Energy Savers Guide
This guide shows you how easy it is to cut your energy use at home and also on the road. The easy, practical solutions for saving energy include tips you can use today -- from your roof and landscaping to appliances and lights. They are good for your wallet and for the environment -- and actions that you take help reduce our national needs to produce or import more energy, thereby improving our energy security.
Ahorre Energía
Esta guía le muestra lo fácil que es reducir el uso de energía en su casa, y también en los caminos. Estas soluciones fáciles y prácticas para ahorrar energía incluyen consejos que usted puede usar hoy mismo, en el techo, en el paisaje que rodea su casa, en sus electrodomésticos y en iluminación. Son buenos para su monedero y también para el medio ambiente -- y las medidas que usted tome ayudarán a reducir las necesidades del país para producir o importar más energía, mejorando así nuestra seguridad energética.
Guide to Cool Roofs
The immediate and long-term benefits of roofs that stay cool in the sun have made cool roofing the fastest growing sector of the building industry. Cool roofs help lower indoor air temperatures by reflecting sunlight and decreasing heat absorption. Learn about the range of cool roofing options to fit your needs.
Guide to Home Energy Assessments
A proper home energy assessment -- also called a home energy audit -- is the first step to lowering your energy bills. Learn about the most cost-effective measures you can take to improve the energy efficiency of your home and how to save money on energy bills.
Guide to Air Sealing
Air sealing is one of the most cost-effective ways to improve the comfort and energy efficiency of your home. This guide explores the basics of air sealing, how to detect leaks, and hiring a certified professional contractor for best results.
Guide to Geothermal Heat Pumps
Geothermal heat pumps, which use the earth's natural temperature to heat and cool, are among the most efficient and comfortable way to control temperatures in your house. Geothermal heat pump systems, consisting of the heat exchanger and the heat pump, heat and cool a home by transferring heat to and from the earth. Learn about the different types of geothermal heat pumps to see if this technology is right for you.
Guide to Home Insulation
When used properly, insulation material can make your home more comfortable and energy-efficient, and can significantly reduce heating and cooling bills throughout the year. Learn about the different types of insulation and their costs.
Guide to Kitchen Appliances
Every appliance has two price tags: what you pay to purchase it, and what you pay for the energy and water it uses. Reducing energy and water consumption in the kitchen means choosing your new appliances with care and using your existing ones more efficiently.
Guide to Home Landscaping
Simple landscaping techniques -- such as using trees, vines, and shrubs to create shade in the summer or block wind in the winter -- can help cut heating and cooling bills. Learn about home landscaping for different seasons and climates.
Guide to Home Heating & Cooling
Whether you are in the market for a new heating and cooling system or looking for ways to make your existing one more efficient, these guidelines can help you get the most out of your investment.
Guide to Durable Attics
The number one enemy facing an attic is moisture. This primer explains how to keep attics dry and well ventilated to help ensure durability and avoid moisture problems, while also lowering heating and cooling costs.
Guide to Home Ventilation
Why do you need to ventilate your home? Without proper ventilation, an otherwise insulated and airtight house will seal in harmful pollutants, such as carbon monoxide, and moisture that can damage a house. Learn how to maintain the proper exchange of indoor and outdoor air.
Guide to Energy-Efficient Lighting
Lighting accounts for about 15 percent of an average home’s electricity use, so it pays to make energy-efficient choices. Follow the principles outlined in this guide to help you light your home in a pleasant and attractive way while minimizing your energy use.
Guide to Energy-Efficient Windows
Replacing your home’s windows with ENERGY STAR® qualified windows will improve indoor comfort and filter out damaging ultraviolet light, while potentially saving you hundreds of dollars a year on heating and cooling costs. Learn about ENERGY STAR® standards and window installation essentials.
Guide to Home Water Efficiency
Improving water efficiency in the home can decrease your water usage and save you money. Water heating can account for nearly a quarter of the energy consumed in your home. Meanwhile, toilets can account for almost a third of an average home’s indoor water consumption. The guide outlines how you can take steps to conserve water -- by fixing leaky toilets, installing low-flow showerheads, and reusing water -- without sacrificing conveniences.
Guide to Passive Solar Home Design
Passive solar design incorporates features in your home and its natural surroundings that harness the sun’s low rays in winter and deflect the sun’s high rays in summer to naturally warm and cool the interior. Learn how to reap the benefits of a passive solar home design.
Guide to Renewable Energy
Have you already made your home energy efficient? The next step is to consider renewable energy options. Learn how installing geothermal heat pumps, solar systems, and wind turbines can save energy, cut utility bills, and sometimes earn homeowners money.
Guide to Small Wind Energy Systems
Harnessing wind to make electricity and meet at least a portion of your power needs provides immediate and long-term environmental and financial benefits. Read this primer to figure out if you are a good candidate for a small wind energy system.