The growing trend of building energy-efficient homes across the globe is inspiring more people to consider energy-efficient designs and eco-friendly materials for home building and renovation.
Reducing the amount of energy your house consumes can lead to reduced utility bills and effective and affordable living. When designing a house, it is important now more than ever to incorporate energy-efficient features for long-term cost savings. While achieving a completely self-sufficient and zero-energy home seems far-fetched (although possible), you can still equip your house with materials and interior and exterior design that optimizes energy efficiency.
Focus on Orientation
Believe it or not but the orientation of your house is very important. Positioning your home correctly ensures it will take the best possible advantage of sun and shade throughout the year. If you want the sunlight to beam through your windows for a longer time, consider having a north-facing living room. Sunlight will keep your home naturally warm and well lit, which means less use of heater and lighting.
Ventilation
To maintain healthy indoor air quality, install windows and keep them open from time to time if not throughout the day. Make sure to install exhaust fans in areas of your home that are more prone to odour and moisture like the bathroom, kitchen, and laundry room.
Choose your Door Wisely
A sliding door is an excellent option to save energy. The sliding doors can create consistently tight seals that prevent heat transfer, thus improving their energy efficiency even further. Sliding doors not only save energy but can also look stylish. It can divide a large space and turn it into two rooms, allowing you to make your space more functional and practical.
Energy Efficient Hot Water System
Install an energy-efficient hot water system that is smart enough to reduce your bills. While choosing an energy-efficient hot water system, consider the following factors, household size, storage system, and budget. Out of date, hot water systems can be a huge burden on resources so, explore a modern technology that saves energy.
Incorporating Solar Panels
There is nothing better than harnessing naturally generated energy that operates with low-running costs and reduces electricity bills. Solar panels provide one of the most cost-effective forms of renewable energy for a home. Installing solar panels on your roof can power all the energy needs of a home including lighting, heating, and cooling systems, appliances, and hot water.
When it comes to saving energy, you should also consider glazing and shading windows, installing solar-operated or energy-efficient appliances, and well-controlled ventilation.
