Energy Efficient Home Building - A Question of Choice & Design, Not Cost

">energy using products that you put into it. The
Forget the environment for a moment if you will.best homes create their efficiency from scratch
Let's talk turkey. What's going to get you to dowith techniques and products properly applied and
whatever you can to make your home the waydesigned into the home from the beginning.
you want it? You need to know what is mostThere are several things to incorporate when
important to you in the long run.building an energy efficient home:
Make it personal. How does it benefit you? Can
you answer the following question?1. The home's exterior (including walls, windows,
Question: What makes for an energy efficientdoors, and insulation) should not allow heat or cold
home?in or out.
Answer:2. Heating and cooling systems should be high
Energy efficiency is all about eliminating waste andefficiency systems delivering maximum value for
maximizing the return on dollars spent for energy.the energy used
As kids, we got scolded if we left outside doors3. Solar, wind and other natural and replenishable
open too long during hot or cold days. We wereresources should be used where possible
told to turn off lights we weren't using. And to4. High quality and efficient appliances & light
close the refrigerator door.fixtures can reduce the amount of energy
But, energy efficiency in our homes is moreneeded for them to operate.
involved than just keeping doors and windowsEnergy efficiency is not only the conscientious
closed. It involves design, construction methods,thing to do but it saves money in the long run.
efficient materials and quality systems that useJust make sure it fits your construction budget.
less energy.Making choices that fit your needs and budget, will
Energy Efficiency is not Just About Yourcontrol the up front costs and maximize your
Dishwashersavings on energy bills over the years.
An energy efficient home is a result of the wayNow, isn't that a better way to go?
the home is built as much as it is a result of