While browsing through current home listings in my area, I came across one that was advertised as a “GREEN” house. Yes, all caps. The description went on to say that the house had been “GREEN” for eight years. Since there was an open house today I decided to swing by to check it out. (No, that’s not it in the picture!)
The very friendly Realtor explained that the house was green because the previous owner hadn’t used harsh chemicals to clean it. She said they also used low-VOC paint and no chemicals on the lawn.
That’s nice, but I don’t think I’d describe the house as green just because of the cleaners, paint and lawn. There are so many other things you need to consider.
Energy efficiency
- Proper insulation in attic and walls
- Upgraded windows to avoid drafts (single-glazed windows should be replaced)
- Energy Star appliances and light fixtures
- Natural daylight
- Tankless water heater
- Light-colored exterior for reflecting heat
- Trees for shade (particularly deciduous trees on the west side)
- Efficient furnace (Furnaces built before 1992 with a standing pilot may waste up to 35% of their fuel.)
- Radiant floor heat
- Solar power
Water friendly
- Low-flow toilets or a composting toilet
- Water-saving shower heads
- Landscaping that can withstand droughts
- Inspections for leaks
If a Realtor is advertising a house as green, then ask for an energy audit. For help in finding a green home, try EcoBroker. If your dream home isn’t already energy efficient, get estimates before you buy to see how much it will cost to make your home more green.
(Image via futureatlasblog.com/flickr)
Post from: Blisstree