Are you in the market for a new home? If so, you may be wondering if it’s worth it to build a custom home. After all, there are so many different options available to you! But one of the best things about custom homes is that they can be made to be more energy-efficient than traditional homes. Here are four ways that you can make your custom home more energy-efficient.
1. Proper insulation and sealing
Insulation is one of the most important factors in making a home more energy-efficient. It helps keep the warm air in during the winter and the cool air in during the summer. If your home doesn’t have enough insulation, you could be losing a lot of energy through the walls, ceilings, and floors.
In order to ensure that your home is properly insulated, you need to have an insulation contractor come out and do an inspection. They will be able to tell you where your home needs more insulation and what type would work best.
Sealing up cracks and crevices around doors and windows is another important way to make your home more energy-efficient. These small gaps can let a lot of air escape and make your HVAC system work harder than it needs to.
2. Properly size your HVAC system
This is another important factor to consider when trying to make your home more energy-efficient. If your HVAC system is too big or too small for your home, it will not work as efficiently as it should. A system that is too big will cycle on and off frequently, wasting energy. A system that is too small will not be able to keep up with the demand and will also waste energy.
It’s critical to hire a contractor to conduct a load calculation on your HVAC system to determine the proper size. This analysis considers the size of your home, the weather, and the kind of insulation you have.
3. Use energy-efficient appliances
Another way to save energy and money is by using energy-efficient appliances. Several different types of appliances fall into this category, including refrigerators, dishwashers, washers and dryers, and ovens.
Most newer models of these appliances have earned the Energy Star rating. This means that they meet certain efficiency standards set by the EPA. Using an Energy Star appliance can help you save up to 30% on your energy costs.
4. Practice creative landscaping
Landscape can also help make your home more energy-efficient. Properly placed trees and shrubs can provide shade and insulation in the summer, while properly positioned fencing and walls can block wind in the winter.
A well-designed landscape can help regulate the temperature in your home and save you money on your energy bills. It’s essential to work with a qualified landscaping contractor to get the most out of your landscape design.
According to studies, recent building codes implemented have resulted in 17% more energy efficiency in newly constructed residences. So if you have the opportunity to build a new home, go for it! You will be helping the environment and your wallet. To learn more about how you can make your home more energy-efficient, contact us today.
