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The Virginia Energy Savers Handbook

For public reference, we have acquired and transferred all of the materials from the 3rd edition of the handbook published by the Va Dep't of Mines, Minerals & Energy in 2005. The files are in PDF format and all contents therein are copyrighted to that agency.

Upon clicking any of the links below, a new browser window will open with the PDF file for that chapter in it. The subtitles are listed below each link to give you a navigational guide for selecting the appropriate chapter.

Table of Contents


Introduction Why and How to Become a Smart Energy Consumer

Chapter 1: Assessing Your Home's Energy Fitness
  • Your House as a System
  • How Does Your Home Rate?
  • Calculating Your Home Energy Rating
  • Inspecting for Flaws
  • Obtaining a Professional Energy Audit
  • Energy Tips and Recommendations
  • Know Your BTUs

Chapter 2: Controlling Air Leakage

  • Before You Begin: Health & Safety
  • Air Sealing Materials
  • Attic Work
  • Basement Work
  • The Living Space
  • Radon
  • Energy Tips & Recommendations

Chapter 3: Insulation Materials Selection & Installation

  • R-value—The Power of Insulation
  • Five Categories of Insulation
  • Protecting Your Insulation from Moisture
  • Insulation Techniques & Applications
  • Energy Tips & Recommendations

Chapter 4: Windows & Doors

  • Types of Windows
  • Energy Efficient Windows
  • Window Replacement
  • Doors
  • Energy Tips & Recommendations

Chapter 5: Heating & Cooling Systems

  • 4 Ways to Improve Your Heating & Cooling System's Efficiency
  • Understanding Heating & Cooling Systems
  • Cooling Systems
  • How to Make Your Systems More Efficient
  • Upgrading to High Efficiency Heating & Cooling Equipment
  • Operating Your System for Maximum Efficiency
  • Wood Burning Appliances
  • Unvented Heating Systems
  • Energy Tips & Recommendations

Chapter 6: Water Heating

  • Types of Residential Water Heaters
  • Energy Efficient Water Heating
  • Buying a New Water Heater
  • Energy Tips & Recommendations

Chapter 7: Appliances

  • Energy Use for Appliances
  • Shopping for New Appliances
  • Choosing and Using Appliances
  • Energy Tips & Recommendations

Chapter 8: Energy Use for Lighting

  • How Light Output, Energy & Efficiency Are Measured
  • The Spectrum of Light
  • Energy-Efficient Lighting Options
  • Lighting Strategies for Your Home
  • Energy Tips & Recommendations

Chapter 9: Water Conservation

  • Drought
  • Water-Saving Practices
  • Low-Flow Fixtures & Appliances
  • Fixing Water Leaks
  • Stormwater Management
  • Water-Saving Tips & Recommendations

Chapter 10: Energy-Efficient New Construction

  • High Levels of Insulation
  • High Performance Windows w/ Proper Solar Control
  • Low Air Leakage Rate
  • Fresh Air Ventilation for Indoor Air Quality Control
  • High Performance Mechanical Systems
  • Advantageous Use of Available Solar Energy
  • Other Features for Energy Efficiency & Comfort
  • Energy-Efficient Landscaping
  • Green Building Technology
  • Energy Tips & Recommendations

Chapter 11: Reducing Your Transportation Energy Use

  • Driving Tips
  • Automobile Maintenance
  • Buying a New Vehicle
  • Alternative Transportation
  • Alternative Fuels & Vehicles
  • Energy Tips & Recommendations

Chapter 12: Renewable Energy & Alternate Energy Sources

  • What Are Renewable & Alternative Energy?
  • Types of Renewable & Alternative Energy
  • Residential Renewable & Alternative Energy Systems
  • Virginia Programs that Promote Renewable Energy
  • Energy Tips & Recommendations

Chapter 13: Virginia Energy Choice

  • What Is Restructuring?
  • Restructuring & Energy Efficiency
  • Virginia Energy Choice
  • Energy Tips & Recommendations

Chapter 14: Your Home & the Environment

  • Saving Energy Is Good for the Environment
  • Global Warming
  • Houses & the Environment
  • Recycling Strategies for Your Home
  • Energy & Environmental Education Keys
  • Energy Tips & Recommendations

Appendix: Where to Go for More Information

  • General Information
  • Building Envelope
  • Appliances
  • Wood Heat
  • Alternative Energy
  • Water Conservation
  • Energy Choice
  • Tree Planting & Preservation

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