Tuesday, July 22, 2014

Building an Energy Efficient Home

Many factors go into building energy efficient homes so as to provide comfort, reduce costs and optimize energy performance. There is no excuse to being conscious about the environment with so much information at our fingertips.

One chooses to build a green home so as to cut on the harmful effect on the environment. Consideration and careful thought has to be placed on each part of the home design right from the foundation to the roof and everything in between such as air quality and electrical design. Green Energy Solutions has procvided us with a list of things to consider : 

Home exterior
A combination of high performance energy efficient windows, properly installed insulation and air sealing work as part of an integrated system to reduce monthly energy bills, lower maintenance costs, improve durability and increase overall comfort of the home. The house is carefully air-sealed against gaps and cracks on areas around wiring and lighting, ducts, vents, and pipes. Also round doors and windows are also air-sealed. Heat is kept out during summer and in during winter by the use of energy efficient windows. Thermal bridging is reduced by a layer of firm foam added to walls.

Water Management System
Plans on water management assist in lessening the likelihood of water damage and increase foundation durability as well as assist in air quality and comfort of the home. The foundation is protected from underground water by moisture-resistant barriers. In addition, the home is designed in a way such that water keeps flowing away from the foundation. Showers and area behind tubs are made from moisture resistant materials. Carpets are not used in kitchens and bathrooms

Solar power
An energy efficient home cannot be complete without the use of solar power for functions such as heating of water and generation of electricity for appliances. When buying a solar power system always consults a professional so that your home total energy consumption is calculated.

Energy Efficient Appliances
Energy STAR appliances such as dishwashers, refrigerators, washing machines, ceiling fans are about 30%-50% more energy efficient.

Mechanical Ventilation, Cooling and Heating
High efficiency ventilation, cooling and heating systems offer premium performance and a quitter home. Attics are insulated with ducts reduce energy loss.
When building energy efficient homes one can use eco-friendly products on the cabinets, counters, flooring, and roofs. One can also use natural products such as recycled glass, granite, concrete, bamboo or recycled wood. The key point is that the materials should be eco-friendly.




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