Living Green in San Antonio

I read a story in the newspaper about a homeowner who hired Novastar Energy to install solar panels for her home here in the San Antonio area. Now she is not only using the solar energy for her own home, she is also selling back solar energy.

Another green method of generating energy for homes is geothermal pumps, great for use in neighborhoods that have restrictive remodeling rules.

By installing green and environmentally friendly products, homeowners can realize true savings in energy costs. Most people can't afford to spend several thousand dollars for the solar array or geothermal pumps but there are less expensive ways to save money with green techniques, including passive building methods.

Some green features being built into homes include aluminum radiant barrier roof decking to keep the attic cooler, blown-in insulation to keep air from coming in and out of the home, low-flow water appliances, tankless water heaters, dual flush toilets, and double-paned windows. A lawn with areas covered in mulch and plants such as perennials helps keep water bills down.