WattSmartGlass
Walk with me through the 1978 home we just purchased in May 2013, and share the experience wearing the revolutionary "WattSmartGlass." WattSmartGlass is a pair of glasses that (in concept only...for now) overlays a computer display on what the wearer sees, and helps viewers "see energy savings like never before." In this case, we selected the "Big Ways to Save Energy" mode to show us how to save energy with our major appliances, water heater, insulation, and windows. (I planned to show actual products in the video that could be better choices, but didn't want to break any copyrights, so I went with generic 3D models, instead). One by one, we are trying to put the pieces together to make our home an entire efficient system that works together toward the goal of using energy wisely and living comfortably. For example, our original 1978 west-facing windows (before low-E glass or other temperature neutralizers) let lots of heat in, which makes the evaporative cooler work longer and harder. And, if we use the stove on warm summer days, the heat will likely rise to the second floor of the home, adding to the heat from the windows, and the demand for the cooler. New windows (beginning with the west-facing, upstairs ones), a solar-powered vent fan to blow hot air out of our attic, a tune-up for the cooler, and some outside barbecues, are just a few of the changes we're considering to help us keep the cool air in, and our energy costs down. Other energy upgrades are also planned.
