Hawaii Homeowner's Guide to Energy, Comfort & Value

HAWAII HOMEOWNER'S GUIDE TO ENERGY, COMFORT & VALUE

Creating a High

Performance

Home

This guide provides tips to help you

make your home more:

Comfortable

Affordable to operate

Healthy

Easy on the environment

Valuable

Durable

The “Three Big Bang” Techniques

of a High Performance Home:

Indoor Air Quality page 34

Refer to section pages for more details

Termite Control page 35

Preventing Mold

page 33

Water Heating

Electric Lighting

Daylighting

High Performance AC

Appliances

Energy-Efficient Homes

3. Use Natural

Ventilation

(page 24)

1. Use a solar

water heater

(page 5)

2. Block the

sun's heat

(page 18)

HAWAII HOMEOWNER'S GUIDE TO ENERGY, COMFORT & VALUE

back page

Building Materials

Water Conservation

Construction Waste Management

Recycling and Composting

Resource-Efficient Homes

Energy-Efficient Homes Checklist

Comfortable Homes Checklist

Resource-Efficient Homes Checklist

Healthy Homes Checklist

Additional Resources

Indoor Air Quality

Termite Control

Healthy Homes

In Addition

Building Materials page 28

Refer to section pages for more details

Water Conservation page 30

Construction Waste

Management page 31

Recycling/Composting page 32

Cool Roofs

Cool Windows

Cool Walls

Natural Ventilation

Ceiling Fans

Site Planning/Landscaping

Comfortable Homes

HAWAII HOMEOWNER'S GUIDE TO ENERGY, COMFORT & VALUE

Energy Cost Reduction Strategies

Typical utility bills are $90 per month. The cost jumps up

to more than $200 per month for air conditioned homes.

Savings of $30 to $50 per month are feasible. This pie

chart shows electrical energy use for a typical family of

four in Hawaii. Source: Hawaiian Electric Company, Inc.

Avoid the Need for Air Conditioning

Air conditioning is expensive to install and operate.

Save money and still be comfortable by following the

Comfortable Homes strategies described later. The

Cool Roofs recommendations are especially important.

Save about $18,000 in cost for central systems and

$400 per year in energy costs by avoiding air

conditioning. Air conditioning can also be a source of

mold and mildew.

Daylighting

pages 10-12

Efficient Water

Heating

pages 5, 6

Energy-Efficient

Appliances

pages 15, 16

High

Performance Air

Conditioning

pages 13, 14

Efficient

Lighting

pages 7-9

clothes washer

15%

refrigerator/

freezer

dishwasher

cooking

lighting

dryer

misc.

12%

air conditioner

40%

water

heater

Energy-

Efficient

Homes

Cool Roofs page 18

Refer to section pages for more details

Cool Windows page 21

Cool Walls page 23

Natural Ventilation page 24

Site Planning/Landscaping

page 27

HAWAII HOMEOWNER'S GUIDE TO ENERGY, COMFORT & VALUE

Water Heating

Refer to section pages for more details

Electric Lighting page 7

Daylighting page 10

High Performance AC page 13

Efficient Appliances page 15

The best opportunity to

cut your utility bill

Water Heating

A utility-approved solar water heater is the most

important energy savings step for a Hawaii home.

Conventional water heating is a big expense. It accounts

for about 40% of the utility bill in a Hawaii house. A solar

system isn't cheap, but much of the installation cost can

be offset by state tax credits and utility rebates, and may

help you qualify for an Energy Star Mortgage.*

Types of water heaters

Costs

Type of

water

heater

Installed cost

(for average size

system)

Energy cost

per year

(for average

family of four)

Solar $2,000+ $55

BEST

$1,000+ $220Heat PumpBETTER

Gas $400 $370FAIR

Electric

Resistance $350 $520POOR

Solar

Saves 80% - 90% of water heating costs.

Energy savings can pay back the installation

cost in less than 4 years.

BEST

POOR

Electric Resistance

Most common but most expensive to use.

Check the Energy Guide label and buy the most

energy efficient water heater.

Gas

Some savings, requires gas service.

Consider a high efficiency model with an energy

factor (EF) of 0.65 or higher.

FAIR

BETTER

Heat pump

Works like an air conditioner in reverse, heating

water and cooling air. Look for a coefficient of

performance (COP) of 2.7 or better.

(Big Bang Technique #1)

*Does your new home qualify for an Energy Star Mortgage?

A utility-approved solar water heater is all that is needed for a

non-air conditioned Hawaii home! Call the utilities listed on the

back page for more information.

page 5

Termite Control

Tips & Techniques

Cost

Savings

Water Heating

Electric

$520

Gas

$370

Heat

pump

$220

Solar

$55

Get a State of Hawaii tax credit for solar and

heat pump water heating systems. In 2002,

the savings are 35% for solar systems.*

Call your utility company when planning your

solar system. Utility incentives may be

available for efficient water heating systems,

further reducing the cost. Utilities may also

provide lists of qualified contractors.

Insulate hot water pipes with at least ½"

foam or 1" fiberglass insulation.

Set the thermostat for 120°F or less.

Plan for solar water heating in the future (if

not possible at present) by providing hot

water pipe stubs.

Install water-conserving fixtures like low-flow

showerheads and aerators in faucets.

Consider horizontal-axis (front-loading)

washing machines that use much less water.

Savings range from $400 to $600 per year

compared to an electric water heater (based

on 14.5c/kWh).

A typical solar system costs about $4,000,

but the cost to the homeowner can be much

less due to tax credits and utility incentives.*

*See the Additional Resources section on the back of this

brochure for places to find latest information on tax credits, utility

rebates, Energy Star Mortgages, and other incentives.

Comparison of cost per year

for each type of water heater for typical

family of four (based on 14.5c/kWh).

(Big Bang Technique #1)

HAWAII HOMEOWNER'S GUIDE TO ENERGY, COMFORT & VALUE

Indoor Air Quality

A cost effective investment

Lighting

Explaining lighting terms

Color Appearance

Lumens & Efficacy

Ballasts

Lumens describe a quantity of light. Efficacy is expressed in lumens

per watt; bulbs that use fewer watts to produce the same amount of

light have higher efficacy.

55 lumens

per watt

Compact

Flourescent Lamp

(CFL)

BETTER

800 lumens

13 watts

An efficient lighting system uses fluorescent lamps as the

primary light source and may selectively use incandescent

(also halogen, a type of incandescent) for accent lighting and

for applications where the light is usually off (like exterior

lights on motion sensor controls).

Modern fluorescent lighting can provide excellent color

rendering and be free of flicker and hum. And start up is

nearly instantaneous with electronic instant-start and rapid-

start ballasts. Fluorescent lighting costs more initially but pays

for itself. Remember that fluorescent lamps last 10 to 20 times

longer than incandescents, saving energy all the while, so the

lifetime cost is much lower. Plus, fluorescent lights do not emit

as much heat as incandescents.

Color Rendering

Color Rendering Index (CRI) tells how well a light source shows

colors. A higher value (up to 100) generally means more accurate

colors. For fluorescent lamps, choose a CRI of 70 or higher for most

uses and consider a CRI of 80 or more for applications like bathroom

vanity lights.

