Everyone wants an energy efficient home these days. Between saving the planet and saving money, what’s not to like about energy efficient homes? The real question is what makes a home energy efficient? Here are six signs of an energy efficient home.
- Insulation– Although it’s a bit hidden, insulation is definitely something you want to check for if you’re looking for an energy efficient home. Insulation is one of the best ways to keep your thermostat at a steady temperature no matter what the weather is like outside. There are two ways to find out what kind of insulation is in a house. First, you can simply ask the seller. If you’re buying a new construction home the builder should be able to tell you, and if it’s an older home the home inspector might be able to find out for you. If that doesn’t work, try looking in the attic. Unless it’s a finished attic, the insulation should be visible.
- Appliances– One of the biggest draws on the electric bill will be your appliances. Washers, dryers, refrigerators, and even TVs can have a huge impact on the overall energy efficiency of your home. The Energy Star stamp of approval is a great way to tell if the appliances in a home are energy efficient or not.
- Windows– Much like insulation, windows can either really increase the efficiency of a home or really decrease it. Old windows are notorious for letting money fly out of the house. Upgrading windows is a great way to make sure your home is energy efficient.
- Light Bulbs- It might not sound like a big deal, but light bulbs can have a big effect on the utility bill. Using compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs) can save three-quarters of the electricity bill compared to traditional incandescent bulbs. CFLs also last a lot longer, so you’ll save money for on the electricity bill and on light bulbs.
- Landscaping- One surprising energy saver is landscaping. Planting deciduous trees on the west side of the house will block the hot sun in the summer and allow sun through in the cold winter when it sheds its leaves. It can be hard to measure the exact savings of this method, but it’s still a viable way to make a home energy efficient.
- Furnace- An old furnace can be one of the biggest drains of energy efficiency in a home. Older furnaces with standing pilots can waste up to 35% of the fuel you put into it. Most new furnaces only waste 10% of the fuel, which typically saves around 27% on a heating bill.
There are plenty of other ways to make a house energy efficient, and these six are a great start. If you’re looking for a new construction home that is highly energy efficient, call Perry Hood Properties.