When shopping for a new home, or renovating your existing property it pays to look energy efficient and environmentally friendly options.  Here are some areas where you can make improvements that will save money and/or improve the air quality of your home.

All home improvements, including landscaping, can contribute to the energy efficiency of the property.  Placement of trees and shrubs on the north side of the home provide shelter from winter winds and shade trees on the southern side can keep a home cool in summer heat.  Conservation landscaping groups plants into separate areas of the landscaping according to their various water needs, (also called Xeriscape - water-wise landscaping).  A conserving landscape can save a lot of water and still look great.  Go to www.waterwiser.org for more information.

When replacing appliances or heating/cooling equipment   always look for the energy star rating to insure that the appliances will be the most cost effective.  It is also important to consider appliance placement when redesigning the kitchen area. For example placing a refrigerator near a heat source such as an oven, heating vent or even in direct sunlight will cause it to use more energy to keep the food cold.   Visit the Energy   Star website, www.energystar.gov for more details.

If you are just redecorating your home, consider using low VOC (volatile organic compound)   paints and carpeting that is environmentally responsible.   Consider the following when deciding on a new carpet:

·         Using carpet tiles rather than rolls to aid in spot replacement and longer life

·         The type of fiber, the recycled content, and the recyclability of the face fiber, backing, and cushion

·         Choosing fiber density and durability for heavy traffic use

·         Choosing a backing or carpet cushion with high recycled content and/or minimal resource use, choosing to eliminate the need for backing in general when not needed.

·         Indoor air quality and the method of installation – adhesives can emit VOCs and create an unhealthy indoor environment.

·         Floor coverings other than carpet make good environmental choices, and perhaps the best environmental choice is to use carpet only where necessary, and maintain and clean it properly to maximize its life.

            For more information on home improvements, go to FTC.gov and click on the the Consumer Protection Tab and the Other Publications button, Shopping for Products & Services - Home Improvement to find some helpful publications regarding energy efficient home improvements and what to look for in a contractor.

Visit our Green Living page for more on the Value of Being Green!