Correlated Color Temperature (CCT) refers to the apparent color of a

light source. Warmer colors have lower CCT, cooler colors have

higher CCT. Fluorescent lamps cover a wide range. The best choice is

a matter of personal preference.

Ballasts are devices that control both the voltage needed to start a

fluorescent bulb and the current required during bulb operation.

Electronic ballasts are more efficient than magnetic ballasts, run

cooler, and eliminate flicker and humming. Electronic ballasts may

not be available for small fluorescent lamps like 9 or 13 watt CFLs.

warm

2700

1800

Candle

light

2800

Typical

incandescent

3000

Halogen

incandescent

5500

Sunlight

3000 3500 4100 5000

coolneutral

Range of fluorescent light:

90 lumens

per watt

4-ft. T-8

Flourescent

BEST

3,000 lumens

32 watts

Standard

Incandescent

13 lumens

per watt

POOR

800 lumens

60 watts

HAWAII HOMEOWNER'S GUIDE TO ENERGY, COMFORT & VALUE

Efficient Electric LightingEfficient Electric Lighting

Full-Size, Surface Mount or Recessed, Ceiling

Under Cabinet

Recessed Can

Bathroom

Ceiling Mount

Table Lamp

Floor Lamp

Wall Sconce

Low Voltage Halogen Spotlights

T5 and twintube CFL work well (look hard for CRI >80).

Great to eliminate dark counters in kitchen or office.

26 watt compact fluorescent instead of 100 watt

incandescent.

For kitchen, bathroom, living room. Anywhere to

provide more dramatic down light; good optical

designs have low glare.

Saves about $12 per year.

Electronic ballasts (or electronic starters in small

CFLs) start lamps flicker-free.

Best to buy fixtures specifically designed for

pin-based CFLs.

One four-foot T8 lamp (32 watts) in pleasing fixture

instead of three 40-watt incandescents; select 3500 K,

85 CRI lamp for most flattering look.

Use over mirror in bathroom, or a 17-watt (2 ft.) T8

luminaire along each side of the mirror.

Two 26-watt CFLs instead of two 100-watt

incandescents save about $24 per year.

Use in bedroom, kitchen, living room, or utility rooms.

Different sizes are available.

Look for specially designed table lamps using CFLs,

some with dimming controls.

Many existing table lamps can take screw-base CFLs;

a few CFLs dim or operate with three-way switches.

For living rooms, bedrooms, office.

CFL floor lamps are available to replace traditional

halogen incandescent torchieres; most dim or switch

for a selectable light level.

For living room and bedroom; CFL torchieres are

much cooler and safer than halogen.

Look for CFL fixtures.

Use sparingly to highlight art work or accent

design features

Buy quality bulbs for good performance

Unless you need the flexibility of dimming, use lower

power lamps if you need less light. Dimming makes

lamps yellowish and less efficient.

Two 4-ft. tubes with electronic ballast (60 watts).

Excellent for kitchen and large bathrooms

(especially using lamps with CRI above 80).

Illuminates up to about 100 square feet.

Equal to four 90-watt incandescent (360 watts). Save about $50 per

year (based on three hour per day operation, 14.5 c per kWh).

Clear prismatic acrylic lens distributes light better than simple

diffuser, with less glare.

HAWAII HOMEOWNER'S GUIDE TO ENERGY, COMFORT & VALUE

Tips & Techniques

Efficient Electric Lighting

CRI of 80 or greater for good color

rendering.

Electronic ballast for energy savings.

CCT of 3,000K or less for a warm

look, 3,500K for neutral color, and

4,100K or higher for cool appearance.

To match the yellowish color of typical

incandescent lamps, many CFLs have

a CCT of 2,700K.

For long tubes choose T-8 (1"

diameter) bulbs with electronic ballasts

instead of T-12 (1.5" diameter).

Conserve energy with controls like

timers, occupancy sensors, and photo

sensors.

Use halogen lamps sparingly for

accent lighting. They are not very

efficient and can even be dangerously

hot in some fixtures like torchieres. A

CFL torchiere may save enough

energy in its first year of use to pay

back the entire extra cost of the better

technology.

A few CFLs can use typical residential

dimmers, but read each CFL package

carefully! Most CFLs CANNOT

operate properly with dimmers, and

could cause a fire.

Most other types of fluorescent lamps

can also dim, but the proper ballasts

and controllers are expensive. If you

buy a dimming ballast, use the

controls and lamps the ballast

manufacturer recommends.

White colored ceilings and walls

increase light levels.

What to Look for in

Fluorescent Lights:

Other tips:

HAWAII HOMEOWNER'S GUIDE TO ENERGY, COMFORT & VALUE

Waste not, want not

Tips & Techniques

The other solar energy system

Daylighting

Sunlight connects us to the outdoors and natural

rhythms. It can reduce electricity bills, too. The trick to

using daylight in Hawaii is to get enough light without

too much heat.

Use horizontal shutters

if exterior shades are not feasible.

Angle your

horizontal shutters

to bounce daylight

into the room.

Consider products that

include recycled plastics,

such as polywood shutters.

light shelf

Windows are usually a home’s main source of daylight.

Try to block direct sunlight and bounce light onto the

ceiling.

Daylight and windows

Shutters

Use light-

colored

surfaces.

Raise top of

window as high

as possible.

Light-colored interior

surfaces are

very important.

Higher ceilings

improve light

penetration.

Daylight can also

reflect off adjacent walls.

HAWAII HOMEOWNER'S GUIDE TO ENERGY, COMFORT & VALUE

Don't let it go down the drain

Skylights

Skylights can provide very pleasant light, making a room

feel bright and airy. Follow these tips to get good light

distribution without creating excessive heat and glare.

Use this table as a rough guide to select skylight size.

Daylighting

Clear prismatic or white diffuse

skylights provide best light distribution.

With vented skylights,

place the skylight

in the leeward

(downwind) side of

the roof for best

performance.

Skylight Features

Consider vented

skylights, but only if room

is NOT air conditioned.

Well should be as

shallow as possible

to minimize light loss.

Higher ceiling

improves distribution.

CEILING

wind

direction

ROOF

Sloped walls of the

skylight well also

improve distribution.

Floor area covered (square feet)Skylight size

1.5' x 1.5' (2.2 sq. ft.)

2' x 2' (4 sq. ft.)

2' x 3' (6 sq. ft.)

2' x 4' (8 sq. ft.)

50 - 110

100 - 200

150 - 300

200 - 400

HAWAII HOMEOWNER'S GUIDE TO ENERGY, COMFORT & VALUE

Building Materials

Tubular skylights are often less expensive to install and

can help brighten spaces that might otherwise be

difficult to daylight.

Clear dome

skylight

Tube with reflective

inner lining

Avoid unnecessary bends

in the tube and keep it as

short as possible.

Tubular Skylights

Tips & Techniques

Cost

Savings

8" tube serves up to

about 100 square feet.

13" tube serves up to

about 150 square feet.

Daylighting

Light-colored interior finishes are

critical for good light distribution. A

white ceiling is recommended.

