Written by Dennis Cheslik

There is a growing wave of eco-friendly Americans that are joining the LOHAS movement, Lifestyles of Health and Sustainability. According to the study by Yale and George Mason Universities, 18% of Americans are in the "Alarmed" category regarding climate change and 33% are "Concerned". Other findings included: consumers are willing to pay more for green, higher prices would not deter them from buying environmentally friendly products, and it is important that companies take action to reduce environmental impacts. With 51% of Americans in the "Alarmed" or "Concerned" category, it is essential for contractors to offer the latest green alternatives available to meet the growing demands of the LOHAS movement.

Consumers are becoming more aware of the advantages of improving their energy efficiency and alternative energy options. Although our current economic environment is deterring many consumers to upgrade, the energy tax deduction incentives, and higher utility costs have persuaded many to make those home improvements this year. As our economy rebounds and more consumers become aware, the demand for energy efficiency and alternative energy will expand. Green contractors will be on the front line and in high demand.

Written by Dennis Cheslik | 20 November 2009

Here in the sunbelt, in North Texas, it makes total logical sense to own your own solar energy system. Electricity prices have doubled over the past 5 years. Generating your own power can cut that in half, or even cover all your electrical needs, depending on the system you purchase. If you're hesitating because of the current economic situation, you may want to reconsider. The government energy tax incentive will expire at the end of the year and the clock is ticking. Right now, the government will cover 30% of your solar investment. If you spend $20,000 on your system, which is a benchmark price, you'll end up paying, after taxes, only $14,000. The 30% tax incentive is incapped no matter what price system you purchase.

Depending on exactly where you live, another energy benefit may be available to you. Certain electrical providers offer incentives to customers that purchase their own solar energy system. For example, Oncor delivery service, that covers a major portion of the DFW area, offers a rebate program that pays you. Be sure to check with your local delivery provider for any rebates in your area.

Written by Dennis Cheslik

There's no doubt about  in Texas that Austin is leading the way in the green movement for the state. The  home energy audit ordinance that went into effect June 1st of this year when homeowners became required to have an energy audit performed prior to any home being sold has stirred up a lot of controversary.  The ordinance applies to any home older than 10 years. Failure to comply with the ordinance could result in fines up $500. Although no improvements are required before the sale, a copy of the audit must be submitted to Austin Energy, as well as a copy given to the potential buyer.

Proponents of the ordinance argue that the requirement is another additional cost for sellers, which hurts negotiating power, and delays sales. Audit price ranges from $200-$500. Supporters of the ordinance insist the measure allows buyers to fully understand how efficient their investment will be. City leaders, who approved the ordinance in an attempt to reduce energy use and green the city, have felt the heat from both sides.

Spotlighted Sponsor: Allied American Service Company

When our customers ask us for advice on installing a top of the line cooling system, we recommend the Trane XL 20i. It's two compressor system allows you to cool your home with less than half the energy consumption of older inefficient systems. It offers a seasonal energy rating of up to 21.00 SEER which makes it one of the most energy efficient systems in the industry. One of the newer features that make it so efficient are two-stage cooling, dual compressors, and a multi-stage fan motor. Along with the XL20i, we recommend installing the Trane XC80/95 variable speed, two stage gas furnace and the Trane Clean Effects filtration system that removes over 99% of the dust, pollen, and irritants from indoor air, making your home the healthiest and most efficient it can be.

For our customers seeking a lower priced alternative, we recommend the Trane XR13 R410a system. It features a 10 year parts warranty and all of the patented Trane technologies that make it "Hard to Stop a Trane". With up to a 14 SEER rating it can save up to 43% over your old energy hog. When comparing the alternatives, we explain the XL20i is eligible for the new energy tax credit, but the XR13 is not. The time is right to use the tax credit...yet it's always left to the consumer to decide. We also tell all our customers many other ways to improve their energy efficiency: regular air filter schedule, coil cleaning, annual system maintenance, weather stripping, window efficiency, insulation, and attic ventilation.

Allied has served the North Texas area for over 20 years. We also specialize in appliance repair on all makes and models of manufacturer products. For more information check our website at: www.alliedamerican.net  or call 972-539-7077.