School energy efficiency remains important in Virginia and across the U.S.

According to The Daily Reporter, five Virginia schools have been recognized for their energy efficient environmental awareness. 

The U.S. Department of Education has concluded that the following schools have taken a strong initiative toward increasing energy efficiency in their districts:

  • Coles Elementary School in Manassas
  • Crozet Elementary School in Crozet
  • Bassett High School in Bassett
  • The Steward School in Richmond
  • The University of Virginia in Charlottesville

The University received a postsecondary sustainability award as well.

Schools spend more money on energy than any other expense except personnel ones. In addition, energy is one of the few aspects a school can reduce without having to sacrifice quality or education standards. 

There are numerous ways a school can become more energy efficient. Some of these include:

  • Changing the heating and cooling settings based on the actual weather can help keep classrooms comfortable and systems from using a lot of energy.
  • Teaching students the benefits of energy efficiency, which can lead to more efficient practices at home and other life aspects.
  • Lighting is one of the biggest energy consumers in schools. Turn off the lights if a classroom is not in use or install occupancy sensors that will do it for you. This may be a costly choice in the beginning but can lead to a lower electricity bill in the long run.
  • Stop the dripping water. Even small drips of water can waste money and energy. Keep faucet nozzles tight and working, and consider more energy efficient changes such as sensors or automatic sinks.
  • Using alternative forms of fuel to power buses and other modes of transportation.

If you would like to learn more about how your school can become energy efficient, schedule an energy audit with Alban Inspections today. Visit our website for additional information.

Energy efficiency spending is stable

According to Fierce Energy, North American electric and gas utilities spending were stable throughout 2013. 

Research from the Consortium for Energy Efficiency (CEE) indicates that although growth has been approved in efficiency program budgets, more can still be done.

American and Canadian gas and electric management programs reached $8 billion in 2013, as demand side management reached $7.2 billion. The allotted amount for these programs remained the same as 2012 figures despite new complex utility models, changes in state policies and fluctuating gas prices. 

In addition, over $1 billion was spent on demand response programs in 2013.

In light of this information, some experts believe more can be done to make the world more energy efficient. Simple changes to energy output, intake and the simultaneous pollution results can be made today. 

"Every American home, building, and appliance that we make more efficient saves money and cuts pollution, and moves our nation closer to a more sustainable and prosperous future," said Natural Resources Defense Council member Elizabeth Noll.

Some changes you can implement today include:

  • Eliminating waste: When throwing away work materials make sure they are disposed of in the proper manner. Always recycle when possible.
  • Keeping air vents clear: Air vents will be forced to work harder if they are not clear of couches, supplies and other blocks. Eliminating this waste can help reduce 25 percent of energy consumption.
  • Placing your work computer on power save mode: If you're not using your computer or other plugged in technology, place it in sleep mode so it uses less energy.
  • Unplugging devices not in use: If you're not using it, it probably doesn't have to be plugged in.

Schedule an energy audit with an Alban inspector today to discover changes you can make in your own home. Visit our website for more information.

What steps are Americans actually taking to enhance energy efficiency

With another Earth Day celebrated and passed, what has the U.S. actually changed in terms of its energy consumption and reduction process?

According to The Harris Poll, not much. The poll, taken by over 2,000 adults in February of 2014, revealed that few people spanning all demographic groups have taken steps toward energy-saving habits. 

Although most Americans do turn off their electrical appliances when not in use, even that number has dropped 4 percent from 79 percent in 2014 and a high of 82 percent in 2012 to 75 percent now. 

There has been a decrease in other areas of energy efficiency including:

  • 50 percent replacing incandescent bulbs with florescent bulbs down from 55 percent in 2014.
  • 47 percent of Americans look for an Energy Star label down from 50 percent in 2014. 
  • 49 percent use power strips for home electronics down from 50 percent in 2014.
  • 40 percent take shorter, colder showers down from 45 percent in 2014.

Reputation & Public Relations Practice Leader for Harris Poll, Carol M. Gstalder believes this is due to the decrease in energy prices. 

"As energy prices drop, so do consumers' commitment to energy-saving decisions from replacing light bulbs and water heaters to installing solar," she said.

In general, Americans across all demographics believe that solar and wind power are the best energy sources for the environment. Coal and nuclear are the worst. 

What can be done now? Start with your home.

The poll indicated only 11 percent of people have looked into conducting a home energy efficiency inspection. Alban Inspections can help with that.

Alban professionals are experienced in heating and insulation specialties as well as radon testing and energy consumption. Visit our website for more information or to schedule an inspection appointment.  

Where is the current most active home selling market located?

Do you know where the most active home selling market is this spring? According to the National Association of Realtors, San Jose, California had the fastest selling home market for the month of March. The median amount of time a home spent waiting to be sold was 22 days.

The spring and summer months are the beginning of the best time to sell a home, with median list prices up 11 percent higher than the previous year. 