Minimize area of east- or west-facing

windows or use polywood shutters.

Blue or green glass transmits more

visible light than gray or bronze tints

(see Cool Windows section).

Rooms with higher ceilings and narrow

floor plans are easier to daylight.

Consider several smaller skylights

instead of one larger skylight for better

light distribution.

$100 - $200 plus installation

Save up to $50 per year in lighting

electricity cost for each skylight.

Light diffuser

at ceiling

HAWAII HOMEOWNER'S GUIDE TO ENERGY, COMFORT & VALUE

Tips & Techniques

Reduce, reuse, recycle

Bigger is not always better

High Performance

Air-Conditioning

In terms of energy, economy, and health, it is best NOT to

air condition your home. However, if you live in a dusty or

noisy area, you might want AC. In that case:

Look for EER*

of 10 or higher.

Look for SEER**

of 11 or better.

Performs most efficiently

in a shaded location,

like on the north side

of a home.

Install on a level surface

**Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio* Energy Efficiency Ratio

Consider units with

multi-speed fans &

compressors for better

overall performance.

How much AC do I need?

200 - 300 6,000

250 - 350 7,000

150 - 250 5,000

300 - 400 8,000

350 - 450 9,000

400 - 550 10,000

500 - 650 12,000

750 - 1000 18,000

575 - 800 14,000

Floor area

(in square feet)

Capacity (Btu/hr.)

Window

Air Conditioner

Ductless Split

System AC

Follow the recommendations for Cool Roofs, Walls,

and Windows (to minimize your AC use).

Compare Energy Guide labels.

Seal air leaks in the home and ducts.

Choose an AC unit that is not too big, but just the

right size.

Applies to window or ductless spilt system AC. Consult contractor for

central AC size.

Not Too Big!

Smaller AC units run more efficiently and usually provide

better comfort and air quality. They don’t cycle on and off

as much, and they remove more moisture from the air,

reducing the risk of mold and mildew growth.

HAWAII HOMEOWNER'S GUIDE TO ENERGY, COMFORT & VALUE

Plan to stay cool

Tips & Techniques

Cost

Savings

High Performance AC

Install a radiant barrier or

insulation under the roof

to help keep ducts cool.

Insulate ducts

to at least R-4.

Provide return vents or

transfer grilles for each

room with a supply vent.

Choose a system with

SEER of 13 or higher.

A multi-speed fan and compressor

provide better comfort and efficiency.

If using a pre-insulated flexible duct, stretch it to its full length, and

don't allow sharp turns. Otherwise airflow drops dramatically.

Mechanically fasten (with screws

or nylon straps) and seal all

connections with mastic or

aluminum tape with butyl adhesive.

(NOT cloth duct tape).

Before installing AC check the

recommendations for Cool Roofs,

Walls, Windows, and Natural

Ventilation. Do not air condition your

home unless absolutely necessary.

Seal joints in walls, floors and ceilings.

Use acrylic latex, polyurethane, or

silicone-based sealants.

Choose high-quality, low air leakage

windows and doors or seal them with

weatherstripping.

Provide a drain for condensed water

from the cooling coil. Always empty

the drain pan to prevent mold growth.

Make sure that AC systems are easily

accessible for maintenance.

Hire a contractor to periodically clean

coils and check refrigerant charge.

Central AC System

Proper sizing and installation saves

20% to 30% or more on AC costs.

Electricity cost for a window AC is

$0.20 to $0.40 per hour and can add

up quickly. A typical central AC costs

in the range of $0.60 to $1.00 per

hour. Annual AC costs are $300 to

$500.

Try to place

outdoor unit in a

cool shaded spot.

HAWAII HOMEOWNER'S GUIDE TO ENERGY, COMFORT & VALUE

Computer

Printer

Hair dryer

$0.92

$0.58

$0.69

Refrigerator

Range

Microwave

Toaster

Exhaust hood

Coffeemaker

$5.77

$3.46

$1.50

$0.69

$0.58

Television $6.92

Stereo $1.15

Answering machine

$0.58

Dollars per month to operate

The savings add up!The savings add up!

Look for energy efficiency

labels on new appliances

Energy-Efficient

Appliances

Over the life of most household appliances, their

operation costs will far exceed the original purchase

price. Energy-efficient appliances may initially cost more

than standard appliances, but cost much less to operate.

Average monthly energy costs for common household

appliances (based on utility rate of 14.5c per kilowatt

hour of electricity):

Read the Energy Guide labels to compare energy costs.

Appliances with the ENERGY STAR and Green Seal

labels are efficient choices.

0 5 10 15 20 25 30 35

$34.62

Natural Ventilation

Tips & Techniques

Cost

Savings

HAWAII HOMEOWNER'S GUIDE TO ENERGY, COMFORT & VALUE

Install dishwashers with built-in booster heater so

you can lower the water heater temperature setpoint.

Select a unit with an energy-saving wash cycle.

Use the air-drying cycle to save energy.

Regularly clean the filter at the bottom of the

dishwasher.

Energy-Efficient AppliancesEnergy-Efficient Appliances

Consider induction or halogen cooktops instead of

electric burners.

Install a range hood to vent heat and humidity.

Use microwave and toaster ovens rather than a

full-size electric oven.

Install self-cleaning ovens; they have better insulation.

Use a convection oven instead of a standard

electric oven.

Select ovens with windows so that you don't need to

open the oven to look at what's cooking.

Use a clothes line to replace electric or gas clothes

dryers.

Use a horizontal-axis, front loading washing machine

to save water and water heating energy.

If you must use a dryer, select one with moisture

sensors and cooldown cycles.

Clean dryer filter often, vent clothes dryer directly to

the outside of the home.

Compare Energy Guide labels for savings.

Buy the right size - 14 to 17 cubic feet for

3 to 4 occupants.

Choose a model with top or bottom freezer rather

than side-by-side.

Avoid models with ice makers and through-door

water dispensers.

Look for separate controls for the freezer and

refrigerator compartments.

Provide 3” of air space around coils for them to

operate efficiently.

Place refrigerator away from heat sources

such as stoves, ranges, and dishwashers.

Set temperatures at about 36º-38ºF in the

refrigerator and 0º-5ºF in the freezer.

Refrigerators

Cooking Appliances

Laundry Equipment

Dishwashers

Natural Ventilation

HAWAII HOMEOWNER'S GUIDE TO ENERGY, COMFORT & VALUE

Comfortable

Homes

There's more than

one way to keep cool

The keys to Hawaiian comfort:

Air Temperature

Keep the sun's heat out and stay cooler.

Cool Roof (page 18)

Cool Window (page 21)

(let the view in and keep the sun out)

Cool Wall (page 23)

Air Movement

A gentle breeze increases the rate of evaporation

from your skin and helps you feel much cooler.

Natural Ventilation (page 24)

Ceiling Fans (page 26)

Site Planning (page 27)

Radiant Temperature

Cooler indoor surfaces help you feel comfortable.

Cool Roof (page 18)

Cool Wall (page 23)

A comfortable Hawaii home uses a combination of

strategies to keep cool. In most cases, air conditioning

is unnecessary with proper attention to comfort

design.

