Repairing Sash Windows Can Be More Environmentally Friendly Rather Than Replacing Them
February 28, 2010 | Leave a Comment
Sash windows date back to the Victoria or Gregorian times and are still featured in many homes today. Because the original windows are made of softwood, they are likely to deteriorate over time and could warp or rot. You will need to consider the options to replace or repair your original windows and it is important to note that. Repairing Your Sash Windows Is Better For The Environment Than Replacing Them And Also Could Save You Some Money Too.
By restoring your windows you can fix all the problems but maintain the historic look and integrity of the house or building. No matter how original replacement windows look they will never be able to offer the same feel as the originals.
The original sash windows often have the two horizontal panes as well as one vertical pane running across the length. By have all these panes it increases the ventilation and provides increased comfort during hot months. This would also save you money which would be spent or air conditioning your home. The new windows which are produced today often do not come with the additional top pane.
If you think that you are wasting energy because of your old windows, you can simply look into making a few small enhancements rather than spending money on replacing the whole window. By simply sealing all small holes in the window frames you could reduce the amount of air which leaves and enters your home.
You also need to think about the environment when considering replacing your windows. More than likely the old ones will end up in a landfill somewhere which is not conducive to being environmentally friendly. If push comes to shove and you decide to replace the windows, try sending the old ones to an antiques store who may get some use from them.
Many people do not think of the fact that their original windows have more than likely been providing good insulation for over fifty years. Maybe you need to realize that with the correct restoration they can provide another fifty years of service where new windows will more than likely need to be replaced after ten years in your home. Just like the old saying goes, they do not make things of that quality anymore.
You will find that sash windows can be repaired rather then replacing them and harming the environment. You can find businesses that can get your sash window renovation London. You should get with sash window company London.
Safely Throwing Away Spiral Energy Saver Bulbs
February 24, 2010 | Leave a Comment
Slate and Artsmith - Maybe you are saving the world a little bit every time that you purchase one of those energy saver bulbs. They do use less energy, and they last longer, which means that there is less trash from throwing out old bulbs. But there is a hidden secret, a toxic killer which lurks within many of these bulbs. Mercury, 5 milligrams of it, about as much as the tip of a pencil, and it is killing the world.
Well, not really. But it doesn’t help. Every time you throw out one of those bulbs you are adding a toxic element to the environment, however it’s not very much. In fact many household items, such as old time thermostats and thermometers, use much higher amounts of the substance and we have been throwing them out for years. Also, by the very nature of electricity itself, power plants that burn fossil fuels release tons of mercury into the environment each year, so using less electricity can actually offset the mercury in the bulbs.
However the best thing you can do is to just recycle those bulbs and make sure that they never release their toxic innards into environment. The way to do this is to find a CFL recycling center in your neighborhood. Ace Hardware, Home Depot, and Ikea all accept these bulbs for recycling at any of their locations. Additionally, you can search for CFL recycling centers at earth911.org, which will list them by location and proximity to you.
However many people live too far from a recycling center to make this method of disposal efficient. They would end up using so much gas fueling the car to get to the center, that much of the energy saving, and especially the money saving value would be lost. These people have two options, find a for profit company that will accept CFL’s via mail, or save up your bulbs and take them back in bulk.
If your local community doesn’t offer CFL recycling services, then you may want to get creative. Call your local garbage pick up and find out about their CFL recycling policies. Call you local government, and write letters, asking that they institute some sort of program or reform. You can even contact your local news agencies to see if you can get some coverage for your cause.
Honestly, all of this is a pain in the butt. People buy these spiral bulbs because it is an easy way to feel like your saving the environment, and it is a way to save money. Most people won’t take the cause to the next level. I’m not sure that I will necessarily do any of these things. However your level of involvement is directly connected to your commitment to the cause, and those who do go to the next level are to be commended.
This article was written by Jim Slate for PebbleZ.com - An environmentally friendly company specializing in all natural home decor products crafted from mountain born slate, sandstone, marble, and other various types of stone.
