1 LUHomeowners change the inside of their homes in subtle or dramatic ways, but they often feel their exteriors are “set in stone.” What many homeowners don’t know is that there are incredible opportunities to “think outside” when it comes to exterior design. Smart pros, armed with the right knowledge and tools, can help a homeowner envision a new look for her exterior, and just as important, help her make it a reality. This educational unit offers knowledge, tips and tools to help pros and contactors generate leads, bridge the design gap with customers and close the deal on exterior design projects. This program is registered with NARI for 1 NARI CEU hour. Take the course.
- Posted:
- November 2012
- Subject(s):
- Remodeling Trends
- Sponsor:
- Exterior Portfolio
- Certification(s):
- NARI
1 LU HSW/SD/AIACombined Heat and Power (CHP) systems, as the name implies, serve dual purposes. First, they use a propane or natural gas generator to create electricity. The electricity produced from the generator is used by the home, reducing energy costs. If more electricity is generated than is consumed, the power can be sold back to the grid through net metering available in most states. Simultaneously, the heat from the engine is captured and used to warm the building or create hot water, further reducing energy costs. CHP units have been used in Europe for years and are now becoming more popular in the U.S. This courses is registered for the following education credits: 1 HSW/SD hour, AIA; 1 NAHB hour, 1 NARI hour. Take the course.
- Posted:
- March 2012
- Subject(s):
- Building Performance, HVAC, Energy Efficiency
- Sponsor:
- Propane Education & Research Council
- Certification(s):
- NAHB, NARI
1.0 LU HSWThis course will take a look at a study done on Energy, Environmental and Economic Analysis of Residential Water Heating Systems. This study provides an energy, environmental, and economic analysis of 11 residential water heating systems in 10 geographic locations throughout the United States, with emphasis on the performance of propane-based systems relative to alternatives. The objective of the study is to compare the different performance and economic characteristics of water heating systems to inform builder, contractor, and homeowner decisions on water-heater selection. Take the course.
- Posted:
- March 2011
- Sponsor:
- Propane Education and Research Council
- Certification(s):
- AIA, NAHB, NARI, USGBC
- 1.0 LU HSW
Navigating the seemingly endless number of codes influencing residential building can be daunting. This learning unit will address the primary sections in the IECC Energy Code, advanced efficiency programs and their implications as they relate to the use of propane. At the end of this course you will be able to identify the top regions in the United States where propane-fueled appliances are used in new homes, discuss the structure of the 2009 IECC - specifically the sections that impact propane in new single family homes and recognize the major compliance paths in the IECC. You will also be able to describe minimum efficiency requirements for propane-fired residential equipment and identify opportunities for the cost-effective use of these higher-efficiency systems. Finally, you will be introduced to green building codes and standards, including LEED for Homes and the National Green Building Standard, and will understand the overall role propane plays in earning points towards a home’s compliance. Take the course.
- Posted:
- March 2011
- Sponsor:
- Propane Education and Research Council
- Certification(s):
- AIA, NAHB, NARI, USGBC
1.0 LU HSW/SDThere are four main objectives in this course. First, you will be able to list at least three initiatives that are driving change in fixtures and water conservation. You will be able to describe how the requirements of the LEED program affect payback; also, you will be introduced to considerations for performance and maintenance of water saving plumbing products. Finally, we will consider how new faucet and plumbing technologies impact economics and water consumption. Take the course.
- Posted:
- March 2011
- Subject(s):
- Water Conservation, Plumbing
- Sponsor:
- American Standard
- Certification(s):
- AIA, NARI, USGBC
- 1.0 LU HSW/SD
Decisions on where and when to invest in residential energy efficient equipment can be tricky for a consumer, especially when it comes to paying a premium for higher efficiency equipment. This course focuses on the typical energy use for average single family detached households. Once you have completed this course you will be able to explain the difference between elective and non-elective energy efficiency measures (EEM) and identify the most beneficial EEMs in each of the five targeted climate zones covered. You will also be able to determine approximate payback periods for EEMs in your projects and to convey the costs and benefits of the EEM options to your clients. Take the course.
- Posted:
- January 2011
- Subject(s):
- Energy Efficiency
- Sponsor:
- Propane Education and Research Council
- Certification(s):
- AIA, NARI, USGBC, NAHB
- 1.0 LU HSW
Upon completion of this unit you will be able to describe the most common reasons for power outages in the U.S. You will be able to list the three main kinds of electrical generators available in the residential market and be able to identify the most reliable and appropriate fuel to power an electrical generator. Finally, you will be able to list factors that need to be considered before sizing a generator for a home, to ensure that it is safe and comfortable during power outages. Take the course.
- Posted:
- January 2011
- Subject(s):
- Energy Efficiency, Technology
- Sponsor:
- Propane Education and Research Council
- Certification(s):
- AIA, NAHB, USGBC, NARI
1.0 LU HSW/SDThis learning unit will explore the sustainable choices available for architectural wood doors. You will review the requirements for FSC certification, and how different core compositions qualify for LEED assistance. You will identify how increasing need for low-emitting products is impacting wood door manufacturers and sustainable veneer options. Take the course.
- Posted:
- January 2011
- Subject(s):
- Green Design, Windows, Doors, LEED
- Sponsor:
- VT Industries
- Certification(s):
- AIA, NARI
1.0 LU HSW/SDBy the end of this course you should be able to describe why daylight is an important component of sustainable design. You will be able to compare and contrast the different daylighting strategies available. You will also understand the minimum requirements for achieving LEED with daylighting and cite the specific ways that tubular daylighting devices can help projects earn LEED accreditation. Take the course.
- Posted:
- January 2011
- Subject(s):
- Daylighting, Energy Efficiency, LEED
- Sponsor:
- Solatube
- Certification(s):
- AIA, NARI
- 1.0 LU HSW/SD
By the end of this learning unit, you will be able to describe the history and current use of heating oil in the US. You will be able to identify which alternative fuel sources are available to current heating oil consumers, as well as be able to complete a heating analysis of alternative energy choices. You will be able to identify why propane is a superior alternative to heating oil. Finally, you will be able to explain considerations when converting from heating oil to another energy source and be able to find a propane retailer. Take the course.
- Posted:
- November 2010
- Subject(s):
- Water Heaters
- Sponsor:
- Propane Education and Research Council
- Certification(s):
- AIA, USGBC, NARI, NAHB