Cooling with nature

HAWAII HOMEOWNER'S GUIDE TO ENERGY, COMFORT & VALUE

To cool your home,To cool your home,

start at the top

Cool Roofs

Cost

Tips & Techniques

Savings

A cool roof is essential for a comfortable home. A

roof's second most important job in Hawaii, after

keeping out the rain, is to keep out the sun. A roof

that blocks the sun's heat keeps the home cooler and

much more comfortable. If your home has air-

conditioning, a cool roof will eliminate or reduce its

use, cutting your electricity bills. Eliminating air

conditioning will save up to $18,000 for the cost of a

new system and about $400 a year in electricity.

Ventilate the attic, especially when

using a radiant barrier. A baffled

ridge vent and large soffit vents are

recommended (see page 20).

If a ridge vent is not feasible, use a

solar powered vent fan in

combination with eave or soffit vents.

Avoid compressing insulation

as that will reduce its effectiveness.

Keep attic vents clear if installing

insulation.

Consider encapsulated products if

choosing fiberglass insulation to

reduce the chance of contact with

fibers.

As an alternative to fiberglass,

consider blown-in insulation made

from recycled paper and treated with

fire and pest retardant.

Install a white roof to keep the roof

surface 20

- 40

F cooler.

$0.50 - $2.00 per square foot.

$360 - $450 per year in reduced

air conditioning costs for an

average-sized house.

(Big Bang Technique #2)

Keep the sun out and stay cool

Tips & Techniques

Cost

Cool wall options:

HAWAII HOMEOWNER'S GUIDE TO ENERGY, COMFORT & VALUE

Cool roof options:

How insulation keeps you cool:

Foam Board Insulation

Radiant Barrier

R-19 Fiberglass Insulation

Good to

install here...

May need wood sheet on top of

foam board on which to nail roof shingles.

Exposed wood

ceiling

Install with shiny

side down for

best performance.

Staple to roof

framing in an

existing attic*

Drape across

outside roof

framing if building

new roof*

Wall

...or better here (between the ceiling joists)

Insulation is measured by “R-value.”

The higher the R-value, the thicker and

more effective the insulation.

For Hawaii, an R-value

of R-19 (about 6" thick)

is recommended.

Foam board insulation works well for open beam

ceilings. A thickness of 2" is recommended.

Foam board

insulation (2" thick)

(Cutaway View)

Roof

WITHOUT

INSULATION

WITH

INSULATION

Ceiling

here

or here

INSULATIONINSULATION

Ceiling

feels 5

-10

cooler

Radiant barriers are measured by their “emissivity” or ability to

keep heat from radiating down to the ceiling.

A radiant barrier with an emissivity

rate of 0.05 or less is recommended.

By blocking heat on the roof from getting into the attic,

the ceiling and the rest of the house stay cool and comfortable.

Cool Roofs

*Provide a minimum 3/4" air gap next to the shiny face. An air gap

on both sides is preferred, if possible.

(Big Bang Technique #2)

Tips & Techniques

Cost

Savings

Cool Windows

HAWAII HOMEOWNER'S GUIDE TO ENERGY, COMFORT & VALUE HAWAII HOMEOWNER'S GUIDE TO ENERGY, COMFORT & VALUE

WIND

Cool Roofs

For homes with attics, good ventilation is recommended

when a radiant barrier is installed. And ventilation is

also helpful even when the attic floor is insulated.

Attic Ventilation

Total vent area should be at

least 1/2 square inch for each

1 square foot of attic area.

Divide area equally between

ridge and eave vents.

Gable vents can be effective

if located on both windward

and leeward sides of the

house. Total vent area

should be at

least 1 square

inch per

1 square

foot of attic.

Ridge and Eave or Soffit Vents

Other Venting Options

Wind and rain are

blocked by baffle.

Eave vent lets fresh

air into attic.

Ridge vent

allows hot air

to escape.

HOT AIR

IN ATTIC

As wind travels over top of ridge

vent, it creates low pressure which

pulls the hot air out of attic.

front view

side view

Soffit Vent

Ridge

vent

Eave Vent

Provide 3/4"

gap on either side

of tie beam.

attic

Combine a baffled ridge vent with eave or soffit

vents for best airflow.

(Big Bang Technique #2)

Keep cool with a view, too

Cool Windows

Windows deserve attention because they are the easiest

way for the sun’s heat to enter into your house. The best

cooling strategy is shading. Overhangs, awnings, and

trees keep the sun from striking the window. Where

exterior shading isn't feasible, invest in solar-control

windows.

Solar Control Windows

Window Film

Look for the SHGC on the window's NFRC label.

For existing windows, plastic window films can be applied to reduce

heat. A wide variety are available. Applied to clear glass, they

reduce SHGC from around 0.9 down to as low as 0.3.

High performance films reduce heat

while allowing in visible light. Look

for a SHGC of 0.40 or less, together

with a VLT of no less than 0.40.

Typical values

(see below for details)

Window type

Cost

SHGC

VLT

POOR

Clear

_.86 .90 71%

GOOD

Gray or

bronze

tinted

+.50c/s.f..69 .61 35%

UV%

***

BETTER

Green/

blue

tinted

+.50c/s.f..69 .83 42%

Make sure to get the “tropical,” “sunbelt,”

or “low-e squared” type of low-e window

with a SHGC of less than 0.40.

BEST

Double-paned

Low-e

windows

+$4.00/s.f..36 .70 43%

*SHGC = Solar Heat Gain Coefficient measures the fraction

of solar heat admitted through a window; the lower

the SHGC, the less heat transmitted.

**VLT = Visible Light Transmission indicates the fraction of

visible light admitted through a window; the higher

the VLT, the more light that passes through.

***UV = Ultraviolet light. Lowering the UV light coming in

through a window can help prevent sun damage to

people, furnishings, carpeting, and drapes.

HAWAII HOMEOWNER'S GUIDE TO ENERGY, COMFORT & VALUE

Cool roof options:

How insulation keeps you cool:

INSULATION

Cool Roofs

Tips & Techniques

Cost

Savings

Up to about $200 per year for a typical

home with air conditioning.

$0.30 - $4.00 per square foot

(depending on strategies)

Windows on the north or south side

are preferred because they are easiest

to shade.

Avoid west-facing windows unless you

really like the view, because it is

difficult to block the afternoon sun.

East-facing window area should be

minimized as well, especially in hot

parts of the islands.

Vinyl or wood frames block heat gain

somewhat better than aluminum

frames.

White frames are a little better

because they reflect sunlight and stay

cooler.

Try to orient your biggest windows facing north or south so they

can be more easily shaded with a roof overhang.

NOTE: Be aware that compass north is not equal to true north.

In Hawaii, true north is 10

east of magnetic north. So try to face

the widest part of your house 10

east of magnetic north.

Use horizontal shades for

north- & south-facing windows.

Use vertical shades

for east- & west-facing

windows.

Cool Windows

To determine how much of a roof overhang to build:

Orientation & Window Blinds

Roof Overhangs

Use a 45

angle for overhangs

over windows that face south

(sun is lower in the sky in the south).