An Overview Of LEED: Leadership In Energy And Environmental Design
February 9, 2010 | Leave a Comment
LEED stands for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design. The process is strictly voluntary, and provides a way for buildings to be acknowledged as “green”. What this verifies is that a building utilizes its resources in a way that is protective of the environment. Since 1998, when the program began, almost 15,000 certifications have been granted. It is estimated that in 2010, a minimum of 10% of new buildings will apply to be certified.
Certifications are categorized as Certified, Silver, Gold, or Platinum. The requirements increase as the levels rise from the lowest, Certified, to the highest, Platinum. Each category has a level of points that must be earned to receive the designation. Points are earned in several different areas, including sustainable sites, water efficiency, energy and atmosphere, materials and resources, indoor environment, and innovation and design.
In the category of sustainable sites, points are awarded for the protection of the habitat, light pollution, and how well open space is utilized. This area also includes alternative transportation, and features such elements as bicycle storage and the use of low emission vehicles. Access to the public transportation system is also in this classification. The handling of storm water and sufficient parking arrangements are in this category as well.
As the name implies, water efficiency measures how efficiently a building uses water. Landscaping and waste water are two of the items included. Energy and atmosphere addresses such issues as the control of refrigerants, the use of wind or solar power, and overall efficiency in energy use. Materials and resources focuses on whether any materials used are from recycled sources, including existing roofs or walls. Waste while construction is under way is also rated.
There are prerequisites that must be met in the category of indoor environment. These are the control of tobacco smoke and meeting minimum air quality requirements. Then, evaluations are based on the monitoring of outside air admitted, and the quality of the ventilation. Materials used, like paints and glues, must be those types classified as low fume. Employee comfort is also rated, with points for daylight, temperature, and views.
Innovation in design applies to the architecture and engineering of the structure. It is applied based on how the building controls its usage of fossil fuels, its emission of greenhouse gases, and what its carbon footprint is. Additional points can be earned in this category if the designer is accredited by LEED.
Each type of structure has its own criteria. Complete neighborhoods can apply, as can existing commercial structures which are being renovated. Other types included schools, homes, commercial construction, and retail construction.
It is not at all compulsory to seek LEED certification. Should a building owner wish to do so, he submits an application which details why the structure is eligible. This requires the payment of a fee for the registration and for the certification.
Having a LEED certification will be a great way to expand your opportunities in fields related to the environment. It’s easy to learn more about the steps you can take to begin achieving your LEED goals today!
How Electricity Is Produced From Wind Energy
February 8, 2010 | Leave a Comment
Wind energy has been used for many years as individuals have used wind power for sailing, wind mills for manufacturing and pumping water and more recently conversion into electricity using wind turbines. Wind power is a renewable energy that is considered a good option instead of burning fossil fuels. Of all the renewable energy sources it is the most efficient and you only need a light breeze to produce electricity.
The very first uses of wind for energy was in the form of wind mills and sailing as people have been using wind for more than thousands of years to propel ships. Windmills have also been used for many years for milling grain as well as pumping water for irrigation. These irrigation windmills was the main reason that farming and ranching could occur in the US, as there are vast stretches of land that do not have ready access to water.
The very first usage of wind to create electricity occurred in 1888. The first wind turbine was used to create hydrogen in the 1890s but it was soon converted to producing electricity. Small wind turbines are used to provide power to rural buildings and today there are larger wind farms that are being used to produce electricity for large networks. What is known as the modern wind industry really began in 1979 when wind turbines began to be regularly produced.
Wind occurs because the surface of the earth is not evenly heated, as the poles get less sunlight than the equator. This causes cooled and heated air to move which in turn produces wind. It is projected that the amount of power that could be harnessed form the wind is more than the human population currently uses. So just think about having almost cost free power.
The amount of power that is generated by the wind is dependent on the speed and as the wind speed doubles the amount of power produced increases eight fold. However there is a cap as wind turbines can only go so fast and generate so much energy. You do not need high winds at all time though as a lot of energy can still be produced with 15 mph breezes. As such, wind power is a valuable method for alternative energy.
