New building codes target energy efficiency

Home builders are already looking toward 2016 codes and regulations across the U.S., especially in terms of energy efficiency. 

According to the Stamford Advocate, many builders expect the most significant changes will involve insulation and other aspects of energy efficiency. Many states are attempting to change energy efficiency rules, under the guidance of The American Institute of Architects (AIA) and other groups.

"Building technology advances, I think, in ways that consumers cannot fathom," said Diane Harp Jones, AIA Connecticut's CEO. "Literally every day there is better, improved science in the way we make buildings. Architects can design to anything — but it's much more protective … if building and fire safety codes are not in conflict."

Other places such as Washington D.C., California and Maryland have begun their own changes as well, installing mandated sprinklers in new homes with energy efficiency in mind, costing more money, but giving many buyers a new peace of mind in the safety of their home.

Many builders interested in this change are motivated by saving money over the life of the structure as well, limiting wasted energy or damage that may occur during extreme events. 

A recent study conducted by the Florida Solar Energy Center found that the changes made throughout buildings in the state created 13 percent overall savings. Even if your building has already been constructed, there are changes that can be made to ensure it is more efficient. 

Consider scheduling an energy efficiency inspection with Alban Inspections today. Visit our website to learn more. 

3 benefits of a home inspection [Video]

A home inspection is a crucial piece of the purchasing process. Without a thorough home inspection, new owners may be left with a host of issues that could have been addressed or prevented before move-in day.

According to The American Society of Home Inspectors there are three key benefits for having a home inspection. An inspection can be justification for a purchase price. With all underlying issues out in the open, price cuts can be made.

Trust is also a big factor as a certified proof of home safety or report of minimal issues can create a better deal between buyers and sellers.

 With a full home inspection disclosure, risk can be minimized for all parties involved.

Contact an Alban inspector today to learn more.

Alban Inspections water testing [Video]

The drinking water your family consumes daily is a large part of your lives, and should be treated as such. Whether your drinking water is from the kitchen sink or a private well in the backyard, it’s imperative to ensure it’s always safe for consumption.

Drinking contaminated or dirty water can have serious health effects.

Alban inspectors are qualified to collect water in all local states, and all associated laboratories are nationally accredited. 

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency recommends that property owners conduct annual water testing for bacteria, as well as nitrite and nitrate chemical contamination. Every three years water should also be tested for sulfate, chloride, iron, manganese and lead, in addition to the overall corrosion index.

Contact an Alban inspector to learn more.

Newer buildings struggle to remain energy efficient

Energy efficiency is an important part of maintaining a sustainable amount of natural resources as well as reducing the overall carbon footprint given off by individuals.

Recent research conducted by Honeywell and KRC Research found that although energy is important to builders that are creating new establishments, several other needs are taking precedent too. The study looked at 500 buildings across the U.S. and found that they only scored 35 out of 100 in terms of energy efficiency.

The report found that the most important factor for builders remains safety, with 51 percent indicating it was "the primary gauge of a smart building," but 27 percent also said that green assets can be an indicator of this type of safety. 82 percent agree that the benefits of energy efficiency are vital, but only 53 percent of buildings tested were seen as "technologically advanced" enough to make a real difference.

Some buildings are pledging to make a change though, with the support of The American Institute of Architects (AIA). This group challenges buildings to make a change, tracking the annual percentage of professionals who aim to reduce predicted energy usage (pEUI) by 60 percent. Although this number has increased somewhat, the last plans submitted to the AIA averaged only 34 percent.

By investing in an energy efficiency audit during building or right after, real changes can be made that will impact the efficiency for years to come. Making energy changes, as stated above, can also decrease annual and monthly bills, decreasing costs for companies with ease.

To learn more about energy efficiency or to schedule an audit, visit our website.

Heat your home safely this season

How do you heat your home? When was the last time you checked your heating system? Have you ever had it inspected by a professional? If you're unsure of the answer to any of these questions, or worse, your answers seem dated, you may have an issue on your hands.

Heating equipment is the leading cause of home fire deaths, with more than half reported during December, January and February. Heating in the winter is necessary to keeping your family warm and safe from the outside elements.

Keep the following tips in mind for a safe, warm winter season.

  • If the home uses a fossil fuel furnace that is more than 10 years old, it needs to be inspected right away and serviced by a qualified heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) contractor. 
  • Electric furnaces should be checked while on the emergency heat cycle in order to ensure everything is in proper working order. 
  • Furnace filters should be changed on a regular basis, depending on the type of filter being used and the amount of dust that may collect on it. Generally, this is done once every three to four months.