Use a 70

angle for overhangs

over windows that face north

(sun is higher in the sky

in the north).

SOUTH NORTH

window

south

north

Compass north

True

north

HAWAII HOMEOWNER'S GUIDE TO ENERGY, COMFORT & VALUE

To cool your home,

start at the top

Cost

Tips & Techniques

Savings

Keep the sun out and stay cool

Cool Walls

Tips & Techniques

Cost

Unshaded walls can get very hot and make your home

uncomfortable. The best “cool wall” strategy is shading

with overhanging eaves, lanais, or landscaping. If

complete shade isn’t feasible, use insulation or radiant

barriers in the exposed walls as illustrated below. In air

conditioned homes, all walls should have insulation or

radiant barriers to reduce electricity bills and air

conditioner size requirements.

$0.25 to $1.00 per square foot

for new walls.

Use a white exterior finish to improve

cool wall performance.

Consider spray-on cellulose and

foamed-in-place insulation as

alternatives to fiberglass batts. They

offer better sound reduction and air

sealing.

Blown-in insulation is a retrofit option

for existing walls.

Cool wall options:

Radiant Barriers

Insulation and radiant barriers work well to keep the sun's heat

from seeping through the walls into your home.

Radiant barriers can be

installed on the inside or

outside of a wall stud.

Install with the shiny

side facing the air gap

for best results.

Example of a radiant

barrier stapled to interior

wall stud.

interior wall

Wall Insulation

A rating of R-11 is

recommended for

wall insulation

in Hawaii.

Insulation reduces

heat transfer into

your home.

interior wall

WALL

STUD

side view

Install here...

Radiant barriers

...or here

WALL

STUD

HAWAII HOMEOWNER'S GUIDE TO ENERGY, COMFORT & VALUE

There's more than

one way to keep cool

Cooling with nature

Natural Ventilation

Gentle trade winds can make air conditioning

unnecessary in most areas of Hawaii. Fortunately,

summer is the windiest time of year in Hawaii, and you

can capture cooling breezes to keep your home

comfortable. Natural ventilation also helps reduce health

hazards such as mold and mildew.

Trade winds blow about

90% of the time in summer

and about 50% of the time

in winter.

Note that wind direction

may vary based on the

local landscape.

TRADE

WINDS

Where does the wind come from?

Where should I put the openings?

Orientation about 45

to wind direction is best.

Wind direction

Opposite walls

Adjacent walls

Single wall

Casement window*

*Casement window

opening direction

is important.

GOOD

FAIR

POOR GOOD

VERY GOOD

(Big Bang Technique #3)

HAWAII HOMEOWNER'S GUIDE TO ENERGY, COMFORT & VALUE

Energy-Efficient Appliances

How big should the openings be?

The “Chimney” Ventilation Alternative

Natural Ventilation

(Big Bang Technique #3)

A reasonable rule of thumb is that the opening area

should be about 12% of the floor area. Use more area for

calm locations and less for very windy locations.

Remember that the opening area is less than the total

window area.

Take advantage of the bouyancy of warm air to ventilate

the house, even when no one is home.

Opening Area as Percentage of Window Area:

Single Hung

45%

Casement

90%

Sliding

45%-50%

Awning

75%

Jalousie

75%

Hopper

45%

Draw air from a cool shaded spot, as low as possible.

Place outlet vents as high as possible, options

include: vented skylight, ridge vents, vented

cupola(s), gable vents and exhaust fans.

Provide generous vent area:

Consult an architect with stack ventilation

experience for design details.

at least 1 square inch per 1 square foot of

floor area for combined inlet and outlet area,

roughly 50/50 inlet/outlet.

HAWAII HOMEOWNER'S GUIDE TO ENERGY, COMFORT & VALUE

The savings add up!

Look for energy efficiency

labels on new appliances

Energy-Efficient

Ceiling Fans

Room area (in square feet*)

$75 - $200

*To calculate the square footage of a room, multiply the width times

the length. For example, a 10'x10' room would be 100 square feet.

Minimum fan diameter

36"100

150

42"

225 48"

375

52"

2 Fans Needed

400+

What size ceiling fan do I need to cool my room?

Costs:

at least

18" from

walls

8'-9'

above floor

is best

at least 8"

below ceiling;

10"-12" is

recommended

(Big Bang Technique #3)

Natural Ventilation

Tips & Techniques

Cost

Savings

Provide shade on the windward side to keep

incoming air cool. Shade the sunny side, also.

Place appliances like refrigerators, ovens, and

washer/dryers on the downwind side of the

house.

Try to place openings where they are secure

from entry or rain so they can stay open at

night and when no one is home.

Provide catches to hold interior doors open to

improve air flow or install louvered interior

doors.

To ensure comfort, also follow the

recommendations for Cool Roofs, Walls and

Windows.

Casement windows are excellent for natural

ventilation; jalousies should be avoided if the

home will be air conditioned.

Install ceiling fans to help out on calm days.

Consider vented skylights in tall spaces

(see Daylighting section).

Good orientation and sizing of openings

can be free.

Avoiding air conditioning saves about

$18,000 in construction costs and $400 per

year in electricity bills.

Ceiling fans create a gentle breeze

that can take over comfort duties

when the wind quits. They are

also an excellent choice in noisy

or dusty areas where it’s unpleasant to keep the windows open.

Multi-speed fans can be adjusted to individual preferences.

Ceiling fans only need to run

when someone's in the room.

Otherwise they should be

turned off to save energy.

HAWAII HOMEOWNER'S GUIDE TO ENERGY, COMFORT & VALUE

Plan to stay coolPlan to stay cool

Site Planning/Landscaping

Through careful planning, you can stay cooler by

keeping the air surrounding your house cooler, too.

Site Planning & Landscaping

for Comfort

1. Build trellises to shade the house and paved areas.

2. Use light-colored roof to stay much cooler and help keep

the surroundings cooler, too.

3. Use new or existing trees to shade walls and grounds.

4. Use light-colored exterior surfaces, such as cream-

colored concrete, that stay cooler in the sun.

5. Limit area of unplanted and paved surfaces.

6. Use porous paving materials that can handle some auto

and foot traffic but still allow grass to grow in gaps.

See the Natural Ventilation section (pages 24-26) for

more site planning considerations.

Orientation is important. Try to minimize the area of

east- and west-facing walls and windows because

they are difficult to shade from the sun.

See the Cool Windows recommendations

(pages 21 & 22) for shading south- and

north- facing windows.

Tips & Techniques

Cost

Savings

High Performance AC

HAWAII HOMEOWNER'S GUIDE TO ENERGY, COMFORT & VALUE

Tips & TechniquesTips & Techniques

Resource-efficient homes make the best use of natural,

human, and built resources. Worldwide, buildings are

responsible for 12% of freshwater withdrawals, 25% of

wood harvest, and 40% of material and energy flow.

In recent years innovation has made available a variety

of resource-efficient products that minimize the overall

environmental impact of a home by conserving the raw

materials and natural resources used to build it.

Conservation can occur at any point in the product's life:

production, use, or disposal.

