Leed on Hilton Head Island- Green Building Contractor - Green Remodeling - LEED for Homes

Seal heating and cooling ductwork. Duct leakage can be substantial--as much as 20% to 30%. Use water based mastic only.

Buy EPA Energy Star labeled energy-efficient equipment. When buying or replacing office equipment, compare energy requirements of various models.

Repaint building exterior with light colors. More sunlight will be reflected away from the building, thus lowering air-conditioning expenses. This is especially true for your roof.

Replace old appliances with more efficient models. Replacing an old dishwasher, refrigerator, washing machine, or furnace -- with a new, energy-efficient model can really save energy and money. Look for the Energy Star label.

Home Energy Audit. A home energy audit can identify ways to save up to hundreds of dollars a year on home heating and air conditioning.

Increase attic insulation to R-30. Insulation helps keep heat out in the summer and the cold out in the winter.

Insulate floors over unheated spaces to R-19. Insulation provides a thermal boundary, reducing energy use and increasing comfort.

Insulate and seal ducts in attics, crawl spaces, garages and other unheated areas.

Install Energy Star windows. These windows cost ~$0.50 /sq.ft. more than standard windows, save energy and increase comfort

Install a solar water heater. A solar water heater can provide 50% to 80% of your hot water needs.

Posted in: on Sunday, August 16, 2009 at at 3:29 PM