As you’re planning the construction of your new home, keeping energy efficiency a top priority from the get-go is essential. Not only will this help you save money on your monthly utility bills, but it’ll also be better for the environment.
Fortunately, there are several ways to make your home more energy-efficient, and many of them are relatively simple and inexpensive to implement. Whether buying demolished lots and building from scratch, or renovating an older home, here are some ways to create a more sustainable and energy-efficient home:
- Use Energy-Efficient Appliances
It’s no secret that household appliances account for a large portion of your home’s energy usage. These appliances can quickly add up, from your fridge to your washing machine, dryer, and dishwasher. Fortunately, there are plenty of energy-efficient models available to help you slash your appliance-related energy costs.
When shopping for new appliances, look for the ENERGY STAR label, indicating that the products comply to the stringent energy efficiency standards set forth by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This label means that the appliance uses less energy than its traditional counterparts without sacrificing performance. As a result, you’ll save money on your energy consumption and reduce your home’s carbon footprint.
- Add Insulation
Adding insulation is one of the best ways to make your home more energy-efficient. This approach will help keep heat from escaping in the winter and prevent your home from becoming too hot in the summer. There are several types of insulation available, so you can choose one that best fits your needs. For example, foam insulation is a good option for walls, while fiberglass insulation is best suited in attics. The key is to select insulation with a high R-value, indicating its ability to resist heat flow.
- Install Energy-Efficient Windows
Windows are one of the primary sources of heat loss in a home, so it’s vital to select ones that’ll minimize this energy loss. Energy-efficient windows are made with multiple layers of glass and argon or krypton gas between them, which helps insulate the home and keep heat from escaping. These windows can also reflect ultraviolet (UV) rays, keeping your home cooler in the summer.
In addition, weatherstripping your windows can also help keep heat from escaping. This involves sealing gaps and cracks around these openings with weatherproofing materials, such as caulk or foam sealant. Doing this will create an additional barrier against drafts and heat loss, reducing energy costs in the process.
- Consider Energy-Efficient Lighting
Lighting makes up an estimated 10% of households’ average energy usage, so switching to energy-efficient lighting options can make a significant impact. Meanwhile, compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFLs) and light-emitting diode (LEDs) bulbs consume around 75% less energy compared to traditional incandescent bulbs, and they also last up to 25 times longer. Therefore, making the switch can help you save money on your electricity bills and lower the frequency you need to replace your light bulbs.
When selecting energy-efficient lighting for your home, choose the right type of bulb for each location. For example, LED lighting is a great option for recessed lighting, while CFLs are better suited for use in lamps and overhead fixtures. This way, you can make the most of your energy savings.
- Install Solar Panels
Solar panels are an excellent way to generate renewable energy and reduce your reliance on the grid. This is especially beneficial if you live in an area with high electricity prices or are trying to reduce your carbon footprint. Solar panels can generate electricity, heat water, or both.
But, before installing solar panels, you’ll need to determine if your home receives enough sunlight, making solar panels a viable option. This is because solar panels need to be exposed to sunlight to generate energy. If your home doesn’t receive enough sunlight, you may want to consider installing a solar tracking system, which will help maximize the amount of sunlight your panels are exposed to.
- Opt For Smart Thermostat
A smart thermostat is another great way to make your home more energy-efficient. This device is programmable and can be controlled remotely, so you can set it to heat or cool your home only when needed.
When choosing a smart thermostat, selecting one with features that meet your needs could be the best choice. For example, some models have built-in WiFi so that you can control them from your smartphone or tablet. Others have features that allow you to track and monitor your energy usage, so you can make changes to reduce your consumption. Just ensure to program your thermostat correctly to maximize your energy savings. This way, you can keep your home comfortable all year long, without worrying about high utility bills.
Conclusion
A more energy-efficient home doesn’t have to be expensive or complicated. With careful planning and execution, you can make simple changes that’ll have a significant impact. By following the tips above, you’ll be well on reducing your energy usage while living in a comfortable and sustainable home.
