The National Association of Home Builders offered a few homeowner tips on energy efficiency during the National Green Building Conference in St. Louis.

Install maximum insulation in the area to be remodeled.

Install high-efficiency windows instead of those that just meet the energy code.

Seal all exterior penetrations in the area being remodeled.

Purchase only Energy Star ®-rated appliances.

Install only low-flow water fixtures.

Upgrade to an Energy Star ®-rated water heater, or better yet a tankless water heater.

Purchase the highest efficiency HVAC system you can afford.  

For more information about remodeling, visit www.nahb.org/remodel.