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Find creative cooling solutions

Nov 25, 2010
To control heat intake, and effectively, energy-consumption, consider covering windows that receive a lot of sun with semi-opaque polycarbonate...

Build walls with dirt

Nov 25, 2010
When in construction mode, consider using pneumatically impacted stabilized earth (PISE), which is a nearly perfect building material. The...

Alternate heating systems

Nov 25, 2010
There are alternatives to forced-air heating systems, particularly in mild climates such as California. Consider a grid-tied photovoltaic approach,...

Lighten your wash loads

Nov 25, 2010
Wash only full loads of dishes and clothes or lower the water settings for smaller loads. This saves water and energy. Also, you can replace your...

Build with straw bales

Nov 25, 2010
In places where heat-minimization is key, walls built with straw-bale insulation make a lot of sense. Not only is the product 100% natural, but...

Live in your house for your entire life

Nov 25, 2010
When designing your home, think really really hard about how long you imagine you'll live there. And if you plan to live there for ages, design it...

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Supplant your lawn

Nov 25, 2010
Though ornamental lawns can be lovely, they often require serious maintenance and require lakes of water to stay verdant. Redesigning your front...

Plant a black walnut tree now for your children's education

Nov 25, 2010
A well-tended black walnut tree with a good straight trunk can sell at auction for $60,000. Two will sell for $120,000. Get the message: Start...

Kitchen baking soda is the best fungicide on earth

Nov 25, 2010
Baking soda, called bicarbonate, is non-toxic for the home and garden.  A teaspoon added to two cups of warm water and used as a spray will keep...