In addition to getting out and enjoying some sunny January weather, I did a little reading this weekend. The American Council for an Energy Efficient Economy (ACEEE) just released a new report, The Long-Term Energy Efficiency Potential: What the Evidence Suggests,…
Last Saturday, I was doing some stuff around the house, and my wife had the radio tuned into one of those home repair talk shows. I don't listen to those shows much because they usually say something that drives me…
This time of year, I see a lot of ads for various types of electric space heaters. They all promise that you'll save money by using them rather than whatever other type of heat you have in your home. Some…
Energy Vanguard, a small company with a big presence, is looking for someone to help with our HVAC design work. The position will be for an intern or entry-level employee who is interested in high performance buildings, energy efficiency, and…
I'm embarrassed to admit it, but yes, that photo is the gas furnace and water heater in my condo. It's an 80 AFUE (80% efficient) furnace and natural draft water heater. Notice also that they're common vented, which can be…
Fire is just so dang interesting! Its discovery by our early ancestors changed the lives of humans forever. Who doesn't love a good fire?! When I was about 8 years old, I got so fascinated with it that Bubba, my…
We've made a few videos here at Energy Vanguard and will be adding a lot more to our TheEnergyVanguard YouTube channel. Videos are great for learning about building science and home energy audits, so here are some of my favorite…
BOO! Not scared? OK, well let me take another hack...uh...I mean, tack. Here are 8 things related to energy, HVAC, or building science that should scare the heck out of you...or at least irritate you once you understand them. Bonus…
I love the look and idea of this new thermostat called the Nest and want to install one as soon as I can. It's gorgeous. It's simple. And it's smart. I love the look and idea of this new thermostat…
Recently I came across a LEED certified house that had cardboard return ducts. They were all inside the building envelope, but it seemed clear to me that they could lead to problems. Even if the home builder or HVAC contractor…