Reduce, reuse, recycle

Building Materials

Each product used to build a home represents an

investment of energy, water, and raw materials, and has

an impact on the environment. The environmental cost of

building materials is not easily quantified, but there are

several guidelines to help make good decisions.

To minimize waste, design for standard

dimensional lumber, sheathing, and panels.

Avoid creating construction scrap.

Specify installation with screws instead of

glue to permit easy disassembly.

Use salvaged materials.

Avoid unnecessary coverings or coatings.

Resource-

Efficient

Homes

Are produced locally.

Foster the use of less material.

Are durable and long-lasting.

Include recycled content.

Can be recycled.

Are produced from a sustainable and

renewable resource.

Can be reused, reworked, or recycled.

Favor products that:

Bigger is not always better

How much AC do I need?

HAWAII HOMEOWNER'S GUIDE TO ENERGY, COMFORT & VALUE

Building MaterialsBuilding Materials

Concrete

Use concrete with fly ash (a by-product at Oahu’s coal fired

power plant) replacing up to 30% of the Portland cement. Use

epoxy-coated steel reinforcement to extend the life of concrete.

Use reusable form-work to reduce waste. Use recycled

concrete for fill or to make new concrete.

Insulation

Cellulose insulation is made in Hawaii from recycled

newspapers or telephone books and is very resource efficient.

It may be blown, poured into enclosed cavities in a dry form, or

wet-sprayed. Cellulose provides fire retardancy and pest control

when mixed with boric acid or sodium borate. When wet-

sprayed in place, it provides an excellent barrier to air leakage.

Some fiberglass batt insulation is manufactured using recycled

glass. Products are available with at least 30% recycled

content.

Steel Framing

Steel is a durable, termite-proof, recyclable framing material. It

has long-term performance and is easily recyclable. It does not

contribute to poor indoor air quality. Protect studs and joists

from corrosion and rust by using hot-dipped galvanizing and

assembly with good quality connectors. Framing members are

available with a minimum of 25% recycled content.

Lumber

Use sustainably-harvested wood that is certified by the Forest

Stewardship Council (FSC). Use engineered wood products

made from smaller pieces of wood. Products include glulams,

oriented strand board (OSB), laminated veneer lumber (LVLs),

I-joists, and finger jointed lumber. Wood preservatives such as

CCA and tribucide are toxic and present environmental hazards

(both during treatment and at construction waste disposal

sites). ACQ and Hi-Bor are less toxic.

Roofing Materials

Roofing material should be durable, have high reflectance (see

Cool Roof section), and be recyclable. Consider light-colored

metal panels because they are durable and recyclable.

Composite shingles, tiles, and panels made from fiber-

reinforced cement products use recycled-content material and

are durable (but not recyclable). If using asphalt shingles, use

those with high recycled content.

Floor Finishes

Consider salvaged, laminated, and veneered wood flooring.

Laminated flooring makes efficient use of lumber and provides

a durable surface. Bamboo flooring (plywood and tongue-and-

groove) is available locally.

Natural linoleum is highly durable and made from renewable,

biodegradable materials such as wood dust, linseed oil, and

cork.

Traditional carpeting waste and scrap does not decompose

readily and contributes significantly to the construction waste

stream. If using carpets, consider using those made with Nylon

6 or Nylon 6,6 that offer a high level of recyclability, or those

made with recycled content. Modular carpet tiles also reduce

waste because they can be replaced selectively. Wool carpets

(or other natural fibers) are biodegradable and renewable.

Minimum amounts of low- or non-toxic adhesives should be

used to lay the flooring.

Gypsum Board

Drywall manufactured with recycled gypsum is equivalent in

quality and price to conventional drywall.

Tips & Techniques

Cost

Savings

Daylighting

HAWAII HOMEOWNER'S GUIDE TO ENERGY, COMFORT & VALUE

Don't let it go down the drainDon't let it go down the drain

Water Conservation

Trees: wiliwili, kiawe, plumeria, autograph tree.

Shrubs: naupaka, plumbago, ‘ulei, native

plumbago, akia, ilima, kukui, natal plum, wax fiscus.

Vines: bougainvillea, cape honeysuckle.

Groundcovers: succulents, pohinahina, prostrate

ilima, purple lantana, creeping rosemary.

Xeriscaping

Design water-efficient, low-maintenance landscaping

(xeriscaping) by using drought-tolerant landscaping and

native plants. Irrigation costs and water usage can be

lowered 30%-60% through xeriscaping. Some drought-

tolerant plants that grow well in this climate are:

Rainwater Harvesting

Use rainwater-harvesting systems for garden

applications. Also consider rainwater for showers, sinks,

laundries, dishwashers, toilets, and, sparingly, even for

drinking. Rainwater is collected from roof or ground level

surfaces and stored in a cistern. The water is then

filtered and delivered to terminals through pumps.

Gray Water

Use gray water systems for nonpotable purposes like

drought-resistant landscape irrigation and flushing

toilets. Gray water is untreated “used” water that is not

contaminated by toilet waste including water from

showers, bathroom washbasins, and washing machines.

It does not include wastewater from dishwashers,

kitchen sinks, or laundry water from soiled diapers.

Xeriscaping also includes improving the soil; reducing

lawn areas by planting ground cover and local grasses;

using mulch; and collecting surface runoff to water the

plants.

Shrubs and groundcover

usually require the

least water.

grasstreesshrubs/groundcover

Skylights

Daylighting

HAWAII HOMEOWNER'S GUIDE TO ENERGY, COMFORT & VALUE

Waste not, want not

Construction

Waste Management

Tips & Techniques

With a little planning, it’s possible to reduce waste

before it happens. In addition to helping preserve the

Islands’ environment, you can also save quite a bit in

waste disposal fees.

Have your contractor use the

“Construction and Demolition Waste

Management Guide” available from

DBEDT’s Clean Hawaii Center.

Website: www.hawaii.gov/dbedt/ert/chc.

Begin by buying recycled material.

Reuse as much material as possible

on your construction project.

Separate recyclable and reuseable

materials from non-recyclable

materials and supply them to a

business, charitable organization, or

hauler.

Set up specific areas for operations

such as cutting and recycling, and

clearly label these areas.

Use suppliers who use recyclable or

reusable packaging.

Use reusable form-work for concrete.

Provide weather protection for stored

materials.

Avoid the need to truck dirt on or off

the site by balancing site cut and fill.

Preserve existing vegetation and

reuse as landscaping.

Reuse material from deconstructed

and demolished buildings.

Avoid use of hazardous materials that

require special waste handling.

The other solar energy system

Daylight and windows

Shutters

HAWAII HOMEOWNER'S GUIDE TO ENERGY, COMFORT & VALUE

Composting can help lighten the load in your garbage

can each week. If you cannot compost, contact the

county for green waste pickup.

What is it good for?

Compost can be used as a soil supplement in flower

beds, vegetable gardens, lawns, and tree planting. It

helps to conserve moisture, prevent erosion, and reduce

weed growth. It also helps control diseases and pest

infestation in plants, reduces the use of chemical

fertilizers, and helps conserve natural resources.

