The 100th Birthday is here! Over the past 5 years we have weighed the pros and cons of installing a high efficiency heat pump. There are many pros, including significant rebates, but the gas furnace is relatively new. Instead of replacing it right away we decided to install the heat pump in a detached building that we use as an office/music studio. It’s already making a huge difference, both in our electrical use and much improved comfort.
Now for the big news! We are now Pearl Gold + Solar certified! Pearl is a national program in partnership with the U.S. Department of Energy, the National Renewable Energy Laboratory, Energy Star, the REach program of the National Association of REALTORS®, the national Appraisal Institute, and BPI, the national Building Performance Institute. The purpose of the certification is to allow buyers and property appraisers a way to quantify how green and energy efficient upgrades increase the value of a home. The certification package includes the Appraisal Institute’s Residential Green and Energy Efficient Addendum which can increase a home’s value by 3 - 9%. It provides an easy way for future owners to understand the high performing aspects of our home and have the comfort of third party verification that this home is healthier, more comfortable, cleaner, quieter and will cost less to operate than similar homes.