The main issue with wind energy is storage as wind power cannot be dispatched at different times but needs to be used immediately. Many companies have looked into different types of batteries, storing it within the energy grid and even hydroelectricity. Many times surplus energy from domestic wind turbines are fed back into the electrical grid and the energy company will purchase this energy and you will receive electricity credits.
A wind turbine used to collect the power of wind will contain a rotor shaft, gearbox and brake assembly. Generally within a wind farm the different turbines are interconnecting for power collection and communication networking. Wind energy uses induction generators to collect the power and change it to electricity.
The best types of generators are doubly fed machines as they will function when errors occur within the grid. You need to be aware of the power factor, dynamic behavior and frequency constancy when a system fault should occur.
Wind power should be thoroughly considered in order to promote a greener society. Educate your children to become future scientists by purchasing them science lab equipment.
Wind Power: Saving The Environment, One Kilowatt At A Time
February 4, 2010 | Leave a Comment
More of us than ever are concerned with both protecting the environment and our wallets. People used to think that using alternative energies would simply be too costly to ever be practical, but with the rising costs of energy, many are starting to change their position.
The cost of installing a wind generator is a lot less than you may think and it quickly pays for itself by saving you a lot of money on your electricity bill. There are also a variety of incentive programs to encourage people to switch to alternative energies. These programs may allow you to be reimbursed for part of the cost of installing your wind generator.
You are not the only one that is concerned about saving the planet so this is why it is easy to find that you will not only be encouraged to take such steps but you can also be financially helped to do so. Not only will the installation of the wind generator save you money by not paying so much to the electric companies, but you can also sell the energy produced.
Electricity suppliers are required to buy the extra energy generated by consumers who use wind generators and other alternative energy sources who produce more than they can use. You’ll be doing your part by powering your home with clean energy and by selling the excess to your local utility; you’re also supplying clean renewable energy to other households in your area!
You are also making some money while doing it so it is truly a win-win situation for everyone involved. And if you are worried about whether or not you will be able to efficiently install the wind generators, do not worry. There are many step-by-step instructions available out there. It is a pretty simple job and as long as you are installing it all on the top of your house, you will be able to capture as much wind as possible.
In case you ever need more electricity than you’re generating at the moment, you’ll want a backup supply. Leave your existing electrical system in place so that you won’t suffer power outages.
You’ll also want to stay connected to your local utility company because this allows you to sell them your surplus electricity. When you make more than you can use with your wind generator (which will be more often than not), then you can sell the extra. You’ll also be using clean energy and helping others to do the same. Naturally, the larger the turbines you install, the more power you’ll produce.
This does not mean that you have to go with the largest that is out there though if that is not something you can afford at this time. Over time, you can add more and more generators, or larger ones, and you will be able to see that you are bringing in much more renewable energy.
See how you can build residential wind turbines for your own house and save cash on your electric bill. Making your own wind power generators may save you hundreds on the cost of buying one at the store as well and still make lots of power.
Phoenix Solar Panels: Are They Right For You
February 4, 2010 | Leave a Comment
If you were driving through a residential area of Phoenix solar panels would not be a likely sight. Solar energy is a free and clean technology. Free in that you are getting energy from the sun. This energy is also renewable. Unfortunately, installing and maintaining panels is not cheap.
Utility companies are promoting solar panels by telling us that in the long run we will save money. Using the sun to generate electricity for our homes will lower your monthly bills. Energy saved in the summer months will help alleviate the higher monthly bills in the winter months.
Maybe I watch too many movies, but I associate Phoenix with a scene showing an orange color terrain. The sun is beating down on cracked clay and a scorpion walking across the screen. Mind you I know this is probably not the case in most parts of Arizona but if it were then Phoenix should be able to be powered by the sun forever. But the truth is solar panels are not a common scene in Phoenix.
One of the main reasons Phoenix residents are not able to take advantage of green energy is the cost. Although there are tax credits from the government when you purchase these panels for your home, the cost is still substantial for an average income family. It is the larger companies that are able to afford the benefits of this technology.
