So you want a warm house, huh? It’s only natural. But who wants to be
burning up all those non-renewables to do it? Well, now you don't have to. Check out these HVAC (Heating, Ventilating and Air Conditioning) green
climate control options:
· Pellet Stoves: You wouldn't think so, but pellet stoves burn more efficiently than standard wood burners. They use recycled biofuels like wheat hulls or sawdust, are easy additions to a home, and can even be set to ignite at a specific time, saving that cold trek to start a fire half-asleep.
· Geothermal Heat Pumps: These are clever inventions that use the ground (earth's largest solar collector) to collect heat in winter and coolness from the ground in summer. Geothermal heat pumps are probably better suited for the southern half of the US, since deep frost and snow would inhibit their effectiveness in northern areas near Canada.
· Programmable Thermostats: Never underestimate the savings of zoning the heat distribution in your home. Use an Energy Star-rated thermostat to increase those savings even more.
Caulk: It’s often overlooked, but heat escaping from the gaps in your structure is costing you a mint. For the ultimate in green strategy, caulk the poorly insulated areas of your doors and windows. Always make sure you're using low-VOC and green certified products.