Who needs Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED)when a slew of energy savings strategies are effective enough for any house plan? Over the last half decade LEED design has become the standard for green building and living. The budget needed to build a LEED designed house plan is staggering and often cost prohibitive for the middle class family. Around the domicile, homeowners actualize an energy savings by instituting these energy wise tactics.

Chuck all incandescent light bulbs. These energy zappers expend more electricity then the light they emit. Not to mention, in comparison to the compact fluorescent light bulb, or LED, these light fixtures live an abbreviated existence.

Unplug any unused electronic goods. The toaster, coffee pot, and other fixtures employ phantom energy. By disabling all unused electronic goods, homeowners reduce the monthly bill up to 5 percent.

Engage in temperature control.. Programmable thermostats complement any house plan style. These temperature control devices enable occupants to set temperature according the home’s occupancy during the day. For the larger house plan, \some programmable thermostats have a zoning feature to cool or heat specific areas of the home.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the U.S. Department of Eneryg (DOE) endorse  the  ENERGY STAR .gov website, which reports that homeowners save a percentage for every degree below 68 degrees,

Exploit natural resources. House plans with a southern exposure benefit from the warmth of the sun during the day to draw in heat. When the sun goes down, lock out cold by
shutting window dressings.

Seal off draft. Older house plans are commonly drafty. Windows, door and even electrical outlets allow air to seep in. Apply clear plastic around windows. Visit House Plans and More.com for tips on sealing off drafts and staying warm and cozy this winter.

Opt for high efficiency appliances.  American homeowners access a resource of high efficiency appliances for the home (water heater, dishwashers, furnaces, and more) at ENERGYSTAR.gov. The featured manufactures have met specific guidelines to be certified as “high efficiency.”