The term green building, which is otherwise known as sustainable design, is a construction practice that focuses on increasing the overall efficiency of the building itself. Goals include optimizing the way the building uses water, energy and internal materials while reducing the building’s impact on the local environment and human health. Such goals are planned […]
USI Blog
What are blower door tests and why do they matter?
Whether you are a long-time owner of a property, a new owner or someone undergoing a remodel, there are many great reasons by businesses should consider a blower door test. They can help you check the efficiency of your current system and to detect energy-losing leaks in your home or business’s structure. Whether you want […]
How do blower door tests and energy audits work for commercial buildings?
For many businesses, the amount of overhead cost can be the reason that you succeed or fail. Energy costs are a large part of this overhead, particularly if you own large commercial buildings. An inefficient building is not only expensive to heat, light and cool, but it is also worth less when it is resold […]
How do I conduct an energy audit on my home?
In nearly every home, there are some energy deficiencies. Catching these deficiencies through an energy audit can be a smart way to identify any leaks, insulation problems, or issues that are contributing to wasted energy in the home. This simple energy audit can go a long way in reducing your carbon footprint and cutting down […]
4 Ideas for a More Energy Efficient Home Environment
Did you know that you can adopt some new ideas and habits that not only reduce your impact on the environment but also create a healthier situation for your home? Learning to live a green life isn’t as challenging as some people assume. Below are five ideas you can use to make your home healthier […]
4 Ways To Save Energy Outside
While many homeowners care about saving money on energy bills and reducing their utility costs inside of their homes, not enough people focus on changes they can make outside. By following a few simple changes, you can make a significant improvement on reducing your energy bill outside of your home. Clear Your AC If you […]
ACHnat and Air Flow: The Secret to Saving Money in a New Home
Architects often consider the aesthetic flow of a home when they design, but the structure and ACHnat also affect the flow of heat and air. Smart choices with building envelope design can lead to lower energy bills, a more comfortable home and improved air quality. The design of a comfortable home has long depended on […]
What Does the Term Carbon Footprint Mean?
A carbon footprint refers to the amount of carbon dioxide produced by your day-to-day activities and the items you use. The most common greenhouse gas in the world is carbon dioxide. Produced by cars, manufacturing and other activities, carbon dioxide contributes to global warming. How Is a Carbon Footprint Created? Each person has a carbon […]
3 tips to more energy efficient outdoor living
With the warm weather building, homeowners are excited to begin entertaining guests outdoors. Energy efficiency is always crucial during the winter, but individuals should also remember to keep their homes well-maintained during the summer. By keeping some of these tips in mind, it can be easy to enjoy energy efficiency inside and outside the home […]
How to save energy during warm summer nights
A warm night during the summer calls to mind many images, and one of them involves sitting inside with the air conditioner running. As relaxing as that might sound, doing so also means that you’re wasting energy. Instead of hurting the environment, take this season of beautiful natural surroundings as a time to improve the […]