EcoCool cutaway house

So, let’s say you’re planning a few energy-efficient upgrades, or maybe you’re getting ready to gut your entire kitchen to bring it into this century. Where can you turn for reliable information on environmentally sensitive products and building practices? From my own experience, it has been a challenge to find a one-stop shop online that covers all aspects of home upgrades, whether for the sake of water efficiency, energy efficiency or indoor air quality. And it’s especially tough to find a site that brings together all the local resources out there that can help.

But then the EcoCool Remodel Tool came along – an interactive online tool that was developed late last year by King County. This tool is a virtual house where you can quickly click around to get tips on green remodeling and upgrades room-by-room. For every “tip” there is an opportunity to click for more in depth information, including a list of resources – from where to recycle your old fridge to where to buy recycled countertops to where to learn more about adding solar to your home.

The tool includes not only tells you what you can do and how, but also some reasons why you should. Tips and resources range from simple steps such as selecting healthy paint products or setting your thermostat, to what you should consider when replacing your furnace, upgrading your bathroom or landscaping your yard. The information was reviewed for accuracy by local green building pros and experts and will be updated on a regular basis.

Check it out and happy remodeling!