While “go green” may have been a growing trend, it has become a necessity of late. People are becoming aware of the growing menace of pollution in the name of infrastructural development. The purpose of eco-friendly green homes is to reduce carbon footprint.
We have curated a simple guide explaining energy-efficient homes if you’re new to this whole trend. Read to find out how these are different from traditional homes.
Energy Efficiency
By the definition of energy efficiency, any home can be energy efficient regardless of whether it’s modern or old. With modern construction, however, new homes are more energy-efficient. Older homes can be upgraded to boost their energy performance.
Here are the features of an energy-efficient home:
1. Comfortable and Harmless
An energy-efficient home is comfy and free of hazards. The insulation fills gaps, which means that it’s cooler in the warm season and warmer in the cold season. Modern eco-friendly homes have great air quality and ventilation systems, which creates a perfect atmosphere inside the home. Not too dry or too humid. Additionally, a programmable thermostat makes managing temperature easier even when residents are not home.
2. Less Costly
Energy-efficient homes have a high EnerGuide rating. These homes are airtight to prevent air infiltration. They use renewable energy such as solar power to produce electricity and heat. High-efficiency cooling and heating equipment keep the utility costs low.
A good builder will guide you to fit low-flow accessories to manage water consumption. All in all, while energy-efficient homes are equipped with environment-friendly amenities, what makes houses energy efficient is their residents.
3. Eco-Friendly
All the energy-efficient homes are environment-friendly. These homes are built to reduce energy consumption and carbon footprint. Any material used in construction and maintenance is responsibly acquired and used to shrink carbon emissions.
4. Value Adding
The upgrades and fixtures of an energy-efficient home are aimed to add value. The resale value of an energy-efficient home is also considerably high because of the sustainable amenities. Energy-efficient lighting, equipment, and appliances save cost and enhance property value. In essence, an energy-efficient home is a green home that renders a high return on investment in the long run.
5. Energy Star
Energy Star is a program introduced by the U.S. Department of Energy and Environmental Protection Agency to determine the energy efficiency of material, equipment, products, and appliances. An energy-efficient home utilizes material that is Energy Star-rated, such as water heaters, cooling systems, building material, lighting fixtures, fans, and heating systems.
6. Home Plan
The planning of eco-friendly, energy-efficient homes undergoes multiple planning and construction phases to optimize results. The passive solar system is part of the plan to ensure that energy is produced without mechanical devices. Alternatively, these house systems have cool roofing material, glazed windows, and overhangs to reduce the need for air conditioning further.
You can build your own green home using green home design and energy-efficient materials. At GH Builders, we offer environmental-friendly construction services from planning to finish. We also offer inspections, honest advice, and fixed-price contracts so enjoy the experience of building a green home from start to end. Get in touch with us today!
