Learn how to make your custom home more energy efficient.
Energy efficiency is the way of the future, as home builders are now required to follow building codes that advocate for appliances and design elements that save energy. Building your new home with energy efficiency in mind not only benefits the environment by lowering your carbon footprint, but it also helps to make your home more comfortable and allows you save a significant amount of money on energy bills every year! Continue reading for a few tips on how to make your custom home more energy efficient.
Appliances
One of the simplest ways to make your home more efficient is to choose the right appliances. When designing a custom home, you have the option to select every appliance for every room, from the refrigerator to your washer/dryer. Work with your builder to choose Energy Star-rated appliances for better efficiency. Energy Star-rated appliances not only use significantly less energy than other models, but many states also offer incentives and tax rebates for utilizing appliances that are rated for efficiency.
Windows
There are many energy-efficient windows to choose from that have insulating glass to prevent significant heat transfer into or out of your home. In addition to the insulating glass, a major factor of efficient windows is the frame. Fiberglass and vinyl window frames are good insulators, as have air cavities that can be filled with insulation. Wood window frames also insulate well, but they are not the right choice for every home as wood expands and contracts in extreme temperatures. Look for Energy Star windows for your custom home- the Department of Energy states that these windows will help lower your energy bills and save money as compared to single-pane or double-paned clear-glass.
Water Heater
You may not think much about your water heater, but choosing the right one can save you hundreds of dollars in operating costs in the long run. The average American uses up to 100 gallons of water a day, and a large portion of that can be hot water. While the traditional storage water heater costs about $350 a year to operate, while an on-demand water heater costs closer to $220 a year to operate. Over time, the $130 difference will quickly add up and earn your significant savings. These water heaters are installed at the location of the water flow and only heat the water when you need it, which eliminates the need to keep stored water at a high temperature.
Insulation
Choosing the right insulation is a crucial decision, as it can make your new home much more energy-efficient. When your home is not well-insulated, your heating or cooling systems have to work much harder to keep the inside temperature consistent. However, if you choose an insulating material will the highest R-value (the rating of the thermal resistance) you will reduce energy loss and save on heating and cooling costs.
Build Your Dream Custom Home With T&G Builders
T&G Builders, located in Berlin, MD, has been a premier waterfront custom home builder and home improvement contractor serving Worcester and Sussex Counties for over 25 years. We are a locally owned and operated business known for our uncompromising commitment to quality, our passion for using innovative technology and premium materials to complete projects, and our exceptional attention to detail. In addition to building custom homes, we also specialize in remodeling your current house into your dream home! Our skilled team can assess your needs, determine the right design for your addition or improvement, and complete the entire construction process.
To see what your dream home could look like and receive a free home design, contact us today! Don’t forget to follow T&G Builders on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Houzz.