At Eco Sustainable Home Designs, we’re so passionate about building energy efficiency home design that don’t cost a fortune to run. We’ll explore everything you need to know to design a sustainable, comfortable home that saves you money for years to come.
Why Energy Efficiency Matters
Before we get into the details, let’s look at why energy efficiency is so important for your new home.
Save Money
An energy efficient home costs much less to operate every month. We’re talking thousands in savings over the lifetime of your home! Who couldn’t use a little extra cash in their pocket?
Stay Comfortable
An efficient house keeps you cool in summer and warm in winter, without wild temperature swings. No more sweating or shivering in your own home!
Reduce Environmental Impact
Using less energy is better for the planet. Your efficient house will have a smaller carbon footprint and help fight climate change.
Increase Resale Value
Lots of homebuyers prioritize efficiency. An energy savvy home will have a higher resale value down the road.
Enhance Durability
Efficient materials stand the test of time. Drafts and moisture damage? Not in your house! Fewer repairs mean lower costs.
With benefits like these, it’s a no brainer to optimize for efficiency. Now let’s look at how to make it happen.
Design Principles for Efficiency
Here are three key principles to follow:
Maximize Insulation
Proper insulation keeps heat inside during cold winters and outside during hot summers. Focus on insulating the building envelope – exterior walls, attic, foundation.
Some top insulation options:
- Spray foam
- Rigid foam boards
- Fiberglass batts
- Cellulose
- Mineral wool
Consider the R-value as well as air sealing quality, installation, and preventing thermal bridging.
Use Natural Heating and Cooling
Take advantage of free heating and cooling from the sun and outside air. With the passive energy efficiency home design, you won’t need as much mechanical heating and cooling.
For example, South facing windows let in winter sun while overhangs block high summer sun. Strategic landscaping provides shade. Operable windows facilitate cross ventilation.
Choose Efficient Systems
Select high efficiency HVAC systems, appliances, lighting and more. Look for ENERGY STAR rated products to reduce energy use.
For heating, heat pumps and high-efficiency natural gas furnaces offer big savings. Place ductwork within conditioned space.
Now let’s look at picking the right building materials…
Selecting Efficient Materials
The materials used in your home’s construction impact energy use. Follow these tips:
Use Renewable Materials
Choose sustainable options like bamboo, recycled content tile, and fast-growing or reclaimed wood. Stay away from rare old growth forest wood.
Utilize Thermal Mass
High density materials like concrete and stone absorb heat during the day and release it slowly at night. This evens out indoor temps.
Opt for Low VOC
Low VOC (volatile organic compounds) materials like paint and carpet improve indoor air quality.
Energy Saving Features to Include
Beyond materials, specific energy efficiency home design features can improve efficiency:
Energy Efficient Design Features to Include
Beyond materials selection, let’s look at specific design elements that enhance efficiency.
Triple Glazed Windows
Upgrade to triple paned windows with advanced low-emissivity coatings. This improves insulation and solar heat gain potential.
Triple glazing creates multiple air cavities and reflective coatings to recapture infrared energy. This cuts heat loss through the windows by 25-45% compared to double pane.
Effective Air Sealing Package
Sealing cracks, gaps and penetrations prevents drafts, moisture issues and conditioned air leakage.
Prioritize sealing the exterior building envelope, attic, whole house ventilation connections, and recessed light housings.
Use quality caulk and spray foam around openings. Install weather stripping on doors and attic hatches.
Continuous Ventilation System
Fresh filtered air improves indoor air quality and reduces humidity. Look for a dedicated whole house ventilation system.
Heat recovery ventilators (HRVs) or energy recovery ventilators (ERVs) are ideal. They temper incoming fresh air using the conditioned air being exhausted.
Let’s Discuss Your Dream Home!
I hope this overview gives you some great ideas for your new energy efficient home. When thoughtfully designed, an efficient home provides comfort, savings, and sustainability.
Reach out for a free initial consultation. We are happy to discuss your goals, plans, and dreams for your ideal home.