Build an Energy Efficient Home

Who doesn’t love a fresh start? Whether building a new home or renovating your current one to better fit your lifestyle, you’re working towards the house you’ve always wanted and a dream you’re passionate about.

It’s an exciting time and there’s so much to think about and do. But as you put your plan in place, keep in mind that this is the best time to build in the most energy-efficient features possible.

7 Smart Ways to Build in Better Efficiency

A little planning now can save you a lot of money later. And building in efficiency will give you peace of mind knowing you’re living in a home that cares about the planet. These tips can help.

Invest in insulation: Few factors influence the overall efficiency of your home like insulation can. Sufficient insulation in your walls and roof will prevent heat loss in the winter and keep your home cooler in the summer.

Open up to savings. The right windows and doors can make a world of difference. Quality matters! And make sure windows and doors are tightly sealed. Air leaks = more expensive bills.

Able appliances. Choosing low-energy appliances is a great way to design your house with an eco-friendly vibe. And don’t forget about the fridge! When planning the layout of your home, putting your fridge in a shaded zone helps keep the interior cooler, longer.

Paint with a conscience. Your paint choices say a lot about your personality, and your practicality. Lighter colors on walls and ceilings make rooms brighter, reducing the need for high-wattage bulbs.  

The high-tech of low-flow. Installing low-flow showerheads and appliances is the smart way to go. They offer plenty of pressure but only use a fraction of the water.

Daylight savings. Consider installing skylights in rooms with no windows. They let the sunshine in. And sunshine saves on lighting and heating costs.

Frequent fans. Ceiling fans throughout your new home provide an easy way to keep cooling and heating costs down. Remember, counterclockwise in the summer. Clockwise in the winter.

Curious what other things you can do to up the green factor in your home? Discover more ways to Live an Eco-Friendly Life.