Green Building

Curb Your Temper(ature)
Every degree you lower the thermostat in winter and raise it in summer can reduce your heating and cooling bills by 1 percent or more. Install an automatic, programmable thermostat (they typically cost $40 to $100) that allows you to set specific temperatures for different times of day. For example, in winter you don't need it as warm when you're sleeping, and in summer you don't need to cool the house while you're at work. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the device can save you about $150 a year.

No Pane, No Gain
Replacing single-pane windows with Energy Star qualified dual pane low-e windows can reduce your heating and cooling needs by close to one-third! Give your doors the once-over, too; an air-trapping door sweep costs about $15, is easy to install, and can reduce the air that escapes through the gap between the bottom of your door and the floor.

These steps will save you money and increase the comfort of your home. They are also better for the environment because lowering your energy use means less air pollution from power plants.

Upgrade your insulation! 

We will be giving our house a facelift, painting the interior, adding recessed lighting and replacing fiberglass insulation in the attic. We'd appreciate recommendations for "green" interior paint that is durable. Also, we will install recessed lighting on the ceilings - any recommendations for energy-efficient light fixtures (other than the "Energy Star" brands)? And, is the denim insulation a fire hazard? If not, what is it treated with to prevent it from being a fire hazard?  Thanks in advance for your responses.