When addressing indoor air quality, let’s not leave out existing homes and buildings. The same principles that make new zero energy buildings more healthy can also be applied to existing homes, whether during minor upgrades or major renovations. The return is in improved health and comfort. This is the final installment of our three-part series on indoor air quality and health.

As described in Part One, indoor air can be unhealthy. When you invest in zero energy, you’ll also get something even more important than money in return. Zero energy buildings are also healthier. Here in Part Two of this three-part series, you can read about all the components of zero energy buildings that make this invaluable benefit possible.

In Part One of this two-part series we show the real financial returns for zero energy homeowners. — “A penny saved is a penny earned,” according to Benjamin Franklin. Let’s start thinking about energy improvements as investments that bring a financial return. Here are four ways to evaluate the financial performance of zero energy homes. They all demonstrate that zero energy homeowners benefit financially, making zero a wise investment.

In Part One of a three-part series we look into health risks and the cost to society rising from conventional construction approaches. Most people are unaware of the health risks that permeate their homes. Ironically, all homes present dangers, but it is a deeper understanding of building science and greater attention to detail that make energy-efficient zero homes healthier than conventional ones. Part One of a three-part series lays out the risks and costs.

The amount of Renewable Energy Tax Credit for residential and commercial buildings will soon begin a gradual decline. If you’re thinking about solar, NOW is the time to act!

The move away from fossil fuels requires that buildings and vehicles be powered by electricity from renewable sources, such as wind, solar, etc. All-electric homes in cold climates present a challenge for comfort and cost, but those barriers have fallen to recent developments in design and technology - making all-electric homes desirable even in cold climates.

Building codes are the nerdy superheroes that will help us stop the worst impacts of climate change. Local and state governments across the U.S. are beginning to recognize that every new building will use energy for decades and must be as efficient as possible.

Swimming pools are great fun, but they have high running costs and a high carbon footprint. David Green cut both. Now his pool running cost is zero and so is its carbon footprint.

No matter where you live, there is financial assistance to help you improve the energy efficiency of your home and save money. These states are leading the pack, but even if you live elsewhere, you can still find technical and financial help.

For most people, developing a vacation rental would be about profit. For these two Washington state couples, it was about much more. Oh, and the profit is there too.

A new study shows that the cost of zero energy homes is very close to that of homes built to code. Best of all, costs are dropping and the trend is expected to continue.

The only reason that most people feel that their new home is okay is that their old home was even worse.