A little planning goes a very long way and nowhere is that truer than in home construction. Today’s green homes don’t just conserve energy, they also help owners save money without sacrificing comfort or durability.
Homes are more energy efficient than they’ve ever been, and owners can decrease their energy costs in several ways. Here, we’ll offer a few tips on energy-efficient home construction.
Soak Up the Sun
Solar panels and other options can help create more efficient homes. If the area receives plentiful sunlight during the year, panels or a solar shingle roof system will significantly reduce energy spending. These systems require little maintenance, making them a one-off investment and a big step toward self-sufficiency.
Solar panels and shingles are eco-friendly options that convert solar energy into electricity, cutting harmful emissions and decreasing global warming. Once these panels are installed, energy can be used to light the home, heat water, and warm or cool air.
Location, Location, Location
When building a more efficient home, location is a primary consideration that determines the structure’s cooling and heating requirements. Maximizing solar energy gains during winter and reducing them during the summer is ideal, and the goal is typically achieved by optimizing the home’s landscaping, orientation, and location.
These strategies make a big difference, allowing owners to enjoy consistently comfortable temperatures year-round. With lower heating and cooling requirements, as well as the right location, your home’s energy, heating, and cooling requirements will naturally decrease.
Seal the Building Envelope
People everywhere protect their phones and laptops by using cases and covers. Building envelopes work in much the same way, serving as protection for the outer structure. The building envelope is one of a modern home’s most important energy systems, as it protects owners from moisture, heat, and harsh weather. With the right insulation, you’ll keep your home comfortable while conserving energy.
Ventilation
A solid ventilation system provides comfort while conserving energy by minimizing the use of heating and cooling systems. Home ventilation also removes contaminated air, and green home designs must ensure natural and healthy ventilation.
A ventilation system is a crucial part of an efficient home design because it moves moisture, heat, and air through the building envelope. When these systems are properly designed, they minimize energy usage and make homes more efficient.
Efficient HVAC
The Department of Energy estimates that cooling and heating account for nearly 49% of energy usage in the average home. HVAC systems are some of a home’s biggest energy consumers, and installing efficient models will help homeowners save energy and money.
The installation of a heat pump may reduce heating-related electricity usage by 50% or more compared to a baseboard heater or a furnace. When choosing an HVAC system for a new home, choose one with a high SEER rating.
Energy-Saving Devices
With recent technological developments, homeowners have gained access to smart devices that can help them optimize energy usage. These devices use very little power compared to traditional appliances, lowering utility bills and helping owners stay comfortable. With smart appliances and devices, property owners get short- and long-term returns on their investment.
Follow These Tips for Greater Efficiency
Along with these tips, homeowners should also take steps to minimize electricity use. Turn lights, HVAC equipment, and appliances off when no one is home, and use energy-efficient building methods to save energy and decrease the family’s carbon footprint. While efficient construction methods may come at a higher initial cost, they bring long-term financial and energy savings.
