March 27, 2010 in Blog by admin

BEING GREEN

Being GREEN is conservation, preservation and sustainability to lower carbon footprints which reduces CO-2 emissions and slows global warming.

We conserve energy utilization

We conserve water use

We conserve and preserve the environment by using sustainable resources

We recycle and avoid the use of plastics

We design safer and more comfortable homes

Florida ranks as one of the highest consumer of electricity per household among all the states. Heating and cooling contribute to a minimum of 50-70% of your electric bill. Excellent low-e windows double pane and sealed without leaks and improved blown in insulation of R-30 can dramatically lower cost. Orientation of your structure to avoid direct sunshine exposure and the use of awnings, window shutters, and landscape shading all help. A high SEER energy efficient AC unit with sealed air ducts ( not just wrapped) lower costs. Water heaters can be powered by solar panels (PV) as well as pool heaters. Select energy efficient ENERGY STAR appliances which are at a minimum 15-20% more efficient. Select CFL and LED lighting.

Become ECO-friendly and conserve water. Change your habits in running water unnecessarily, use low flow faucet heads, use dual-flush toilets, and consider recycling non-toilet water sources.

Select flooring and cabinetry materials which are sustainable like stone and bamboo. Look for Green certification labels. Woods can be labeled from sustainable forest sources.

Healthy homes have no out-gassing from VOC’s.Select zero or low products for paint, paste, glue, carpet.

When ordering items consider the carbon footprint of manufacture and transportation.

What is LEED?

Usgbc.org,energy.gov,epa.govwatersense

Jerry Kumin