Even though you pay a lot of money for these panels they still require maintenance. They are prone to cracking. They tend to work better in cooler, sunny weather than in extremely hot locations.
Arizona has renewable energy requirements that are not being met. The utility companies have come up with an idea to give away free solar panels to a couple hundred customers to meet these requirements. They are hopeful that the feedback from this promotion will be positive and more of their customers will want to move forward on their purchases.
Looking to find the best deal on Mesa solar panels, then visit our solar energy resources to find the best advice on Scottsdale, AZ solar panels for you.
Another Take On California Solar Energy.
February 1, 2010 | Leave a Comment
About solar energy:
Energy that comes from the sun could now be secured by people to be used later. California solar energy is being introduced to our lives now. When we hear of the words solar and energy we think of cars. This energy is being used widely across California for more then just cars, but for other things to.
Problems with it.
Still there are many issues that could arise with using energy that comes from the sun. It could only be used when the sun is out. And the electric companies still do not agree with getting rid of the bills altogether. California and the nations need to look into energy storage later usage.
Change to a green earth.
Start using less energy during the day. As we see our sun is a huge pot of energy, waiting to be used. Install solar pads on top of your house to be your main source of energy. More cars and other things are being used with this energy. It saves you crazy money and helps the earth out.
Have more spending money.
The government gives you money to install these solar pads. There are tax credits and rebates that you will be able to apply toward the cost. Thinking about your house payments, yes in the end of the year you may qualify for property tax reductions.
How much am I spending?
You will be spending around $12,000 to $28,000 for an installation. In a single family home they will use about 1.5 to 3.0 watts of energy. That’s expansive, more then just a one time payment. Oh, and don’t forget this is not including any of the rebates or credits.
Synopsis of it all:
California solar energy should be used across the nation. This type of energy will help save on bills and save on resources. It could be a pain to install or more money then you have right now, but think about the effects it will have on this earth.
Want to find out more about Los Angeles solar energy, then visit Lee Torrence’s site on how to choose the best solar energy for your needs.
Homemade Energy Guides Helping People Save Money On Energy Costs
January 7, 2010 | Leave a Comment
Ever since the recession ransacked the world, there are many people that have been searching for homemade energy guides to assist them with learning how to save money for their daily energy expenses. The needs for renewable sources of energy have never been higher, and the need to save money has never been higher in respects either.
There are a lot of people that are simply at their wits ends, by trying to afford their basic necessities. There are three things that a home must have in order to provide an adamant living place for people. A home must be powered with electricity, have water and also have a source of heat.
The sad thing is that many people are finding it difficult to be able to afford their primary expenses, let alone anything else. However, in a time where so many people are struggling to make it, electric companies are trying to capitalize on people’s pain by raising their rates to extremely high scales.
You can always invest in equipment to set outside of your home that will generate energy for you. Equipment such as solar panels and wind powered turbines are awesome and they can save you an immense amount of money as well.
However, the costs for these systems are high. This is why there are so many different energy guides that have been surfacing throughout the years. There are guides that will teach you how to completely convert your home for as little as $200.
The question that remains is why would you want to continue paying your electric company money that you cannot afford, when you can simply make your own energy outside of your home and save an immense amount of money without any qualms.
Homemade energy guides are providing the solution for many people, and assisting a plethora of people in different ways to save money, not give away the little bit of money that they do have to large corporations.
Yes, there is a such thing as home made energy. When searching for home made energy, you can find a lot of information on the Internet.
A Few Pointers To Help You Pass Your Leed Certification Exams
December 30, 2009 | Leave a Comment
Since today a lot of attention is being focused on green buildings it has generated demand for people to know how to measure the ‘greenness’ of buildings and for this they need LEED Certification. LEED that stands for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design is really a system that can help determine the ‘greenness’ of buildings as well homes.
It follows that in case you want to construct or even design LEED Certified structures and buildings that you will have to have obtained certification in LEED which in turn is possible by successfully completing the LEED AP examination which helps in getting accreditation with US Green Building Council or the USGBC.
