When it comes to building a new home, it’s important to consider energy efficiency. Not only can energy efficiency help reduce utility bills, but it can also help reduce the impact of the home on the environment. For those looking to build an energy efficient home, there are a few tips to consider when creating a house plan.
Choose the Right Home Site
Where the home is built can make a big difference in energy efficiency. It’s important to consider the climate, the terrain, and the orientation of the home. For example, a home built on a site that is prone to cold winters should face south to take advantage of passive solar gain. Additionally, a home built in a region with hot summers should have good shading to block radiant heat gain.
Choose Energy Efficient Materials
When selecting materials for the home, it’s important to choose those that are energy efficient. This includes materials for the foundation, walls, roof, windows, doors, and insulation. For example, choosing insulated concrete forms (ICFs) for the foundation can help reduce energy loss. Additionally, using energy efficient windows, doors, and insulation can help reduce the amount of energy needed to heat and cool the home.
Include Energy Efficient Features
When planning the home, it’s important to consider energy efficient features. This includes things like efficient HVAC systems, solar panels, LED lighting, and appliances. Additionally, features such as passive solar design and natural ventilation can help reduce the need for mechanical heating and cooling systems.
Consider the Local Building Codes
When creating an energy efficient home plan, it’s important to consider the local building codes. These codes can help ensure that the home meets minimum energy efficiency standards, such as the International Energy Conservation Code (IECC). Additionally, local building codes may require certain features such as solar water heating or photovoltaic systems.
Hire an Energy Auditor
Once the house plan is complete, it’s a good idea to hire an energy auditor to evaluate the energy efficiency of the home. An energy auditor can provide valuable insight into areas where the home can be improved and can help ensure that the home meets local energy codes. Additionally, an energy auditor can help identify opportunities for additional energy savings, such as improving insulation or upgrading appliances.
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