The demand for eco-friendly homes in Northern America is on the rise as more people seek to live an environmentally friendly lifestyle; however, since there are many things involved in making a home eco-friendly, it is important to work closely with a team of professionals, like the ones from Northwest Construction, when designing your new home to ensure that it will be as environmentally friendly as possible. Some of the different things that can be used to make a new home eco-friendly include:
1. Energy-Efficient Windows
Energy-efficient windows aim to prevent cooled and heated air from escaping. There are different types of energy-efficient windows to choose from including vinyl windows, e-coated windows, and double or triple glazed windows.
2. LED Lights
Lighting can contribute greatly to your energy bills. Fortunately, you can minimize lighting energy use by installing LED lights. Compared to CFLs, LED lights use less energy and can be used for various lighting needs. Plus, they last longer and do not contain any mercury.
3. Smart Home Technology
If you want to build a zero-energy home, then investing in smart technology is crucial. For instance, installing a smart or programmable thermostat can help keep your home at the right temperature throughout the day, which can make a great difference in your energy usage. You just need to program the thermostat, and it will automatically adjust the temperature at the desired time of day.
Investing in motion sensors is also a wise decision as this minimizes the chance of leaving lights on even when no one is in the room.
4. Solar Panels
Although solar panels are initially expensive, they have numerous benefits when it comes to energy efficiency. You can install solar panels to generate electricity and to heat hot water for your home. In the long run, you will notice a drastic drop in your energy bills. Installing solar panels can also help you qualify for tax incentives and they can increase the value of your home.
5. Energy Efficient Appliances
Another way to make your home eco-friendly is by using energy-efficient appliances. Appliances account for a large percentage of household energy bills in most Canadian homes. Energy-efficient appliances use less water and electricity and will help you save a huge amount of money in the long run.
If you would like to learn more about what makes a new home eco-friendly, or if you are interested in our home building services, please contact the team from Northwestern Construction today.