Dear Jim: We are planning a full remodeling job of our master bathroom. We want it to be comfortable and contemporary, but also energy and water efficient. What products and design concepts should we consider? – Ann M.

Dear Ann: Bathroom remodeling is one of the most common, major home improvement projects. In addition to creating a relaxing, enjoyable room, it can substantially increase the future resale value of your home. If your budget is limited, just make gradual improvements over several years.

Other than kitchens, your bathrooms, especially master baths, are the greatest energy and water consumer in the typical home. In general, the most efficient new products and improvements also provide the best comfort.

The first item to consider is how to heat your bathroom. A gentle, quiet, yet rapid heating method is best. A combination of various types of radiant heat is the most efficient and comfortable option. These include wall and ceiling heating panels, cove and an electric warm-floor heating unit.

A radiant panel provides heat quickly without chilly breezes. It heats like walking into the sunshine. This allows you to keep the bathroom cooler when it is not being used for a large energy savings. It would be difficult to accomplish the same rapid quiet heating with forced-air heating units.

Electric warm-floor heating provides the ultimate comfort when you step out of a shower. It is ideal under decorative ceramic tile that will hold the heat. Since this does not provide instant heat, consider putting it on a timer. Turn it on only during high usage times in the morning and evening.

If you have ever used a towel warmer after bathing in a hotel, you know how great it feels. There are attractive brass, real oak wood and chrome plug-in, home-size models that mount on a wall or on door hinges to save space. Using one lets you set the bathroom air temperature lower to save overall.

Most people add a whirlpool or hydro-massaging, multihead shower when remodeling. Some five-head showers have a small pump that recirculates the warm water to reduce usage. A low-flow standard shower head is a must. Most new filtering heads remove chlorine with a KDF element and save water too.

Select one of the new super-quiet, automatic combination vent fan and lights. These have motion and humidity sensors to make sure that they do not run too long or too little. If you get up often at night, consider a model that also has a built-in night light. Many new models are decorative and ornate.

Install a low-water-usage toilet. One-piece models are most attractive. Pressure-assist designs provide a positive, quick flush, but are slightly noisier.

Write for (instantly download – www.dulley.com) Update Bulletin No. 910 – buyer’s guide of 14 manufacturers of efficient/comfort bathroom products: radiant heating, towel warmers, unique showers, whirlpools, toilets, quiet vent fans and ceramic tile. Please include $3 and a business-size SASE. Send to James Dulley, 6906 Royalgreen Drive, Cincinnati, OH 45244.