If you have made the decision to build your new dream home, incorporating energy efficient features form the outset will not only reduce your future energy bills, but you will have the added benefit of knowing you’re doing your bit for the environment. At Metronest Homes, we are committed to crafting a home that is custom-made for you, whilst promoting affordable and durable environmental solutions in residential design and construction. Here’s 8 design features which can help improve the energy efficiency of your new home.
Construction Materials
Higher density materials such as bricks, concrete, and stone provide sufficient thermal mass to absorb and store heat, and when used effectively can stabilise temperature shifts within a home by slowing the rate of heat transfer. A stable internal temperature means less reliance on heating and cooling which will result in significantly reductions in utility bills.
Double Glazing
Up to 40% of a home’s heat can be lost, and up to 85% of its heat can be gained through windows and doors. Double glazing is the ideal solution for creating an energy efficient home, particularly if you have large expanses of windows. Double gazing is such an effective insulator that it can reduce your need for artificial temperature control. This design feature can decrease your power bills by more than 20% compared to single-glazed windows while also helping the environment.
Skylights
Strategically placed skylights and sky windows can increase natural lighting into internal spaces, reducing the need for artificial lights during the day. Consider placement carefully to ensure you are not allowing excessive heat into the house during the hot summer months.
Lighting
Use LED lights and globes throughout your new home. LEDs use much less energy to provide the same amount of light as other forms of lighting. Not only do they minimize energy use, but they provide exceptional light output, are extremely long lasting and contain no mercury. Additionally, they can meet a variety of lighting needs from bright white light to soft, warm illumination.
Cross-Ventilation
Positioning windows to allow for cross ventilation will ensure cool breezes can flush out warm summer air that’s built up during the day provides a natural cooling method and minimises the need for air conditioning. With cross ventilation only two minutes of fully opened casement windows are necessary to exchange the whole air in a room – An easy way to save energy, reduce heating costs, decrease environmental impact, and increase indoor comfort.
Appliances
Appliances can account for around 25% of home energy use, so choosing the most energy-efficient appliances is vital. Look at the energy star rating when selecting your dishwasher, refrigerator, washing machine and dryer. Energy-efficient appliances reduce a home’s energy use, emit less air pollution and can even increase the resale value of a home. It’s worth paying extra for more energy-efficient models as they will cost less to run.
Solar Panels
Solar panels provide one of the most cost-effective forms of renewable energy for a home. They can power all the energy needs of a home including lighting, heating, and cooling systems, appliances, and hot water. Installing a solar PV system in your new home will allow you to generate renewable energy and reduce your electricity bills.
The ultimate goal of an energy efficient home is to reduce wasted energy usage, and greenhouse gas emissions. It may also offer healthier, cleaner living conditions, as well as substantial financial savings in future.
Custom Home Builders with a Focus on Sustainable Solutions
If you are planning to build your new home and you would like to work with a team that is highly experienced and knowledgeable in the must-have design elements for an energy-efficient home, contact the team at Metronest Homes today. Reach out to us online or get in touch with us by calling 1300 510 733.
