating and output for your solar hot water heating systems.

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So for some, the following may not be feasible to implement into their homes; however, for those who have deep pockets and want to reduce future energy costs, you may check out the latest devices and systems to do so.

For most homeowners, there is a long list of affordable upgrades that can be performed with little expense other than materials and the time it takes to install them. The most important component of an energy-efficient home is its insulation. Start by making sure that your home is well insulation by inspecting attic space to ensure there isn’t any gaps, then moving on to windows and doors to make sure they make an airtight seal when closed.

For those seeking the most modern innovations in energy-efficient home improvement, check out:

Solar shingles – this marvel of modern technology produces energy just like solar panels; however, these are fully integrated into the roof and don’t clash with a home’s design.

Home automation – an integrated home automation system can reduce energy usage by controlling almost anything in a home at the touch of a button or swipe of the finger. Everything inside the home, from lighting and fans, air conditioning, alarm systems, cameras, and an array of other appliances may be turned on, off, or manipulated via smartphone, tablet, or internet device. Unfortunately, the price tag is in the tens of thousands for a fully automated system.

Electrochromic windows – homeowners can now control the amount of light, heat, and glaze allowed into the home with window glass coated with layers of electrochromic materials. These can darken in response to a low-voltage charge, but when the charge is removed the windows become transparent. A homeowner can then enjoy the sun’s warm rays in the winter and avoid the ray’s heat in the summer. Depending on the project these type of windows may run $50 a square foot.

Geothermal heating and cooling – a geothermal pump employs the insulating properties of the earth to provide heating, cooling, and hot water for the home. Water or antifreeze flows in underground pipes, carrying heat throughout the home during the winter months. In the summertime, the system draws heat from the home transferring it to the earth. This modern solution to heating and cooling a home can run about $20,000 with a payback period of seven years.

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One of the areas we can make the biggest impact is in the home improvement arena; items such as conventional flooring and furniture are produced in ways that harm the environment on many levels; sustainable practices are also sorely lacking.

If you are interested in partaking in green remodeling efforts, a great place to start is flooring; here are some tips on choosing materials that allow you to be more eco-friendly without sacrificing quality or aesthetics.

Suggestions for Hardwood

If you really want to buy hardwood but are concerned about the negative impact conventional production has on the environment (which is extensive), you do have some eco-conscious options. Look for products that carry the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certification.

This organization has a rigorous certification process that carefully examines the forest management techniques in terms of how well it practices sustainability, limiting air and water pollution and reducing harm to wildlife and the local population. Products coming from FSC-certified forests were produced in a responsible manner and you can feel good knowing you made a ‘’green’’ purchase.

You might also consider buying reclaimed wood, which was once part of structures that have been renovated or demolished. It is in good condition and has been thoroughly cleaned. This type of wood often has a lot of ‘’character’’ and may be a good choice if you are looking for a unique look for your hardwood flooring.

Bamboo

Bamboo flooring is an excellent eco-friendly choice; this highly sustainable grass can grow back to maturity in as little as three to six years; compare that to trees typically used for flooring purposes, which can be 20 years and often much longer. It is also highly durable and certain types, such as natural uncarbonized and woven strand can be just as hard or even harder than maple and oak.

It is also highly resistant to water damage, hypoallergenic and super-easy to clean. Certain bamboo products are produced with adhesives that can emit harmful substances into the air called volatile organic compounds (VOCs)—you want to inquire about this when shopping.

Cork

Cork flooring is another good choice; it is a soft wood that creates a very comfortable walking surface. Like bamboo, this material is highly sustainable; the cork can be harvested right from the outer bark of the tree, meaning it does not even need to be cut down. It takes only nine years to grow back fully. It can stand up well to furniture and markings but is vulnerable to puncture by sharp objects.

Cork naturally contains a substance called suberin, which provides natural resistance to mold, insects and rotting. It also absorbs sound well and provides insulation.

Carpet Considerations

If you are more of a carpet person, you also have a lot of options in the eco-friendly department. Conventional carpet is problematic for a numerous reasons; materials are frequently made of petroleum by-products and adhesives and other materials used in the manufacturing process can be harmful to the health of the environment and you personally.

Look for carpets made with natural materials such as wool, sea grass, sisals and jutes. You also want to make sure the carpet is made with natural fiber backing and either has been made with limited use of toxic adhesives or substances such as natural latex. Opt for carpets that do not require padding or choose padding made from recycled materials.

When it comes to installation, look for water-based adhesives with low amount of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) or consider tacking.

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Save on Water

There are lots of great ways for the average homeowner to decrease their water consumption through some simple modifications. Most of these suggestions are fairly inexpensive, and can yield immediate results on your water bill.

