Thinking about building a custom home, but wondering how to make it efficient? Making a custom home efficient is actually a lot simpler than you might think. Updating your current home to “green” standards or even improving the efficiency of the home can be quite costly. However, a few modifications to your custom home plans can make a custom home efficient without changing much.
High-Performance Windows
Protective coatings and improved window frames add a lot to a home’s energy efficiency. While it may seem like a simple addition, high-performance windows block ultraviolet sunlight, which keeps heat out in the summer, and they retain heat more efficiently during the winter months.
High-Quality Insulation
Again, high-quality insulation may seem like a simple thing, but having properly installed and inspected insulation in your floors, walls, and attics ensures even temperatures throughout the house. A few other key features and benefits of high-quality insulation include reducing energy consumption and increasing comfort through the home.
Passive Solar Gain
Believe it or not, the position of a custom home on the lot can increase or decrease the home’s efficiency. By taking advantage of natural elements like trees, you can naturally block out sunlight that heats the home when you are trying to keep it cool.
ENERGY STAR Appliances
When it comes time to select the appliances for your custom home, you want to choose ENERGY STAR rated ones. When it comes to making a custom home efficient, these appliances will go a long way. Look for washers, dryers, microwaves, and refrigerators with the little yellow sticker on them.
Tankless Water Technology
One of the biggest energy sucks of any home is a hot water tank. While you may not think about it, a water tank can eat up 17% of your home’s energy. Instead of storing all of that hot water, use a tankless water heater that sends instant hot water throughout your home while also reducing the energy needed for hot water.
Programmable Thermostats
Another huge energy efficient opportunity is advanced, programmable thermostats. While setting the temperature is always helpful, thermostats can now be monitored from smartphones and come with sensor technology. The sensor technology can be used to measure occupancy and read individual room temperatures, both of which help you monitor and control where heat and air are being used.
Interested in how you can make a custom home efficient? The expert custom home builders at Hamilton Homes are excited to talk with you! We’ll discuss everything from your custom home ideas to making your home energy efficient. Let’s get started!
