The term “energy efficient house design” has recently entered the lexicon of both architects and homeowners. People are now more environmentally conscious and want to save money on energy. They want homes that look good and function sustainably.
As a modern-day citizen, you should also consider incorporating energy efficient homes features in your new build. You should consider features like proper insulation, solar panels, and LED lighting in your new home. You might also use sustainable materials and smart devices for added savings.
But how will all these features fit into your home? Well, in this article, we will tell you everything about them. By the end, you will be able to make a smart energy-saving plan for your new build.
What Is Considered an Energy Efficient Home?
An efficient home is one that consumes less energy, emits fewer greenhouse gases, and uses fewer nonrenewable resources. Simultaneously, it improves living conditions and saves money.
Generally, an energy efficient home uses thermal insulation on the walls, ceilings, doors, and windows. Besides, it also uses renewable energy sources like solar panels and systems that store electricity. Such a home might also have technological solutions, such as
- Installing LED light bulbs
- Smart control systems that make the best use of energy
- Responsible appliances
Energy efficiency certificates show how well a building meets these standards. For example, every country in the European Union (EU) has a certification body that rates how efficient it is (A, B, C, and D).
At the moment, the LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certificate recognizes environmentally friendly buildings around the world. It does this by looking at things like location and water use. It also stresses new ideas for building materials and resources that are good for the environment.
10 Must-Have Energy Efficient Homes Features in Your New Build
Nowadays, saving energy should be the main goal of all home improvement projects. That’s because energy abuse is leading to global warming and pollution. However, not all homes can be called energy efficient, as we discussed above. You need to incorporate certain features. Here are some must-have ones:
1. Proper Insulation
Proper insulation is a key component of energy efficient house design. It keeps your home’s temperature stable all year. This reduces the need for extreme heating or cooling.
Poor insulation can cause mold growth, significant air leakage, and uneven temperatures. All these make the home uncomfortable and unhealthy.
You can strategically place the right insulation materials in your walls, roof, and floors to keep heat in during the winter and keep it out during the summer. These materials include natural fibers, fiberglass, and foam.
2. Sustainable Lumber
An energy efficient home should definitely use ethically sourced building materials. For example, reclaimed wood is an excellent choice for accent walls and flooring. At the same time, you can also think of sourcing other lumber from sustainable forests.
3. Solar Panels
If you want a greener, more sustainable energy solution, consider installing solar panels on your property. When properly sized and installed by a professional, solar panels can last for many years.
Here are some clever tricks that you can keep in mind to enhance the performance of your system:
- Optimize your energy consumption during the day to draw from solar power instead of the grid.
- Install the panels in direct sunlight, away from trees and neighboring properties.
4. High-Performance Windows and Doors
With modern technology, drafty and leaking windows and doors should be a thing of the past. Today, you can get energy efficient windows and doors with protective coatings and double-paned frames. Their materials are also more durable and need less upkeep.
All of these features work together to reflect summer heat radiation and retain winter heat. New windows typically block the harmful ultraviolet sunlight that stains carpet, furniture, and other home decor.
5. Cool Roof
A cool roof on an energy efficient home protects against solar heat gain. It keeps the house and attic cool. Such roofs reduce energy bills, improve indoor comfort, and extend roof service life. Tile, slate, or clay are good products for a cool roof because they have a low thermal mass and reflect sunlight.
Green roofs are also a great option for homes with flat rooftops and limited green space. Such roofs can range from working gardens to simple plant covers.
6. LED Lighting
LED light bulbs have greatly improved energy efficiency in home lighting. These bulbs are 75% more energy efficient than incandescent bulbs. Besides, some of them can be programmed to dim or turn off after a certain time or when no motion is detected.
According to the US Department of Energy, lighting accounts for approximately 15% of an average home’s electricity consumption. They also say that using LED lighting saves the average household about $225 in energy costs per year.
However, before installing LED lights, remember that they are more expensive than incandescent light bulbs. Nevertheless, they save money over time because they last up to 25 times longer.
7. Efficient Heating and Cooling Systems
Modern, energy efficient heating and cooling systems are intended to use less energy. Simultaneously, they maintain a comfortable indoor climate. For example, heat pumps and geothermal systems can significantly reduce energy consumption and costs.
8. Proper Ventilation
Indoor air quality is critical. Problems with the air quality can bring in harmful substances like dust, pollen, and pet dander. These can cause a wide range of health problems, from minor irritations like allergies to more serious conditions like asthma.
An efficient ventilation system provides fresh air while conserving energy. For instance, heat recovery ventilators (HRVs) and energy recovery ventilators (ERVs) exchange indoor and outdoor air while preserving the energy used to heat or cool.
9. Tankless Water Heaters
A traditional water heater has to keep a tank of water heated all the time, which in most homes is 40 to 50 gallons. A tankless water heater, on the other hand, heats water as it arrives from the main water source.
This device, powered by natural gas or electricity, heats water as it flows through a coil of pipes. It utilizes energy only when hot water is required. This makes it more efficient and lowers utility bills.
However, tankless water heaters can cost three to four times as much as full tank heaters. Still, they take up far less space and last roughly twice as long.
10. Smart Home Devices
Incorporating smart home design products can significantly help homeowners save money and energy. Besides, these products make their homes safer. Several popular smart home products for an energy efficient home include
- Motion sensors
- Programmed thermostats
- CO2 and other air-quality alarms
FAQ
Q. What are the Benefits of Energy Efficient House Design?
Ans. There are many advantages to energy efficient house design, such as.
- Lower energy bills
- A smaller environmental impact
- Better indoor air quality
- More comfort
It can also increase the value of your home and help to create a more sustainable future.
Q. Are energy efficient Homes More Expensive to Build?
Ans. Energy efficient features may increase initial costs. However, the long-term savings on energy bills frequently outweigh the initial investment. Furthermore, many government incentives and rebates are available to help cover these costs.
Conclusion
Without energy efficient features, your home will only be a place to live. It will ruin the greater purpose of serving the entire environment. Hence, you should definitely incorporate energy efficiency into your new build.
Try to use the natural resources as much as possible. Sunlight and ethically sourced materials can be really helpful. Besides, going for technological upgrades like LED bulbs or tankless heaters can reduce energy consumption.
No matter what feature you may want, the custom home builds at Black Dog Homes can make it possible. We will assist you in designing your ideal home for your lifestyle. Contact us today to get your new build done.