An energy efficient home is not only better for the environment but can also save you hundreds off your energy bill each year. But creating an energy efficient home isn’t always as simple as swapping appliances or adding in some window covers (though both are still helpful). If you’re looking to renovate or build a new home, there are a few things you can add to the design which will dramatically increase energy efficiency and increase your comfort. Take a look at some of our top energy efficient house ideas below for ways you can create the ultimate green home.
Energy efficient home ideas
Energy efficient home ideas #1: Solar power
Installing solar powered energy and water systems will allow you to generate renewable energy and significantly reduce your energy bill. This investment may take a few years to pay off, so it’s worth it if you see yourself living in the property long term. Solar panels can process up to 22% of the sun’s rays into energy and uses less water while producing no greenhouse gas emissions.
Energy efficient home ideas #2: Insulation
Having your home’s walls, ceilings and floors filled with insulation can help to dramatically reduce your energy bill, as you won’t have to rely as much on cooling systems – in fact, it can reduce your bill by up to 40%. Insulation also has the added benefit of dampening noise, as the insulation acts as an additional layer between rooms.
Energy efficient house renovations #3: Window glazing
As windows are the most vulnerable entry points for cool air, using a double-glazing coat can reduce heat loss up to 50% more than a single glaze window. The space between the glass acts as a thermal barrier and helps to maintain a regular temperature throughout the home. this can help reduce energy bills by up to 20% as you won’t have to keep you air conditioner circulating for as long during those cold winter months.
Energy efficient house renovations #4: Rethink your house plan
The concept of a green home is still fairly new, which means most homes don’t have energy efficiency in mind with their design. An energy efficient house plan may involve the orientation of the home and the way it’s facing, using recycled or natural building materials and energy efficient appliances. Be sure to chat with a home renovations Brisbane builder to see if they have experience building energy efficient homes and ask for examples of their work.
Energy efficient house ideas #5: Orientation and shape of floor plan
The layout of a house can greatly affect the way air flows through a home. For example, Queenslanders are designed to not only withstand floods but are also known for how they trap cool air due to how the house is raised – which is great for warmer climates but difficult during the winter. Depending on where you live, the way your home is positioned, and the floor plan can significantly impact how well heat or cold air is retained. Be sure to discuss with your builder how best to position your home to maximise energy efficiency.
Need help creating an energy efficient home?
We hope you’ve enjoyed reading our article on energy efficient home ideas. Contact Award Winning Group today to chat with one of our North Brisbane builders about creating a home that’s not only environmentally friendly but one that will save you a lot on your energy bill. You can call us on 0423296698 or request a quote online and we’ll be in touch shortly.