Efficiency tips for new homes
Prioritizing energy efficiency when building a new home might cost a little more upfront but will pay off in the long run.
One way to save is to add energy efficient designs and equipment to your construction project. Consider adding these principles to your new home build.
Advanced framing techniques maximize the amount of insulated area and save on material costs in wood-framed homes. This technique can save up to $500 for a 1,200-square-foot home and $1,000 for a 2,400-square-foot home on material costs, between 3% to 5% on labor costs and up to 5% on annual heating and cooling costs, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. Choose a contractor who is familiar with these techniques, and check with your local building officials to ensure compliance with local codes.
The importance of a home’s orientation is often overlooked. According to the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors, homes oriented to the path of the sun use less energy for heating and cooling to reduce energy bills and improve comfort.
If you are building or buying a new home that doesn’t allow options for orientation or framing, you might be able to request higher insulation levels in the attic. Increasing the insulation levels likely won’t cost much more for materials and labor, but it can help you use less energy and save money in the long run.
Optimizing the efficiency of a new home requires a whole-house approach. Analyze all systems and how they work together to ensure maximum efficiency for a safe and comfortable home.
MAKE SURE THE SIZE IS RIGHT
Heating and cooling equipment should be properly sized for your new home using energy modeling tools that calculate the home’s heating and cooling needs. Investing in a more efficient building envelope that is well insulated and air sealed can reduce the home’s heating and cooling load, making it possible to have a smaller, less expensive heating and cooling system. This saves money on equipment costs and lowers energy use.
