A fantastic guide which could help you save energy in your home is available online - and it's free!

Green Building Operations and Maintenance Manual: A Guide for Public Housing Authorities was developed to be of use to public housing authorities in the USA, but it contains guidance on sustainability, energy saving, and eco-friendly practices that can be advantageous to any building owner, big or small (building that is, not owner).

The manual covers all aspects of energy saving and water saving measures, addressing best practices relating to heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems, plumbing, lighting, landscaping and recycling.

And, if you’re the owner of a public building or work in one in a caretaking role, it also offers suggestions as to how you can engage residents and encourage them to participate in improving the community in which they live.

The manual has been jointly developed between the US Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and Siemens Industry, Inc. And Green Seal, Inc.

Mike Kearney, senior director for Siemens, said; "For the first time public housing authorities and building owners have access to a peer-developed source that provides practical, actionable guidance in an easy-to-use format that transcends the ‘how’ and reveals ‘why’ these recommended actions are important for the longevity of the housing developments they manage.

"Over time, the practices outlined in the manual will help both residents and their surrounding communities improve their quality of life."

You can get your free copy at greeningpublichousing.com.

[Image: phototouring]