How to Build an Energy-Efficient Home That Will Save Money Down the Road

Nowadays, one of the biggest trends in real estate is transforming old houses into energy-efficient homes or building eco-friendly homes from scratch for two main reasons: to care for and protect the planet and to save money down the road. We are witnessing that energy costs are rising, and it is hard for the environment to keep thriving, so it is time to do something on our own that will help preserve the planet and improve our living conditions. 

As a result, energy-efficient homes are the real winners when maximizing energy efficiency and saving over time. Here are ten practical tips on building an energy-efficient home, ensuring you have all the information necessary to make informed decisions that will pay off in the long run.

 

  • Embrace All-Electric Living 

There have been many advancements in renewable energy, and we can see how electricity is generated from solar, wind, and other renewable sources, making electricity much more accessible. So, it is a wise idea to design your home to rely solely on electricity, thus eliminating the need for gas hookups. As a result, you will reduce your carbon footprint and support a cleaner environment. In addition, you will align to future trends where fossil fuels are phased out.

 

  • Install Heat Pumps 

Heat pumps are a real game changer in home heating and cooling. They are incredibly efficient, operating by transferring heat rather than generating it, which dramatically reduces energy consumption. What is even more interesting is that they work well in different climates, providing both heating and cooling options. There are also hybrid heat pump systems for water heating that help cut water heating costs by up to 70%.

 

  • Leverage Smart Lighting Systems

A great addition to an energy-efficient home is the smart lighting system. With their sensors that adjust the lighting based on occupancy and natural light levels, you can ensure you use them only when needed. The voice control and customizable scenes add convenience while reducing energy waste. LED bulbs consume significantly less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs, so it is another win for the lighting options for the home.

 

  • Integrate Smart Home Technology 

There are lots of devices nowadays that use smart home technology and AI to enhance energy efficiency. For example, thermostats learn the schedule and adjust temperatures automatically. Plus, they can track your consumption patterns, which can lead to substantial energy savings. In addition, implementing smart plugs and power strips will eliminate phantom loads and contribute to lower energy bills.

 

  • Make Use of Solar Power Systems 

Solar power systems convert sunlight into electricity, thus reducing and even eliminating reliance on the grid. You can also pair solar panels with battery storage to ensure you have power during outages, making your home even more resilient and self-sufficient.

 

  • Maximize Insulation 

When you insulate your home, you will always maintain a steady temperature. Insulating walls, roofs, and floors to the highest possible R-value will keep your home warm in the winter and cooling in the summer. First, you must do a blower door test to ensure no wall gaps and optimize your home’s thermal and below.

 

  • Install Double-Paned Windows

Another feature that an energy-efficient home must have is double-paned windows. They reduce heat loss in winter and heat gain in summer. The amazing fact is that they cut energy usage by up to 50% compared to single-paned windows. If you want even better performance, the option of windows with argon-filled gaps and low emissivity coatings will further enhance insulation.

 

  • Implement a Rainwater Collection System 

For water conservation purposes, you need to implement a rainwater collection system. Simple systems can divert drain water to the garden, thus reducing the need for treated water for irrigation. More advanced systems can even fill the rainwater tank for household use, thus reducing the dependence on municipal water supplies.

 

  • Choose Long-lasting Roofing Materials 

Durable roofing materials like metal, tile, or recycled plastic are a great investment choice as they will reduce the need for frequent replacements and repairs. These materials also come with extended warranties and contribute to energy efficiency by reflecting heat and reducing cooling loads.

 

  • Landscape for Energy Efficiency 

Landscaping improves curb appeal, but thoughtful landscaping can also impact a home’s energy efficiency. For example, planting strategically will provide natural shade, reducing cooling costs in the summer. Using native plants and efficient irrigation systems will minimize water usage.

 

The Role of Property Managers 

Property managers are professionals who handle everything around properties, from maintenance to upkeep. They are also well aware of the energy efficiency trend in real estate and have valuable insights about how to make homes more energy efficient. Their expertise in energy-efficient technologies and practices can help homeowners make informed decisions and implement the best strategies for the long term. 

Other tasks that property managers successfully do include handling the installation of smart home devices and coordinating with contractors for energy-efficient renovations. If you leverage the expertise of these professionals, you can achieve high levels of energy efficiency with minimal hassle.

 

To make your home energy efficient takes a lot of planning and investment, but the long-term is substantial. Use the tips outlined above in the text and leverage the expertise of property managers to create a home that will reduce your environmental impact and save you money down the road.

 

 

Peter Minkoff

Peter Minkoff

Peter is a lifestyle writer at HighStyleLife magazine, living between Europe and Australia. Follow Peter on Twitter for more tips.
Peter Minkoff

@MinkoffPeter

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