ERV vs HRV: Which is Better for Net-Zero Energy Homes?
When building a net-zero energy home, there are so many factors to take into consideration that it can be confusing to know where to start. Each detail has to be meticulously planned to ensure your home is as energy efficient as possible. This process can be highly stressful, but the savings in the long run, are worth it.
One decision that homebuilders have to make is choosing ERV vs HRV systems to provide your home with fresh, filtered air. They are balanced ventilation systems that, though more expensive to install than other mechanical ventilation systems, save homeowners in Arizona a lot on operating costs, which is why they are commonly used in net-zero homes. Both are highly energy efficient, but what are the differences? Read more
There are many ways most Americans incorporate energy efficiency into their daily lives. For lots of us, turning off the faucet and separating our recyclables has become second nature. However, some take it even further, incorporating net-zero building technologies into their home design so that their homes’ annual energy consumption is completely offset by their renewable energy systems.
Part of establishing a more energy-efficient household is understanding what goes into your energy use and what it costs. You can analyze your electricity bill, but it may not be detailed enough for you to make effective changes to reduce your energy costs. You could take a peek at the energy meter that sends information to your power company, but these meters are designed to be read by utility workers and experts, not homeowners, so they are often inconveniently placed and only give basic information.
The building envelope is everything between the inside of your home and the world outside. It includes doors and windows, insulation and exterior walls, the foundation, and the roof. 
A Net-Zero Energy home is a building designed or retrofitted to be as efficient as possible so that it consumes no more energy than it produces. This allows for huge reductions in gas and electric bills, and makes your home much more valuable, but it can be difficult to know where to start. Whether you are starting from scratch or redesigning an existing house in search of a truly green home, begin by having a 
Many people are starting to take back their lives and the life of this planet through greener lifestyles. Through modern technology, there are ways we can reverse our own harmful effects on the earth and live happier and more earth-friendly lives. Learn from g
Designing a new home is always an exciting and challenging experience. Starting your home design and construction from scratch and being a part of every detail and step will make your new home that much more unique and fit to you. If you are considering going for gold and taking on the challenge of designing a Net-Zero energy home in Scottsdale, the fruits of your labor will definitely be worth the hard work. Here is a cheat sheet to help you get started on designing your 
When you’re a homeowner, you are responsible for keeping all of the systems in the house in tip top shape for the sake of your family’s health as well as protecting your investment. Everything from maintenance to renovations, equipment replacement and more are necessary to keep a house’s structure strong. With 
Your house can be the most beautiful one on the block, but that doesn’t mean you have to pass up remodeling opportunities, especially when your home’s efficiency is the main focus. There are several things that can be done to a home during a remodel that will improve the energy efficiency of the entire space. 
Essentially, when you remodel a home to be considered “high performance,” you are increasing the energy efficiency of the entire space. This kind of improvement project can better the look of your home, help you save on energy and increase the value of your property. With professionals who remodel 