How to Compost

Composting is the controlled breakdown of

biodegradable yard and kitchen wastes. There are

several ways to get this to happen, and fortunately

nature does most of the work. Success in composting

depends upon sufficient moisture and oxygen.

Yard wastes like leaves, grass

clippings, tree and shrub

trimmings, wood chips, sawdust,

and garden trimmings.

Kitchen wastes like coffee

grounds, tea bags, raw

vegetable scraps, fruit

skins/cores/rinds, and corn

husks.

Meat, bones, fats, grease,

oils, dairy products, and raw

manure. These materials

easily attract animals and

emit odors.

(Refer to county recycling

and composting programs.)

CAN IT BE USED FOR COMPOST?

Buying recycled products and

separating recyclable materials from

your garbage makes a big difference.

Consider creating a space in your

home to collect recyclable materials.

Check with a local recycling center to

see what they can take and what needs to be

separated. Then set up bins to hold recyclables like

newspaper, cardboard, mixed paper, glass, steel,

plastics, and aluminum.

To find listings of products made from recycled

materials, check out the Clean Hawaii Center at

www.hawaii.gov/dbedt/ert/chc. You may also contact

county recycling programs and drop-off centers. See

back cover for their phone numbers.

Recycling

Composting

YES NO

Tips & Techniques

Efficient Electric Lighting

HAWAII HOMEOWNER'S GUIDE TO ENERGY, COMFORT & VALUE

Most Americans spend about 60% of their time at home,

so a healthy home environment is important. And good

indoor air quality is probably the number one feature of a

healthy home.

Healthy

Homes

It’s tough to completely eliminate mold growth, but there

are ways to help prevent it. The important thing to know

is that mold needs both moisture and food, so the basic

strategy is to keep things dry and clean.

Keep Dry and Clean (Prevent Mold)

Mold prevention is our top indoor air quality priority. Molds

(also called mildew) are fungi. Some mold spores can

produce an allergic reaction and a few are very toxic.

Typical Symptoms Include:

Wheezing, difficulty breathing, and shortness of

breath.

Nasal and sinus congestion.

Eye irritation (burning, watery, or reddened eyes; nose

or throat irritation; skin rashes or irritation).

Dry, hacking cough.

Mold Prevention Design Strategies:

Use overhangs to protect walls from rain.

Avoid air conditioning; however, if you must use AC,

carefully insulate AC ducts and provide a well-sealed

vapor barrier (typically plastic) around the insulation.

Avoid the use of vinyl wall covering because it can seal

moisture inside the wall.

Minimize surfaces (drywall, carpet, grout, and rough

unfinished wood) that collect dust or dirt. Whenever

moisture is likely, use smooth surfaces (tile, finished

hardwood, or sealed concrete) that are easy to clean.

Maintenance Strategies:

General cleanliness contributes to a mold-free

environment.

Immediately dry out materials that get wet from spills

or plumbing leaks. Mold can start growing within 24

hours.

Many materials cannot be properly cleaned once

contaminated and may need to be thrown out. For

guidance on cleanup see the U.S. Environmental

Protection Agency web site: www.epa.gov/iaq.

Efficient Electric Lighting

HAWAII HOMEOWNER'S GUIDE TO ENERGY, COMFORT & VALUE

Indoor Air QualityIndoor Air Quality

Provide Fresh Air

A good common-sense method to help maintain good

indoor air quality is to provide natural ventilation. Design

tips for natural ventilation are covered on pages 24-26.

Of course, this strategy is less useful in areas that are

very dusty or have heavy outdoor contamination.

Choose Healthier Materials

The materials we choose to build and furnish our homes

have an impact on indoor air quality. Whenever possible

choose materials with little or no off-gassing of volatile

organic compounds (VOC), which can include irritants,

toxic gases, or noxious odors.

Wood Products

Avoid products with particleboard, which typically contains

formaldehyde.

Use formaldehyde-free or exterior glue plywood instead of

particleboard for countertop bases.

Use exterior grade plywood, wood, or formaldehyde-free

medium density fiberboard (MDF) for structural sheathing.

Avoid wood treated with toxic compounds such as CCA and

ACZA. ACQ and Hi-Bor are considered less toxic.

Finishes

Minimize use of carpet and upholstered materials because

they can off-gas formaldehyde, permit accumulation of

airborne contaminants, and foster growth of mold and dust

mites.

Maximize use of hardwood floors (factory-finished with low

VOC finish or field finished with water-based finish) and

concrete or tile.

Use latex and water-dispersed acrylic paints and sealers

with low or zero VOC content.

Paints should be formaldehyde-free and ammonia-free

(check ingredients). Do not be misled by “low-odor”

advertising (low-odor products may still have troublesome

ingredients).

If adhesives are necessary, use low VOC, water-based

products.

Be aware that vinyl, used in flooring and wall covering,

gives off toxic gases when burned.

Keep Clean During Construction

Install insulation with care to ensure that occupants are not

exposed to irritants such as fibers, retardants, stabilizers,

and chemicals.

Thoroughly clean the building before installation of carpet

and baseboard trim.

Perform final clean-up after construction with a high

efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter vacuum.

A cost effective investment

Explaining lighting terms

HAWAII HOMEOWNER'S GUIDE TO ENERGY, COMFORT & VALUE

Termite ControlTermite Control

Ground Treatment

Destructive Insects

Several effective and less-toxic chemicals are now

available for soil treatment.

For effective soil treatment provide at least 24-hours for the

chemicals to dry and protect the treated soil layer with a

slab, gravel, or surface soil layer.

Termite bait systems are good insect growth regulators.

Keep drainage flow routed away from the building by using

appropriate grading and site drainage systems.

Keep plantings at least 24" from the building perimeter.

Keep the site and work area clean and clear of any organic

debris, wood scraps, cardboard, and paper.

When clearing vegetation, thoroughly remove all roots.

Wood Treatment

When treating wood, consider safer alternatives such as

borate wood treatment (where it is unlikely that the wood

will get wet), ACQ-treated wood, and naturally termite-

resistant wood.

When using oil-borne solvents, allow for adequate drying

time before installation.

Preventative Design and Maintenance

Design with materials that are impervious or unattractive to

termites such as concrete, steel, and plastic.

Poured concrete walls are more termite-resistant than

concrete blocks.

Use alternative, environmentally friendly control methods

such as stainless steel mesh and basaltic termite barriers.

Provide easy access for termite inspection during

occupancy.

Termites are a serious threat to the

health of buildings in Hawaii, and

conventional termite control

strategies can present health risks

to occupants and damage to

ground water. Environmentally

benign wood and ground treatment,

combined with preventive design and

maintenance for termite control, will enhance the health

of the home and its occupants. Termites also create a

health challenge for Hawaii homeowners because pest

control methods may use toxic chemicals.

Tips & Techniques

Cost

Savings

Water Heating

HAWAII HOMEOWNER'S GUIDE TO ENERGY, COMFORT & VALUE

Energy Efficient Homes

Water Heating

Refer to section pages for more detailsRefer to section pages for more details

Electric Lighting page 7

Daylighting page 10

High Performance AC page 13

Efficient Appliances page 15

Use “full-size” fluorescent lamp fixtures for best

efficiency and color rendering.

