construction proves beneficial in creating the most efficient
homes for the least amount of money.
It’s important to note the differences between “
green-washing” and energy efficiency. You don’t have to have a
“green” home to be energy-efficient and help reduce your
carbon footprint and energy needs. Zero-energy homes
may not be considered green in all areas but tend to have a
much lower ecological impact in the long run than a “green”
building that requires imported energy and/or fossil fuels.
Building a Net-Zero Home
Energy efficiency starts at the base level in home construction, including site plan, passive solar energy, insulation
and energy-efficient appliances. According to Watt, “The key
is to create a well-insulated building envelope so your energy needs are as low as possible. After you have saved energy everywhere you can in the house and determined what
your energy needs will be, then it’s time to incorporate your
renewable energy source.”
Site Plan
It wasn’t that long ago (prior to central heating and air)
that homes were designed to capitalize on sunlight for pas-
sive heating and large porches to capture breezes to cool the
home. This same technology still exists today and is the first
step in creating an energy-efficient home. Orient the house
with its long axis running east/west and utilize daylight to
provide natural lighting.
Windows and Porches
Size south-facing overhangs to shade windows in the
summer and allow solar gain in the winter. Utilize large
porches to create shade for natural ventilation and reduce
the need for mechanical cooling. Consider window-glazing
techniques for different sides of the house. Use low U-value/
low-E in all climates and low solar heat gain (low SHGC)
windows in cooling climates.
Insulation
Increase foundation, wall and ceiling insulation. A well-insulated home drastically reduces the needs for heating and
cooling. Seal all holes and cracks in walls, floor and ceilings
to unconditioned spaces.
Appliances & Lighting
Look for EnergyStar® ratings when specifying and purchasing appliances. Consider tankless water heaters, as they
are one of the largest electricity consumers in the home.
&YQFSJFODF;UIF;BGGPSEBCMF;; FBTZ;HPJOH;MJGFTUZMF;PG;UIF;;;4PVUI;;
:PV;XPO±U;
LOPX;VOUJM;
ZPV;HP;
3471;GPS;'SFF;5SBWFM;1MBOOFS;&;%JTDPWFSZ;$FSUJ¹;DBUFT
Call 800-713-4263;UPEBZ;
3471;GPS;'SFF;5SBWFM;1MBOOFS;&;%JTDPWFSZ;$FSUJ¹;DBUFT
Call 800-713-4263;UPEBZ;
