What is the energy payback for photovoltaics? Producing electricity with solar photovoltaics (PV) emits no pollution, produces no greenhouse gases, and uses no finite fossil-fuel resources. The environmental benefits of PV are great. But just as we say that it takes money to make money, it also takes energy to save energy. The term “energy […]
Part 4 of Landscaping for Energy Efficiency. A well-informed and well-designed home admits low-angle winter sun, rejects overhead summer sun, and minimizes the cooling effect of winter winds. If you are building a home, pay attention to its orientation. In the northern hemisphere, it is usually best to bring home long axis in an east-west […]
One problem area in many roof designs occurs at the eave, where there is often insufficient space for full insulation without blocking air flow from the soffit vents. Often the insulation is compressed to fit the space, diminishing its R-value. For a truss roof, consider raised heel or oversized (cantilevered) trusses that form elevated overhangs […]
Part 9 of Get Your Power from the Sun. In some areas, finding a photovoltaic provider can be as simple as picking up the telephone directory and looking under “Solar Energy Equipment and Systems—Dealers.” However, many of the listings are solar water-heating companies and many companies might not be experienced in photovoltaic system design or […]
Part 7 of Get Your Power from the Sun. No single answer applies in every case. But a solar rebate and other incentives can always reduce the cost. Your price depends on a number of factors, including whether your home is under construction and whether photovoltaic is integrated into the roof or mounted on top […]
Part 5 of Get Your Power from the Sun. Can you locate your system so it works well? A well-designed photovoltaic system needs clear and unobstructed access to the sun’s rays for most or all of the day, throughout the year. You can make an initial assessment yourself. If the location looks promising, your photovoltaic provider […]
Part 7 of Ways to Save Money on Energy at Home. Landscaping is a natural and beautiful way to keep your home more comfortable and reduce your energy bills. In addition to adding aesthetic value and environmental quality to your home, a well-placed tree, shrub, or vine can deliver effective shade, act as a wind- […]
Part 5 of Earth Sheltered Houses. The construction materials for each type of structure will vary, depending on characteristics of the site, climate, soils, and design. However, general guidelines show that houses more deeply buried require stronger, more durable construction materials. Materials must provide a good surface for waterproofing and insulation to withstand the pressure […]
Part 3 of Earth Sheltered Houses. There are two basic types of earth-sheltered housing—underground and “bermed” (or banked with earth). Certain characteristics such as the location and soils of your site, the regional climate, and design preferences are central to which type will work best for you. Underground housing means an entire structure built below […]
Part 1 of Cool Your Home Naturally. Keeping cool indoors when it is hot outdoors is a problem. The sun beating down on our homes causes indoor temperatures to rise to uncomfortable levels. Air conditioning provides some relief. But the initial costs of installing an air conditioner and the electricity costs to run it can […]