Choose electronic ballasts and T-8 fluorescent

lamps.

Replace standard incandescent light bulbs with

compact fluorescent bulbs (CFLs).

Replace halogen “torchiere” floor lamps with

compact fluorescent floor lamps (halogen lamps

get very hot and use much more energy).

Use light shelves and clerestory windows to

help bring daylight into rooms.

Install properly-sized skylights.

Do not use AC except under extreme conditions.

Check the recommendations for Cool Roofs,

Walls and Windows (may not need AC).

Buy the proper size air conditioner for your

home (not too big!) - see page 13.

Look for Energy Guide labels to compare energy

costs for various appliances.

Choose a refrigerator with top or bottom freezer

instead of side-by-side.

Install utility-approved solar water heating.

Check for availability of state tax credits, utility

rebates and Energy Star Mortgages.

Set your water heater's thermostat to

120

or less.

Install water conserving fixtures and appliances.

Choose a horizontal-axis, front-loading washing

machine.

(Big Bang Technique #1)

The best opportunity to

cut your utility bill

Types of water heaters

Costs

page 5

HAWAII HOMEOWNER'S GUIDE TO ENERGY, COMFORT & VALUE

Comfortable Homes

Cool Roofs

(Big Bang Technique #2)

page 18

Refer to section pages for more details

Cool Windows

page 21

Cool Walls

page 23

Natural Ventilation

page 24

(Big Bang Technique #3)

Site Planning/Landscaping

page 27

Install R-19 fiberglass insulation, 2" foam

board insulation and/or a radiant barrier.

Ventilate your attic with ridge and eave vents.

Choose a light-colored roof surface.

Shade windows using overhangs.

Choose solar control windows.

Avoid hot morning and afternoon sun by

minimizing the size of east- and west-facing

windows.

Use window film for existing windows.

Orient your windows 45

to wind direction.

Choose casement windows to better capture

air flow.

Make opening area about 12% of the floor

area of the room to be cooled.

Install a multi-speed ceiling fan.

Shade south-facing windows and walls with

roof overhangs.

Build a trellis and use trees to help shade

walls.

Use light-colored concrete or porous paving

materials for driveways and walkways.

Install R-11 insulation or a radiant barrier in

walls exposed to sun.

Choose light colors for wall exteriors.

HAWAII HOMEOWNER'S GUIDE TO ENERGY, COMFORT & VALUE

Resource Efficient Homes

Building Materials page 28

Refer to section pages for more detailsRefer to section pages for more details

Water Conservation page 30

Construction Waste

Management page 31

Recycling/Composting page 32

Use concrete with fly ash and recycled concrete.

Use cellulose insulation or insulation products

that use at least 30% recycled content.

Use steel framing and sustainably harvested

wood for home construction.

Use composite shingles made from fiber-

reinforced cement products for roof.

Use laminated wood flooring or linoleum.

If you must use carpeting, choose carpet made

with recycled content.

Recycle your household newspapers, glass,

plastics, cardboard, and aluminum. Create an

area for collection.

Buy recycled products. Look for the “Buy

Recycled Hawaii” label.

Use composting to recycle yard wastes and

appropriate kitchen wastes for soil supplements

in your garden.

Have your contractor use DBEDT's

“Construction and Demolition Waste

Management Guide” before, during, and after

building your house.

Recycle and reuse as much construction

material as possible.

Avoid using hazardous materials that require

special waste handling.

Use xeriscaping to save on water usage for

landscaping.

Harvest rainwater for garden use.

Use a gray water system for landscape irrigation

and for flushing toilets.

HAWAII HOMEOWNER'S GUIDE TO ENERGY, COMFORT & VALUE

Healthy Homes

Keep your home clean and dry.

Use overhangs to protect walls from rain.

Avoid air conditioning. If you must use it,

carefully insulate AC ducts.

Avoid the use of vinyl wall covering.

Immediately dry out materials that get wet from

spills or plumbing leaks.

Minimize surfaces such as carpet, grout, and

rough unfinished wood that collect dust or dirt.

Whenever moisture is likely, use smooth

surfaces such as tile, finished hardwood, or

sealed concrete that are easy to clean.

Indoor Air Quality

page 34

Refer to section pages for more details

Termite Control

page 35

Provide fresh air to help naturally ventilate your

home.

Use latex and water-dispersed acrylic paints

and sealers with low or zero volatile organic

compound (VOC) content.

Avoid products with particleboard.

Use formaldehyde-free fiberboard; avoid wood

treated with toxic compounds such as CCA.

Preventing Mold

page 33

Use naturally termite-resistant woods or

materials such as concrete, steel, and plastic

that are unattractive to termites.

When using ground treatment, choose less-toxic

chemicals.

Use termite bait systems to help control

termites.

Keep drainage flow away from home.

Keep plantings at least 24" from the building

perimeter.

Additional Resources
Energy, Resources & Technology Division
Hawaii State Department of Business, Economic  
Development & Tourism
P. O. Box 2359
Honolulu, HI 96804-2359
www.hawaii.gov/dbedt/ert
For more detailed information, see these
DBEDT Publications:
  Comfortable Homes in Hawaii Brochure
  Hawaii Energy Tax Credits
  Homeowner's Guide to Solar Water Heating
  Ceiling Insulation for Your Home
For information about potential utility programs:
  HECO (Oahu): 947-6937, www.heco.com
  HELCO (Big Island): 969-0127
  Kauai Electric: 246-8280
  MECO (Maui, toll-free): 1-888-632-6786
For more energy efficiency information:
  U.S. Department of Energy, Energy Efficiency
  and Renewable Energy Network: www.eren.doe.gov
  U.S. Environmental Protection Agency,
  Energy Star program: www.energystar.gov
  American Council for an Energy
  Efficient Economy  www.aceee.org
  Alliance to Save Energy  www.ase.org
For recycling information:
  City & County of Honolulu: 692-5410
  County of Hawaii: 961-8083
  County of Kauai: 241-6891
  County of Maui: 270-7880
  Clean Hawaii Center, www.hawaii.gov/dbedt/ert/chc
This document has been catalogued as follows:
Hawaii. Dept. of Business, Economic Development and Tourism.
Energy Resources and Technology Division.
  Hawaii homeowner’s guide to energy, comfort and value.    
  Honolulu: 2002
  1. Dwellings-Energy conservation-Hawaii.
TJ163.5.D86.H31.2002
This document was prepared with the support of the U.S. Department of 
Energy, Grant DE-FG51-97R020881 and DE-FG51-02R021337. Any 
opinions, findings, conclusions, or recommendations expressed herein 
are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of, nor 
constitute an endorsement by, the U.S. Department of Energy, the State 
of Hawaii, nor any agency or employee thereof.
The measures in this booklet will help develop a home 
that meets the levels in the Hawaii BuiltGreen
TM
 Home 
Program rating system. Contact the Building Industry 
Association of Hawaii for more information (847-4666, 
ext. 210; www.bia-hawaii.com).
Printed on recycled 
paper with soy- 
based inks