Virginia Energy Savers Handbook
For public reference, we have acquired and transferred all of the materials from the third 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.
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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