For optimal safety during the cold months:

  1. Be sure your chimney, water heater and other heating equipment are inspected regularly.
  2. Make sure the fireplace has a sturdy screen to keep sparks from flying out and lighting any objects on fire.
  3. Never heat your home using the oven, as this can cause an explosion if left unattended or on for too long.

For a full home inspection or an inspection of your heating system and overall energy efficiency, schedule a consultation with Alban Inspections. Visit our website to learn more.

Lead paint testing and your home [Video]

Lead can be found in every part of the environment including the air, soil, water and even inside of homes. Although it does have some valuable uses, lead can be toxic to humans and animals, causing severe health effects if left undetected. 

 Maryland law requires all multi-family and single family homes built before 1978 to be tested for lead paint. In addition, federal law requires the disclosure of lead-based paint in all sold or leased properties. 

 Accredited Alban inspectors can provide lead risk assessments, lead-free certification, visual compliance inspections, lead dust pre-occupancy testing and clearing house information.

If you would like to learn more about the risks of lead paint or the status of your home, contact us today.

What is the current state of energy efficiency?

According to Reuters, renewable energy supplies in eight major economies are projected to double by 2030 due to new national climate and energy plans. 

This projection, compiled by the World Resources Institute (WRI) found that the clean energy supply created by eight of the world's 10 largest greenhouse emitters — Brazil, China, the European Union, India, Indonesia, Japan, Mexico and the United States — will jump to 20,000 terawatt hours.

This number is equivalent to India's current energy demand.

"These new renewable energy targets send strong signals to energy markets and investment circles," said Jennifer Morgan, Global Director, Climate Program, WRI. "Combined with the Paris climate agreement, it's clear that renewable energy is poised to surge forward in the next 15 years bringing clean and affordable power to millions of people worldwide."

In addition to global changes, advancements are also being made in the U.S. on other fronts. Recent data from the Pew Research Center has found that American homes are about 31 percent more energy efficient (as measured in energy usage per square foot) than 1970. 

Despite this though, homes have also grown in size, about 28 square feet on average, which does not cancel out the energy efficient change, but rather, balances the two. All these energy efficient gains effectively allow Americans to own bigger homes and have more appliances running without causing a huge surge in energy usage.

One of the biggest notable changes found during this study is the amount of heat that homes use, now about 21 percent less for newer homes as compared to their older counterparts. 

If you're interested in learning more about the energy efficiency of your home, schedule a consultation with Alban Inspections today or visit our website. 

Energy efficiency continues to improve

According to a study conducted by the Global Commission on the Economy and Climate, stricter energy efficiency standards on cars, fridges and other items are cutting annual greenhouse emissions across the world.

These greenhouse gases are projected to decrease by about a tenth of their current rate by 2030, spurring economic growth simultaneously. The report estimates that the new investments in energy efficiency could boost economic output by $18 billion by 2035. Simple measures such as changing light bulbs, insulating rooms and installing tracking thermostats can make a vast difference. 

"Energy efficiency really contributes economically and it is also important in terms of climate change," said study leader Russell Bishop. 

The commission was attended and lead by a range of politicians, business leaders and climate experts from around the globe, highlighting the crucial part each plays to stop global warming and enhance climate sustainability. 

By taking voluntary energy efficiency measures seriously, annual greenhouse gas emissions could be cut by the equivalent of 4.5 to 6.9 billion tons of carbon dioxide.

The United Nations has found that collectively, government plans are too weak as they are now to limit the target of two degrees Celsius over pre-industrial times. By eliminating this, the extinction of animals and plants, as well as the rising of sea levels and threat of drought can be prevented. 

To start saving energy and conserving climate in your hometown, consider scheduling an energy audit with Alban Inspections. An audit can help determine what may be necessary to change in your home and what is sustainable in terms of overall carbon footprint reduction. 

Visit our website to learn more.

What happens during an Alban home energy audit? [Video]

Investing in a home energy audit is one of the best ways homeowners can save money and reduce their carbon footprint.

 Reducing home energy consumption doesn’t sacrifice comfort, but rather, it enables homeowners to better understand lighting, heating and insulation. 

By examining home heating and cooling systems, scanning for leaks and un-insulated areas using an infrared camera, and checking building tightness, energy losses can be eliminated easily. 

 The results of an Alban audit are compiled, prioritizing improvements that should be made right away. Whether the changes are minor or major, optimizing energy efficiency can make a difference.

Schedule your own energy audit today to learn more.