Tools & Calculators

Tools:

Sketchup
Download the free version of Google’s Sketchup – a fantastic 3D drawing tool.  Many architects and builders are finding the free program a great way to share ideas with clients electronically.  And because it is so easy to use, homeowners can easily amend the design to include their own graphical elements.

Home Energy Efficient Design (HEED) free software
Designers & builders looking for an easy-to-use software program to refine residential designs for energy efficiency should check out this free program downloaded from the web.  The program is based on comparing a user-defined case study home to two “conventional” homes.

Energy Monitoring, the Wave of the Future
This article explains how energy monitoring devices can help homeowners understand their energy usage in real time which will not only allow them to realize the full potential of their energy efficient products & systems but also make them aware of their habits.

Calculators:

Carbon Footprint Calculator
The Carbon Footprint Calculator uses information about your daily activities to calculate your contribution to global warming.

Solar Energy Calculator: Is Solar Right for Me?
Calculate your annual savings and home value appreciation by going solar anywhere in the country.

Home Energy Saver
Energy audit tool that will provide a complete picture of all energy-consuming equipment in your home.

Energy Star Home Energy Yardstick
Compare your home’s energy efficiency to similar homes across the country and get recommendations for energy-saving home improvements