1. Install low flow showerheads and faucets. There are numerous showerheads and faucets on the market designed to decrease the amount of water consumption while not sacrificing water pressure. Stop by your local home improvement store and ask about low flow faucets. Instillation is quick and easy, and by next month you should be seeing dollars back in your pocket.
2. Check your pipes for leaks. One of the biggest wastes of water can be unseen leaks, which can cost you hundreds of dollars annually. Be sure to check your pipes regularly for any potential leaks, and use your water meter as a gauge by which you can measure potential wasted water. This is perhaps the quickest, easiest, cheapest, and most effective way to save money on your water bull.
3. Install water efficient washing machines, dishwashers, and toilets. This option might be relatively more expensive, but can yield some impressive results down the road. Installing appliances that conserve water can save you hundreds over the course of their lifetime, and can more than pay for themselves. Do some research, shop around, and see what brands and models best fit your budget and lifestyle.
4. Install greywater or rainwater irrigation systems. If you regularly water your lawn, installing a greywater or rainwater irrigation system might be worth the initial cost. Greywater is water that has been used in the home, but is still safe to be used with plants (faucet runoff, rinse cycles in your washing machine or dishwasher, shower runoff), while rainwater is simply collected rainwater from sidewalks, gutters, etc. These systems will generally cost more than the other ideas on this list, however the results can be dramatic, especially if you water your lawn with any frequency. There are companies that specialize in green building in Manitowoc that are more than familiar with these systems, and would be happy to assist you in the design and instillation.

Save on Electricity

Electricity can be another significant drain on a homeowner’s pocketbook. Many of these suggestions are again, very affordable, and can more than pay for themselves in as little as a few months.

1. Install energy efficient light bulbs. This one is going to be the cheapest on this list, for if this is out of your price range, you might not need to read any further. That said, this tip is going to be very affordable, and depending on your usage, can pay for itself in a very short period of time (especially in those dark Wisconsin winters). Energy efficient bulbs require less electricity, and last significantly longer than conventional bulbs, so you will save not only on your energy bill, but on future expenditures on light bulbs. Energy efficient light bulbs are available just about everywhere light bulbs are sold, and are usually no more expensive than other alternatives, most costing less than a dollar more per bulb. With a life expectancy several times greater, the savings is immediate.
2. Ask for an energy audit. Energy audits are inspections of your home to see where you are losing the most energy ($$$), to help you diagnose the cause of the problems, and offer solutions that can help save you money in the long run. These audits do cost money, and offer no direct returns, however they can help point you in the right direction when it comes to upgrading or modifying you home. If you plan on making any significant changes to your home, and energy audit should be your first step, and can help you save not only on energy, but on the costs of the upgrades.
3. Install a high efficiency water heater. Water heating can be one of the largest single uses of energy in a home, especially in winter. Installing an energy efficient water heater can be a little pricy, but it can return significant results immediately on energy (as well as water consumption!). Many rebates are available online to help lessen the initial cost, so be sure to check the internet for potential savings in your area.
4. Install energy efficient windows. The majority of heat lost through a home is lost through its windows. When people speak about rooms being “drafty”, it is almost certainly the result of poorly maintained and insulated windows. There are many types, models, and styles of windows available that can help you cut down on your energy bill by significantly decreasing the amount of heat lost. Be sure to shop around, as windows can be expensive, but these products are usually able to pay for themselves in just a few years (and you have new windows, decreasing future maintenance costs).
5. Install energy efficient insulation. This one can be on the higher end, pricewise, but can return a significant amount of that money in a few years’ time. Adding additional, efficient insulation to a home can drastically decrease heating and cooling costs. Insulation of pipes can decrease the amount of energy that is put in to heating water, and you won’t have to run the faucet for an extended period of time to wait for the water to warm up, saving on water as well. This has the added benefit of making your home more soundproof, and outside noises more quiet.

While this list is fairly extensive, it is by no means all-inclusive. Be sure to check online for other tips to save energy, especially as technology continues to improve. Be on the lookout for more energy-saving tips in the future!

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1. Roof insulation

Investing in the right roof insulation can prevent a significant amount of heat from entering your roof and as a result, your home can enjoy cooler temperatures in summer and warmer temperatures in winter. Aside from minimising your energy output, the benefits of going green also include reduced energy costs of the life time of your home, meaning you’ll be able to save money on other things – like home décor or a new swimming pool!

2. Window Glazing

In terms of energy saving, windows are often overlooked as the common energy-sapping culprits in your home. However, windows can be a significant source of heat loss in winter and heat gain in summer. By opting for double glaze and insulating glass, you can dramatically cut your house’s energy costs during the summer and winter months.

3. Hot water Systems

Opt for gas hot water system with a 5-star energy efficiency rating – in the long run this can save you approximately fifteen percent of running costs. An even better energy efficient option is to install a solar hot water system which is now even cheaper to install due to the federal government’s solar hot water rebate.

4. Dishwashers

When looking for a dishwasher be sure to select one which has an energy efficient rating of 3.5 stars  or above. Each star equates to a thirty percent reduction of running costs, not to mention a reduction in water bills. Also be on the look out  for energy saving features such as half-load settings and water economy options.

5. Lighting

Halogen and incandescent lights are huge energy sappers. For a better greener alternative, opt for fluorescent light bulbs. Not only do they last on average eight times longer than regular halogen lights, but they use only twenty percent of than the halogen equivalent. If you swapped all your lights with florescent lighting, you could effectively cut 80% off your lighting bills.

So, whether you’re looking to buy a new house, or upgrade your existing home, keep these green tips in mind to help save both the environment, and money on your energy bills!

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