(NAPSA)—Keeping your home comfortable doesn't have to mean costs that go throughtheroof. Here's a look at someof the latest technology that can be seen in a model homedesigned to showcase energyefficiency, The New American Home (TNAH), created by the National Association of HomeBuilders Leading Suppliers Council. TNAH 2014 uses green building and construction technology, including a solar water heater, photovoltaic panels and closed spray-foam insulation. Oneof the moreeffective energy-saving componentsis also one ofthe least expensive:sealed electrical wall boxes. problem for most homeowners is that theelectrical boxes on exterior walls let drafts in. In response, electrical components manufacturer Thomas & Betts has come up with a clever way to eliminatethis energy drain. The Carlon Draft-Tight boxes feature a gasketedfront flangethat provides a seal from the box to the back of the drywall and gaskets over cable-entry points to prevent airflow from getting into the house. This saves heating costs in winter and cooling in the summer. It can also reduceconstruction costs. Sealed electrical wall boxes can make your house more energy efficient. By eliminating the need to caulk or seal the boxes after installation, the builder can save about five hours ofinstallation time for a 2,200-square-foot house. The designis also available for ceiling boxes and multigang outlets, and can be put in alreadybuilt homes as well as new ones. You can find these boxes at home improvement centers or talk to your electrician about having them installed. For further information on these energy-saving devices, go to www.tnb.com/receptacles.
