Document Resources About Home Performance and Energy Efficiency

Glossary of Home Energy Terms

Home Energy Glossary.pdf
"This is a selected list of terms and acronyms that are often used to discuss residential energy efficiency and utility programs. A few green building, renewable energy and climate change terms are included as well. The terms are organized in three sections: Home Performance / Residential Energy Efficiency, Utility Connection, Climate Change". 

Client Case Study

Client Case Study (AHE).pdf
“According to Mr. Henry, “The work was very good. I am looking forward to feeling the difference and seeing a lower utility bill.” While our crew was packing up the truck to go home, several neighbors approached our foreman to inquire about the work we had done. They all discussed similar issues as Mr. Henry and expressed interest in making their homes more comfortable and efficient.” 

Rebate Information

PG&E Rebate Catalog.pdf
"Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) offers rebates on hundreds of energy efficient products and improvements for your home". This is a full catalog of all the various rebate programs PG&E offers for green home upgrades.

Federal Tax Credits Information.pdf
Summary of Federal tax credits for energy efficiency information.

Home Star.pdf
"This initiative establishes a $6 billion rebate program to encourage immediate investment in energy-efficient appliances, building mechanical systems and insulation, and whole-home energy efficiency retrofits. HOME STAR will rapidly create jobs in both construction and manufacturing, while saving families money on their energy bills." 

Insulation Information

Attic Insulation Fact Sheet (Dept of Energy).pdf
“Insulating ceilings is one of the most cost-effective energy efficiency measures. In addition to reducing heat loss in the winter and heat gains in the summer, ceiling insulation improves comfort by bringing ceiling temperatures closer to room temperatures and providing an even temperature distribution throughout the house.”

Crawlspace Insulation Fact Sheet (Dept of Energy).pdf
“A properly sealed, moisture-protected, and insulated crawlspace will increase comfort, save on energy costs, improve the durability of the home, and reduce entry of moisture, radon, and other potential irritants or pollutants into the home.”

Cellulose Insulation MSDS Sheet (Green Fiber).pdf
Data sheet detailing information on energy efficient cellulose insulation.

Dense Pack Cellulose Wall Insulation.pdf
"More than 85% of the content of cellulose insulation is processed from recycled paper fibers which have been chemically treated for flame resistance (these additives do not contain formaldehyde) making cellulose the “greenest” product you can use for insulation. Cellulose insulation provides outstanding resistance to heat flow for thermal applications, noise control for acoustical treatments, and fire control in wall applications."

Basement Insulation Facts.pdf
"A properly sealed, insulated, and moisture-protected basement will increase comfort, save on energy costs, improve durability, and reduce entry of moisture, soil gases, and other potential irritants or pollutants into the home."

Wall Insulation Facts.pdf
"Properly sealed, moisture-protected, and insulated walls help increase comfort, reduce noise, and save on energy costs. However, walls are the most complex component of the building envelope to insulate, air seal, and control moisture."

Energy Saving Tips

Recessed Lights Air Leakage (PHRC).pdf
“How much of an impact do recessed cans have on the total air leakage picture of a house? It is estimated that one conventional (IC or non-IC) fixture can be responsible for the loss of between $5 and $30 per year worth of energy and can dump about one-third of a gallon of water daily into a cold attic.”

Health and Safety

Mold Guide (EPA).pdf
“Molds are usually not a problem indoors, unless mold spores land on a wet or damp spot and begin growing. Molds have the potential to cause health problems. Molds produce allergens (substances that can cause allergic reactions), irritants, and in some cases, potentially toxic substances (mycotoxins).”