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 | Build an Energy-Efficient Home |
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Design energy efficiency into your home at the start and the benefits will
pay off for years to come
Energy-Wise Design
Evaluate the building site to take advantage of climate and seasonal
changes. Is the home positioned on the lot to take maximum advantage of
natural sunlight, cooling breezes, and temperature changes?
Consider surrounding topography: Nestling the home among sheltering
hills, existing vegetation, and surrounding shade trees may create a natural
buffer zone, as well as keep heating and cooling costs down.
Insulate the foundation: To prevent energy loss, your home's
foundation should be as well insulated as your living spaces. Using thermal
mass materials, like concrete, brick, or packed earth, will keep your home
warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer.
Water
Talk to your contractor about installing your hot-water heater off the
kitchen or bathroom.
Not only will you minimize the distance that the water travels to point of
use, but also locating the tank in a warmer area of the home means it will
take less energy to heat it. Also, by simply installing low-flow faucets,
showerheads, and toilets, your household can easily save hundreds of gallons
of water per year.
Appliances
To select the best appliances for your home, start by taking a look at your
family's needs and matching those with the many models available. For
example, buying a refrigerator that's too large can waste energy and money;
on the other hand, one that's too small for your family adds up to extra
trips to the market.
Lighting
Use dimmer switches and motion-detector sensors on household lights to
extend bulb life and turn off the switches when that area of the home is not
in use.
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