Creating the Energy Efficient Home

Conserving energy is a challenge for us simply because we have become so used to our electrical appliances, we can’t imagine life without them. However energy efficiency in homes doesn’t mean cutting back so drastically that we can’t keep warm or we have to grope around in the dark! We can make our house energy efficient by being smart in our use of electricity or gas and eliminating wastage wherever we can.

If you are thinking of building a house then this is the right time to consider how to make your house energy efficient by creating a sustainable building. To do this properly it may be necessary to employ a “green architect” to design your house. This will be expensive initially, but you’ll soon recoup your costs in future energy savings. A green architect will combine an aesthetically pleasing appearance with, energy efficient design to create a home you will be proud to call your own.

If you already own your home and wish to make it into an eco friendly home, then there are a few design changes you can incorporate. Triple pane windows prevent any leakage of heat or cold. Insulation in the roof is a must to keep your heating and cooling costs to a minimum, while energy efficient heating and cooling appliances will further help.

Shop for green appliances wherever possible, for instance there are energy efficient dishwashers, fridges washing machines and lightbulbs available. If you have a water heater with a tank, you can wrap it in insulating material to better keep the heat in. You can do the same with your hot water pipes.

Make sure all the outside doors in your home fit well and put weather stripping around them to prevent any draughts. Install a water saving shower head in the bathroom. This will not only save water but also electricity used on heating the water. Use the washing machine only for full loads and use cold water.

As you can see there are many ways to conserve energy, however by far the best idea is to use alternative energy. This is becoming quite popular and more available. There are kits you can buy but it’s actually quite easy to create your own solar panel or wind turbine and create your own power for free.

This is the way I have chosen to go. It wasn’t as difficult as I though it may be and believe me, it was very well worth it!