The top 10 fastest home selling markets (based on the median number of days spent on the market) as of March are:

San Jose, California: 22 days 
San Francisco, California: 26 days
Santa Roa, California: 32 days
Denver, Colorado: 37 days
Seattle, Washington: 37 days
Boulder, Colorado: 38 days
Vallejo, California: 38 days
Los Angeles, California: 41 days
Minneapolis, Minnesota: 43 days
San Diego, California: 43 days

In addition to the fastest selling home markets, the National Association of Realtors has also released top 10 lists of the most and least popular home features. The top three of each include:

Features least likely to be built in a new home:

  • Carpeting as flooring on the main level
  • Outdoor kitchen or cooking area
  • Sunroom.

Features most likely to be built in a new home:

  • A walk-in closet in the master bedroom
  • Energy Star-rated windows 
  • Programmable thermostat.

Many new home features are being added for seamless energy loss reduction as well as better use of space provided. Maintaining an energy-efficient home can be easily done when all the efficient methods have already been implemented.

To find out where you can make changes in your home, schedule an energy efficiency home inspection with Alban inspectors. Visit our website for more information.

6 mold prevention tips

Mold can grow in a multitude of places in the home and during a range of weather conditions year-round. 

Some of the most common indoor molds include:

  • Alternaria
  • Apergillus
  • Cladosporium
  • Penicillium

Exposure to mold can cause both long- and short-term issues that can create an unsafe living environment and adversely affect health.

According to the U.S. Center for Disease Control and Prevention, common reactions to mold can include: nasal stuffiness, eye irritation and skin irritation. In addition mold has been proven to irritate already present symptoms of asthma, colds and other heath conditions.

Prevent illnesses and injuries caused by mold with the following six tips.

  1. Check humidity levels in your home. Use an air conditioner or humidifier to keep levels below 50 percent throughout the day.
  2. Clean up liquid spills and leaks as soon as they occur. Leaving water or other liquids lying around can create a host of problems including mold, infestation and permanent home damage.
  3. Clean and repair your roof, gutters and other outside home fixtures regularly to prevent water damage.
  4. Ensure your home is ventilated for proper air circulation. Stagnant air can increase the effects of mold.
  5. Make sure the ground surrounding your home slopes away from foundation and other outside areas. Water that enters the foundation or sits nearby can affect stability and create a breeding ground for mold. 
  6. Remove and replace carpets, upholstery or any other home furnishings affected by water damage. These can harbor mold out of sight in areas underneath the rug or beneath cushions.

Alban home inspectors are trained in mold testing and inspection areas. We offer a three-step approach to removing and preventing future mold issues. If you have a mold problem in your home, or suspect you do, visit our website for more information or call 301-662-6565.

4 spring energy efficient tips you need to know

Spring is finally here, and though it may not seem like it yet, warmer weather will be along soon as well. The new season brings blooming flowers, more animal sightings and sunny skies, but it also brings obviously hotter temperatures.

Keep the heat out of your home and away from your electricity bill with the following four tips:

  • Change the airflow direction on your ceiling fan: Using a ceiling fan in a room correctly can reduce the tangible heat. In the spring and summer months, switch the fan direction upward so cool air reaches toward the floor instead of warmer air.
  • Don't heat your home with appliances: On warmer days don't cook with an oven, instead use a microwave or grill outside. In addition, reduce hot water use with short showers. Use energy-efficient appliances that give off smaller amounts of heat as well.
  • Operate an efficient cooling system: Schedule routine maintenance for your home system in addition to using efficient air cooling devices. Avoid placing lamps or other devices near your thermostat as this can throw off the temperature reading and cause the cooling system to run longer than necessary. 
  • Use your windows to your advantage: Understand the climate you live in and how utilizing your windows can lower your bills and carbon footprint. Invest in natural ventilation systems as well as window treatments or covers that keep sunlight and other heat sources out.

Schedule an inspection with Alban today to obtain an energy efficient plan before the hot spring weather really hits. Alban inspectors are reliable, seasoned professionals in a range of areas including mold testing and radon testing. Learn more on our website.

U.S. Energy Department will train 75,000 workers in solar energy standards

According to The Washington Post, the U.S. Energy Department is set to train 75,000 workers to enter the solar energy workforce by 2020. 

This move reflects the U.S.'s stance toward the rising solar energy field and establishing permanent jobs for Americans.

The solar industry is creating jobs 10 times as fast as the rest of the economy with many in construction and installation.

Last year, the U.S. invested in enough solar power energy initiatives to power the equivalent of 1.4 million homes, said the Solar Energy Industries Association. The increasing amount of natural energy usage is an increasing benefit that can be coupled with its decreasing price. 

This change is also a step forward in President Obama's initiative to curb greenhouse gas emissions by almost 30 percent below the levels recorded in 2005. 

This will also create jobs for veterans across the U.S. with its accompanying Solar Ready Vets program. This program will transition military veterans into solar workforce employees with skills such as installation, marketing, inspection and other related field occupations. It will be launched at 10 military bases. 

