Today we are all becoming concerned about saving energy, reducing water usage, creating better indoor air quality and reusing recycled building materials. All of these ‘green’ objectives not only are good for the homeowner but also for the environment and future generations.
New construction is not the only source to adopt green programs. We can all do our part by, at the very least, understanding the basics of what we can do to begin going green. First you can begin by determining what green features your home may already have.
If your home has:
If your home has:
- Double pane low E windows
- Energy Star appliances
- 14 sear or higher AZ unit
- 38+ R-value insulation in the wall or attic
- A solar water heater
- Low fiber carpet or special paints approved by LEED
You may already be on your way to becoming green. There are multiple green building programs available to help you understand the green concept. Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED), the Energy Star Program, the National Association or Home Builders —green building programs and many city specific programs. Here in Scottsdale, the city has been a leader in green building programs.
You can actually work toward acquiring a LEED certification for your existing home! The LEED For Existing Buildings Operations and Maintenance manual “provides sustainability guidelines for whole-building cleaning and maintenance, recycling programs and systems upgrades to improve building energy performance, water consumption, indoor environmental quality and material use.”
You can actually work toward acquiring a LEED certification for your existing home! The LEED For Existing Buildings Operations and Maintenance manual “provides sustainability guidelines for whole-building cleaning and maintenance, recycling programs and systems upgrades to improve building energy performance, water consumption, indoor environmental quality and material use.”
One way to improve your energy status is to have a Home Energy Audit and Analysis. This type of inspection uses the latest technology to assess your current energy use. It will identify improvements in a prioritized list that will provide energy savings. Some recommendations may as simple as repairing a leak in the attic, duct system walls or windows to prevent energy from escaping. A local Phoenix metro area certified home inspection company, AJF Engineering, now provides a green energy inspection! The future is 'going green'.
Gary and Claudia Scott—Scottsdale, AZ Real Estate Sales
866-464-2140 - garyandclaudia@cox.net
