From House To Home

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Certainly rising energy costs have people exploring ways to lower energy expenses. Green, however, isn’t just the color of savings; it’s the choices that leave the world a healthier, happier place for everyone. And people are beginning to examine the products they use, especially when it comes to their homes.

“The green building movement is a grassroots movement...about how we can make our consumption more efficient and conserve natural resources,” says Randy Brown, owner of Randy Brown Architects.

People can make a difference by applying the green philosophy to homes--new and existing--as well as to the materials used for decor and furnishings.

Garry Ruliffson, an energy solutions specialist from Omaha Public Power District, says tightening up the structure by creating less air leakage is primary. While air-sealing a home isn’t expensive, it’s somewhat labor intensive. Classes through the utility offer homeowners knowledge.

“We’ll provide the information; you have to go home and do something,” Ruliffson says. Sealing duct work is another important step, but often requires professional expertise.

Switching to more efficient lighting and appliances is another simple change. ENERGY STAR-labeled products come in more than 30 categories. They use less energy, save money, and help protect the environment.

Compact florescent light bulbs bear the ENERGY STAR label. New technology has transformed this product category, says Ruliffson. These bulbs consume 25 watts but provide the same visual light as a 100-watt bulb. Technology has improved the light quality and increased its lifespan to 10 times that of incandescent bulbs.

There is even a ban-the-bulb movement gaining momentum throughout the world. There is talk that incandescents could be phased out completely in the United States within the next decade.

Switching to more efficient lighting and appliances is another simple change.

Materials used in new construction or remodeling, decorating, and furnishings should also be scrutinized, says Jen Carlson, owner of Straw Sticks & Bricks.

People need to consider the life cycle of the product, the ingredients used to make it, the way it was made, how it will impact indoor air quality, and how the answers to all of these affect the environment and use resources.

The showrooms in Lincoln and Kansas City feature environmentally friendly adhesives and compounds, rapidly renewable or sustainable floorings, countertops, window coverings and other building materials, and non-toxic paints and varnishes.

Shifting beliefs and buying habits take a hands-on experience, she says.

“Most people think green will be more expensive,” she says. “They often are not comparing apples to apples. Usually they are comparing something like bamboo flooring to the least expensive covering they have seen.”

She says green products often are a better quality product. The removal of toxic chemicals costs more than leaving them in. But low volatile organic chemicals (VOCs) in paints, varnishes, carpets, etc., also contribute to better air quality, which leads to healthier people.

Many green products also have longer life spans, require less maintenance, and were either made using less energy or promote energy efficiency. Some offer all of the above and balance the bottom line, says Carlson.

Homes utilizing energy-efficient products and healthier materials will have higher values, says Brown. “Homes with extra insulation, extra-good windows...those that use less energy will have a higher value and significantly higher resale value than homes without these features,” says Brown.

Consumers need to become better educated. Relying on their builders and code may only provide the minimum level of green alternatives. People are also changing the way they figure payback when choosing products and materials, Ruliffson says.

“Energy is getting on everybody’s radar because of the cost factor,” says Ruliffson. “There’s going to be a real transition. Over the next 20 years we are going to see a lot of changes in how people buy a home based on energy.

“They are going to have to spend some time doing their research...to help them make good purchases and good decisions now.”

For information on Omaha Public Power District classes, visit www.oppd.com.