As of now, businesses and agencies have been instructed to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions by 40 percent by 2025 as well as increase their share of renewable energy consumption to 30 percent. 

Renewable energy investment and consumption is becoming an ideal American initiative. Reducing our carbon footprint will not only help save the earth but can lower utility bills as well as create jobs. 

Schedule an inspection consultation with Alban inspectors today for an energy audit. Alban has a range of inspection categories including radon testing and mold issues. Check out our website for more information. 

Senate has passed Energy Efficiency Improvement Act

The U.S. Senate unanimously passed S 535, the Energy Efficiency Improvement Act of 2015. The Act is expected to produce about $4.6 billion in annual energy savings by 2030 with a small cost to taxpayers and zero government mandates, according to Fierce Energy.

The bill is expected to:

  • Allow the use of grid-enabled water heaters
  • Create new jobs 
  • Encourage energy-efficient practices in leased spaces
  • Reduce greenhouse gas emissions 
  • Reduce energy use from the already existing environment.

Its four main targets of change include:

  • A voluntary, market-driven approach to reducing energy consumption and keeping business owners content
  • Exemption of certain electric resistance water heaters used for responses from the Department of Energy
  • Federal agencies to coordinate with OMB, DOE and EPA to develop an implementation strategy for the maintenance, purchase and use of energy-efficient and energy-saving information technologies
  • Data disclosure to those that don't use energy-saving products.

If the Act is passed by the House of Representatives, it will require building leasers to disclose the amount of energy they use, when they're able to, if they don't have Energy Star labels.

The House of Representatives is set to reconvene in mid-April.

Senators Rob Portman and Jeanne Shaheen passed the bill after a year-long battle due to political alliance problems. 

The full bill can be read in its entirety here.

Alban Inspectors can help maximize your energy efficiency closer to home with their "C's": cost and comfort. Alban offers residential energy audits that both examine preexisting home conditions and challenge future home emissions. 

The findings of the audit are paired with how you can make changes that fit into what you want and what you can afford. Schedule a consultation with Alban today for home energy efficiency audit, radon testing or other inspection needs.

U.S. Department of Energy offers $20 million in search for more energy efficient motors and drives

The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) will give $20 million to companies who will develop more energy efficient motors and drives, according to Energy Efficient Markets. This offer is just one of many in the increasingly popular movement to reduce the $200 billion energy bill of the industrial sector. 

The DOE is interested in companies that will infuse high-power density and integrated power electronics in their manufacturing process. Industrial electronic motors are used in:

  • Compressors
  • Fans
  • Grinding mills
  • Metal rolling
  • Mine hoists
  • Pumps
  • Refineries.

As of now, the industrial sector uses 25 percent of U.S. electricity. This is expected to rise 30 percent by 2040. Manufacturing only counts for 12 percent of the U.S. GDP.

The DOE believes that the sector can reduce the high amount of energy costs by:

  • Replacing less efficient systems with fixed motor speeds and gearboxes 
  • Incorporating power electronic advancements into production. 

The initiative is known as the Next Generation Electric Machines: Megawatt Class Motors funding program and is open to those that include the following changes: 

  • Front end power processing units
  • High speed motors with the ability to be directly added to appropriate industrial loads
  • Medium voltage class for wide bandgap semi-conductor-based variable speed drives.

To learn more about the fund or to submit proposal information visit this site. For more information, contact: EERE-ExchangeSupport@hq.doe.gov or AMONGEM@go.doe.gov.

Energy efficiency isn't just for businesses or the industrial sector. If you would like to schedule an energy audit for your home, schedule a consultation with Alban Inspections. Our home inspection contractors are experts in the energy reduction and conservation field. A home energy audit can save money on your next household bill and reduce your carbon footprint.

Finding Trustworthy Home Inspectors

Just twenty 20 years ago, 75 percent of all purchased homes underwent a professional home inspection before sale. Today, the volume of homes inspected hovers around 95 percent according to Bill Loden, president of the American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI). Though the significance of home inspections in a turbulent housing economy is undeniable, a March 2014 report by the inspector general of the Federal Housing Finance Agency, the nation's top housing regulator, cautioned against falling victim to unscrupulous and unregulated practitioners. 

One of the reports strongest objections railed against the fact that the housing inspection industry is largely unregulated and even where regulations exist, the effectiveness of the statutes varies from state to state. In Maryland, inspectors are regulated by the Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation and are required to take a 72-hour pre-licensing class as well as have a license renewal every two years. But in California, neither licenses nor class hours are required. 

The inspector general report also outlined the perusal of 84 property inspection reports and revealed that more than half of them contained some form of documentation error, such as one inspector appearing to have filed the same report repeatedly over a span of seven months. Other concerns pertained to firms inconsistently performing criminal background checks and housing inspectors with past or current ties to construction businesses "finding" flaws in homes and then recommending a colleague's firm to repair the damage. 

With any industry there will always be the troublesome minority that tries to cut corners, but for a reliable and professional home inspection company in the Maryland area, check out Alban Inspections! Visit our website for more information on all of the services we offer!