Make Walking and Biking Part of Your Zero Energy Lifestyle

Location is one of the first decisions made about a new home purchase, and it is one of the most consequential. While it may not occur to you that location affects energy efficiency… it does!

Passive House Busts High Cost Myth

The first certified Passive House in Scranton, Pennsylvania, offers more than super energy efficiency. It demonstrates that high-performance homes can be built for the same price as code-built homes.

Is Aerobarrier the Future of Air Sealing?

Imagine a world where a builder can set a precise level of building air tightness, pay one contractor to deliver it, and reach the same performance standard on every home. That world is here... today.

The Zero Net Energy Primer: A Guide to the Future of Home Design

Designers and builders may need to make adjustments in their homes when California implements its upcoming zero energy building code for homes. Those adjustments are spelled out and illustrated in this new booklet. It’s a great guide for zero energy home design no matter where you live.

Valuation Techniques for High Performance Buildings

Property sellers and buyers tend to agree that energy efficient buildings are worth more. Getting that value in the market has been another story. Green appraisal consultant, James Finlay, offers a primer for property owners of high-performance real estate to prepare for them for accurate appraisals.

Proper Integration of Heat Recovery Ventilators with Residential Air Handlers

Since most American homes already have a forced-air heating and cooling system, it’s almost irresistible to use the same ductwork for fresh air ventilation. But beware the pitfalls! Avoid performance-killing mistakes by following these essential guidelines. This is the second installment of a two-part series.

Don’t Repair, Replace! Bring Zero Energy Homes to Those Who Need them Most

At some point, homes can become too broken to fix. Instead of pumping public funds into lost causes, combine existing funding sources to provide new homes that are safe, healthy and dignified for a longer-term, smarter solution.

Solving Energy Poverty: Energy Efficient Homes for Those Who Need Them Most

Efforts to address energy poverty in low-income families by helping to reduce their energy burden have been inadequate. It’s time to make these efforts more comprehensive and more effective.

Use Your Consumer Power to Lift the Zero Energy Homes Market

Builders say they will build what people want. Real estate professionals say they help people find the house that’s right for them. Overwhelmingly, home buyers say they want high-efficiency, healthy homes. So why is the market share of these homes so low? The obvious disconnect between the demand and the supply can only be corrected if consumers use their influence to move the market. Here’s how...

Wall Sensor Measures Moisture in a Double-stud Wall

Thick walls hold lots of insulation, but there’s a nagging question about condensation in these cavities. I actually measured the moisture in a 10-inch, double-stud wall in my home in Central Oregon. Here’s what I found.