The Homeowner's Energy Handbook

Starred review from April 15, 2013

We all want to lower our energy bills, but alternative energy can be a bit daunting. This great manual is a fantastic introduction to what's possible and practical. Energy auditor Scheckel (The Home Energy Diet) makes the topic approachable. The first third of this intelligently organized book covers techniques for making existing homes more energy efficient before moving on to address solar, wind, and hydro energies as well as biofuels. All chapters feature how-tos, and the text is complemented by simple illustrations. Included are case studies exemplifying both good and bad experiences with alternative energy use. VERDICT Chock-full of practical advice and realistic assessments of alternative energy, this book is superior to others on the topic due to its accessibility, organization, and balance. Homeowners can easily pick and choose from projects without fear of becoming overwhelmed. Highly recommended.

Copyright 2013 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

February 15, 2013
As energy prices rise and the pressure grows to wean ourselves from climate-damaging fossil fuels, interest in energy efficiency and off-the-grid living is growing. Drawing on his extensive expertise as a home-energy consultant, Scheckel has crafted a masterfully clear and accessible guide to incorporating power-saving strategies in the home for anyone with the time and ambition to follow them. The first half of the book focuses on improving home-energy efficiency, including recipes for conducting your own energy audit, retrofitting windows and basements to prevent leakage, and wiring the home for monitoring gas and electric usage. The second, more-challenging half covers the installation of alternative energy devices such as solar hot-water heaters, windmills, and hydroelectric turbines. The most eye-opening chapter here is one on biogas, a novel fuel source derived from decaying food and animal waste. With plenty of lucidly written instructions, well-drawn illustrations, and user-friendly sidebars, Scheckel's manual is an indispensable reference for library how-to sections and homeowners hoping to cut the cord from their corporate power suppliers.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2013, American Library Association.)