Projects for Greater Energy Savings
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Check out multiple examples of projects for greater energy savings at this multi-family intentional community.
Reap what you sow - Once you have implemented projects that improve energy efficiency, set aside funds saved as a budget towards investing in future, larger cost improvements.
Heat Rises – so for winter energy savings insulate overhead to keep warmth inside. Ideally you want insulation separating heated and unheated areas of your home – for instance on or under the floor of an unheated attic. If this is unfeasible, insulating underneath the roof might be the next best place. Conversely, in summer, letting heat escape through venting windows from the top or a whole house fan can keep you cool without air conditioning.
| See how you can take advantage of this principle to warm your house during the cold winter using your ceiling fan in the quick and easy section. |  |
From Below If you have a crawl space or basement under your home, insulating from below might be your next priority.
Window Improvements - The list below contains a series of steps one can take, depending on budget, local zoning/historic regulations and pre-existing conditions.
Single-pane glass:
- Add storm windows on the outside
- Add insulating shades on the inside
- Add interior storms – either in addition to outside storms or to preserve historic exterior
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- Replace single pane windows with Low-E double or triple pane insulated (frame) windows
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- New construction and additions can be designed to maximize natural lighting, as in the Mendes Studio.
Improve heating efficiency – Home improvement stores sell all kinds of do-it-yourself insulation supplies.
- Plug energy leaks (click to download EPA brochure) in ducts, outlets, around doors and windows. Place the back of your hand near drafts to isolate the source.
- Blow more insulation into an unfinished attic is a very effective and low cost way to lower heating and cooling energy use.
- Use Humidifiers to increase perception of warmth. 50% humidity is desirable and helps reduce air borne colds and infections.
- Upgrade furnace to boost efficiency.
- Improve boiler efficiency by adding a flue damper (keeps warmed air inside when unit shuts off)
- Explore solar heating for water (heating water can account for 14-25% of home energy use) You can consider local examples and download an Introduction to Solar Hot Water Heating Systems through the KY Solar Partnership website.
- Size heating and cooling units for optimal efficiency per your space/climate, and consider heating and cooling by zone if you have areas used part time.
- Consider geo-thermal heating and cooling for new construction or significant renovations
| To see how Central Christian Church on Short St. is incorporating a new geothermal system into their new construction projects, click this image... |  |
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- Consider solar design for new construction and additions Such designs can save as much as 75% in energy costs and reduce construction costs when smaller heating/cooling units are needed. The Kentucky Solar Partnership offers examples, references and other resources. This Raven Run residence uses active and passive solar systems.
Conserve Water – Energy expenses comprise x% of the cost of treated water. By minimizing treated water used and using rainwater where feasible, one consumes less energy. Look for EPA’s new Watersense designation (similar to Energy Star) for products that help reduce water use.
- Low flow shower heads save water.
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- Front-load washers generally use less water per load than top loading washers
Strategic landscaping See Bluegrass PRIDE Tips for a Green Lawn
- Migrate toward plantings that need less water (local natives and “xeric” plants).
- Shade southern side of house with deciduous trees for summer cooling and winter warmth. Water plants only as needed and at low evaporation times of day.
- Gray water (post bathing or dishes) can be recycled to water plants (and soap repels some bugs).
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