If you want to prepare well for LEED Certification you will certainly need to visit the website of USGBC and there read their LEED Reference Guide that is however quite voluminous but nevertheless it is an essential guide for everyone wishing for certification in LEED.
In fact, it is important that you gain thorough understanding of various codes and standards that are referred to in the guide book and it is also necessary that you understand all the formulae that too are included in the contents of this book.
In addition, it is important to understand more about credits as the LEED system actually revolves around a series of different credits that are each worth anything from 1 to 10 points. You must also learn to calculate how a certain scenario helps you to earn a certain number of credits and of course you will also need to learn different kinds of formulae.
The website of USGBC does however have different credit templates that also must be learnt since the LEED AP examination requires having to fill credit templates. In addition you have to know which credit requires which person to be responsible for it and in addition you need to know what kind of documentation is required. All of these bits of information can be found in the USGBC site but it does require having to make a few independent searches of the site before you find what you are looking for.
Other aspects to getting certified in LEED include understanding the way that LEED is being administered.
It also helps to try your hand at solving practice tests that are meant to help you gauge how well prepared you are for the LEED Certification. Finally, you will want to sign up for the testing process and this is possible by using the USGBC site. The test itself consists of eighty multiple choice problems which will be generated randomly. Even if you fail the test you can take it again.
When you’re gearing up for LEED AP Certification, you will do best if you take LEED Certification classes. Make sure the classes are USGB accredited so you’ll be prepared for your examination. Learn more about the LEED exam and classes, here.
Some Ways To Become A LEED Green Associate
December 29, 2009 | Leave a Comment
There is a growing green industry throughout the world. Individuals working in green technologies and industries can be found in solar energy, building design, hydro energy, and many other parts of new construction and retro-fitting of older buildings. When a building or alternative energy source is designed and created using green technology, it is inspected by a LEED Green Associate prior to it receiving the LEED certification.
Many governments now provide benefits and incentives to businesses incorporating the use of green technology in their building and designs. When a LEED project receives certification the company not only enjoys the incentives they receive, but also the savings that will be seen in reduced energy use and a better environment.
The Associate must meet strict requirements to qualify for testing by LEED. The test is in depth and addresses all aspects of green technology. To qualify for testing the individual must demonstration green building expertise in non-technical fields.
There are many requirements to meet when an individual wishes to become an associate. They must have attestations from employers on the LEED registered projects that they have worked. In addition, they must have a history of working in a sustainable industry and education that is focused on green building principles.
There are many courses available to prepare a person for the LEED Associate examination. Individual who are working toward their certification must take several courses that are provided both in a classroom and on-line. There are also courses provided to certified associates who much re-certify on a regular basis.
When the Associate inspects a building there are specific areas that receive a LEED rating based on their environmental and energy effectiveness. The inspector has been specially trained in the items to look for that will have a negative impact on the environment. The report that is completed by the Associate is maintained at the US Green Building Council and is not removed unless problems with the environmental and energy effectiveness of the building has been addressed.
An individual can work in many different types of green jobs to meet the work requirements to take the examination. An individual who works on a LEED project often is able to absorb the information that will be on the examination much more easily. In addition, there are several resources available that help to prepare a person for the exam. A person can take part in courses for test preparation that give in depth information on the contents of the exam.
With more contractors adhering to green technology, there is a greater demand for certified associates. This has resulted in more courses and training being made available for individuals interested in entering the field of green technology. As more incentives are provided by governments, there will be a greater need for inspectors of properties.
After receiving the Green Association LEED certification, an individual may choose to partner with private industry and help them to meet the green requirements for LEED ratings. These associates work very closing with businesses and builders to make sure that all of the requirements for a high rating have been met. By taking advantage of the training programs available, an individual can enter a field that is growing rapidly.
Starting your new career as a LEED Green Associate is easy! Courses and training are available to prepare for LEED Green Associate certification that will give you the advantage you need to succeed!