How to Build Energy Efficient Homes?

Energy Efficient Homes

Energy efficient homes contribute towards protecting our environment and save a lot of big bucks. From big installations such as solar panels to something as tiny as switching off the lights can help reduce the carbon footprint of your homes. Here are some simple steps to build energy efficient homes -

Insulating homes

Add temperature insulation to the attics, walls, ceilings and windows of the homes. This might require weather stripping the windows and doors and sealing off openings to prevent cold drafts or heat waves. Keeping the interiors insulated from external environment keeps the room temperature steady, warm and comfortable. Further, you will require less of air conditioning with perfectly insulated home designs. It is a onetime investment that would reduce the monthly electricity bills and prove to be a cost effective arrangement thus reducing your carbon footprint.

Replacing incandescent with fluorescent

When it comes to lights, switching to fluorescent bulbs can result in considerable amount of energy saving. Though fluorescent bulbs cost more than their incandescent counterparts, they are much more durable and help you save in the long run. You may also use a mix of incandescent and fluorescent for a better lighting effect at a nominal price.

Solar panels

Solar panels are the most revolutionary installations for energy efficient homes. Using solar energy, that costs you nothing, will help you generate your own electricity! Some of the most powerful solar panels can even support heavy appliances like air conditioners and water heaters.

Windowing

Another innovative design, triple glazed windows can help homes with more solar gains and better insulation. These windows control the amount of light entering the interiors and have also been proved to have positive health effects on residents. As opposed to skylights (that are a barrier to complete insulation), window glasses can act as a source of natural lighting and temperature regulation.

Landscaping

While laying out the floor plan, focus on specific areas of the home that does better with sunlight during winter and shade during summer. Deciduous trees will allow light of the winter sun while providing shade during summers. Similarly tall trees will provide shade to the ceiling/roof but allow lights to enter at window heights. The location of these trees is also important. Take advantage of the topography and the surrounding vegetation while constructing a new home.

Getting green is the hottest trend in home building today. Further with rising costs of living and environmental degradations, energy efficient homes are becoming even more popular. There are several others things that people do to make their home energy efficient. One just needs to be open to ideas and be creative while designing his dream home.

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by Sridhar Kulkarni via Shriram Properties Bangalore