What place does legislation have in the greening of our homes?
That was the question running through our minds when we read a bit of news over at the Huffington Post. According to HuffPo, Hawaii is now requiring that all new homes be outfitted with solar hot water heaters.
Obviously, we love solar hot water heaters (according to the article, the heaters should save homeowners at least $50 a month on electric bills).
i think way to go. yeah, it sucks now to have to dig up the cash, but they'll be thanking the city soon enough, be it next month or next year.
view hipersons's profile
To be fair, this is only a requirment for new home construction; doubt this is affecting someone who is struggling to own a home in Hawaii. Besides, you will most definitely reap the benefits in energy savings to cover the extra cost of installation.
view vertigo's profile
I looked into passive solar water heaters recently, and from what I've read on-line, I gather that unless you've a large enough heat sink they tend to warm the entire house. Which would be convenient in winter where I live, but a royal pain in summer.
view Eucritta's profile
Case studies in California have shown that buyers are willing to pay a premium for homes with energy saving amenities. They will pony up for the costs involved with the features and still pay extra for the privilege. (homes involved were in the same tract development so the test was head to head on homes with the same floor plans)
view slipperymarshmallow's profile
i've never heard of the heat sink problem, there was a passive heater in the house i grew up in, and even in the summer with 100 degree heat it stayed cool enough inside to not need the a/c (it cooled down at night and the windows were opened and then shut again in the morning before it got warm).
view CaliinFrance's profile