The homes profiled in “Mainstream Green” have most of the following green features in common. Use this list as you look to buy or renovate green.

1. Energy Efficiency

• All lights, windows (double-glazed, low-e panes), insulation, whole-house and ceiling fans meet the EPA’s ENERGY STAR efficiency criteria.
  
• Appliances: Refrigerators, water heaters, washing machines and dishwashers are ENERGY STAR-rated.
• Air conditioning is ENERGY STAR and high-SEER rated.
• PV (photovoltaic) rooftop panels produce renewable solar energy.
• Water is heated through a solar water-heating system.
• Roof surfaces reflect light and heat, reducing the need for  A/C.
• Clotheslines or racks are provided for drying laundry

 2. Water Efficiency

• Homes have Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Water Sense, low-flow or dual-flush toilets.
• Homes have EPA Water Sense or low-flow faucets and showerheads.
• Rainwater catchment and irrigation systems save and recycle water.
• Permeable outdoor surfaces keep groundwater healthy and circulating.
• Water-efficient laundry and dishwashing machines save water.

3. Resource Efficiency

• Smaller, less sprawling homes consume fewer resources in building and use
• Recycled/reused and/or rapidly renewable (e.g. bamboo) building and decorating materials.
• Home design is tailored to natural local climate.
• Ventilation/cooling uses prevailing wind direction.
• Plentiful windows/skylights provide daylighting.
• Deep overhanging eaves and awnings shade windows and deflect the sun’s direct heat.

4. Indoor-Air Quality           

• Windows open, letting in fresh air and discouraging growth of mold.
• Exhaust fans in bathrooms provide extra ventilation.
• Low- or no-VOC paints, finishes, composite/pressed woods, carpeting and pads prevent harmful chemicals from leaching into the air.

 5.  Lot Design, Preparation and Development

• Existing trees are preserved.
• Homes are landscaped with native vegetation and/or low-water, climate-appropriate plants.
• Residents compost food waste and grow food on-site whenever possible.

6.  Education on Operation, Maintenance and Living

It’s a lifestyle! The builders are making it easy by teaching the owners how to use green features to maximize their savings. The home should be maintained using green cleaning and pest-control products free of toxic synthetic chemicals.