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Is Wind Power an Option for Homeowners?
by Elle MacKenna
As oil prices continue to climb the focus on renewable energy is becoming more intense and, in many cases, more viable for homeowners. Wind energy is touted as a clean, readily available source but homeowners... published 6 months ago
How to Avoid Chemicals in Everday Household Products
by Elle MacKenna
Recent news headlines are drawing attention to the fact that many common household items contain dangerous chemicals. A national study on chemical exposure called Is It In Us? recently revealed that... published 6 months ago
Pellet Stoves: Wood, Corn & Bixby
by Elle MacKenna
Pellet stoves are an efficient alternative way to heat your home. They use inexpensive fuels made from biomass and don’t produce a lot of waste. With natural gas and oil prices on a steady upward trend, pellets stoves have become increasingly popular and worth a look. published 12 months ago
Costs and Benefits of Low Solar Gain Windows
by Elle MacKenna
The shading capacity of low solar gain windows makes them useful in southern climates that have long cooling seasons. While solar gain is just one of many factors that determine a window’s energy performance, understanding the principles, costs and proper applications of low solar gain windows can help you save energy and money...read more published 13 months ago
Healthy, Green Insulation Choices
by Elle MacKenna
(Photo: Yucel Tellici) With materials like soy and mushrooms, today’s green insulation choices can sound more like ingredients for stir fry rather than the components of an energy-efficient home.... published 11 months ago
Green Decking Options
by Elle MacKenna
Outdoor living spaces often become the favorite “rooms” of the house because they lend themselves to seasonal traditions and festivities. From enjoying summer BBQs to a quiet swing in the... published 11 months ago
How to Increase Air Flow Through Your Home
by Elle MacKenna
A well ventilated home can help keep indoor air healthy and moisture problems under control. In winter, the biggest concern is stopping unwanted air leaks that suck heat and energy out. It seems that the... published 8 months ago
Sell Solar Power Into Your Grid and Make Money
by Elle MacKenna
A recent New York Times article blasted solar energy systems as making “no economic sense.” The truth: solar photovoltaic systems aren’t cheap but they do payback. Sales of solar photovoltaic systems have been rising up to 50% annually in some states and it’s not just environmental do-gooders who are investing in the renewable energy. For many homeowners, solar energy is about dollars and cents. published 13 months ago
Green Tags: Buying Into Renewable Energy
by Elle MacKenna
If you are like me you want to live as green as possible but sometimes find it a little difficult. Depending on your living situation, it’s not always feasible to make the greenest choices. At home, electricity from renewable energy is the ideal but what if you are confined by an existing infrastructure that runs off of conventional fuel? Enter Green Tags...read more published 12 months ago
Earth Friendly Countertops
by Elle MacKenna
Countertops can add tremendous impact to your home’s interior décor. At the same time, the manufacturing can have a negative impact on the environment. These days the countertop industry is teeming with creative products that offer Earth-friendly options without sacrificing style. published 11 months ago










