Basements

Did you know that the time you spend in your finished basement can be healthier, more comfortable, and more energy efficient if you consider the following steps?

• Improve the indoor air quality by correcting any damp basement problems and testing for radon before you begin the project to save money.
• Seal air leaks and install vapor retarders and insulation.
• Wrap your water heater and six feet of piping to save energy.
• Consider installing an ENERGY STAR labeled heating and cooling system, when replacing your existing system.
• Seal your ducts in unconditioned spaces are properly sealed.
• Consider installing ENERGY STAR labeled lighting to save money and energy, no matter what the space will be used for.
• Install ENERGY STAR labeled windows, doors, and skylights to save money and energy and increase your comfort.
• Make sure the dryer is properly ventilated if your laundry room is in the basement. Consider a clothes washer with the ENERGY STAR label for optimum cleaning that uses less water and energy to operate.

If your remodeled basement will include a Home Office, look for the ENERGY STAR label when choosing computers, laptops, digital duplicatorsmonitors, copiers and fax machines, and printers, scanners, and all-in-one devices. Also, verify that your home PC is using its power management capabilities. A screen saver does not save energy, but an enabled ENERGY STAR labeled monitor will conserve energy by going blank after a preset period of inactivity.

If you are adding a Home Entertainment system in your basement, look for the ENERGY STAR label on TVs and combination units, DVD and home audio products, and other electronics. Typically, these items use almost the same amount of energy whether off or on, but ENERGY STAR labeled home electronics power down to require only a few watts when turned off.