What are the basic tenets of a green home?
• Initial and long term costs and/or savings — Many of the materials used, such as framing lumber are traditional building materials. Other newer and greener materials are available for close to the same cost. Increased levels of Insulation and more efficient windows will typically cost more up front, but will save heating and cooling costs for the long term. • The difference between energy efficiency and energy conservation — Energy conservation includes methods to decrease the energy needed to run the home. This can be as simple as turning off the power to TVs and computers when they are not being used, using compact fluorescent bulbs or increasing insulation levels. Energy efficient equipment uses less energy to get the same result. Newer Energy Star appliances, furnaces and boilers are more efficient than older models. A Green home should be much more energy efficient and utilize many conservation methods and technologies. • Energy savings — Buildings, both residential and commerci
