Energy Efficient Home Design
Renovators Place Columnist
Oct 08, 2009
Much has been written about the benefits of double-paned windows and insulation to improve energy efficiency. But do these systems really work? You could be losing all the benefits elsewhere. Taking a holistic, whole-home approach to energy efficient home design is the key.
Getting a truly energy efficient home design is a little like trying to carry water in a leaky bucket. It is all very well installing double-paned windows for example, but if you don't attend to your doors too, then you are wasting your money.
So next time you are thinking of renovating part of your home, think about your house as a whole and how energy efficient home design can help.
About the Author
Sarah Christensen is greatly experienced in home improvements. Sarah graduated from King's College, University of London with a degree in Chemistry and Business Studies.
Ways to Improve Energy Efficiency
- Replace windows with draft-proof windows
- Replace doors with draft-proof doors
- Upgrade or add loft and wall insulation
- Apply insulation to hot (and cold, to prevent freezing) water pipes.
- Use energy efficient light bulbs, which use only 20% of the energy that normal ones do
- Use heavy drapes to reduce cold drafts in winter and keep out the sun in summer, reducing heating and air conditioning costs
- Replace appliances with new appliances with a high energy efficiency rating--you might be surprised at the difference between seemingly similar brands
- Don't leave equipment on standby when not in use--switch it off; this has the added bonus of reducing the risk of a fire breaking out
- Turn off lights when you leave a room
So next time you are thinking of renovating part of your home, think about your house as a whole and how energy efficient home design can help.
About the Author
Sarah Christensen is greatly experienced in home improvements. Sarah graduated from King's College, University of London with a degree in Chemistry and Business Studies.
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