Energy efficiency is top priority in most people's lives today and this is the reason for the increased popularity in environmentally friendly homes. In fact, people living in these homes experience improved breathing conditions and reduced incidences of flu.
The first thing to do for an eco friendly home is it replace the ducting, heating and cooling systems with low emission and energy efficient stuff. Changes that can be made are like using corn burning furnaces instead of wood fireplaces, using solar water heaters and not electric water heaters and updating of the furnace with an energy efficient model.Use timers and dimmers to regulate your systems It is better to use electronic timers for turning these energy efficient models on and off, when required. It is also possible to save money by using lighting control systems like dimmers, timers and occupancy sensors.
You can improve the heating capacity of your water heater by wrapping it with a thermal blanket. To get increased air conditioning benefits, you can provide some shading for the air conditioner and install a programmed thermostat that adjusts setting automatically.Fill up all cracks and block air leaks. All cracks in the house have to be caulked, vapor barriers installed and energy efficient doors and windows installed. If you intend to sell your home, it is better to do all this about a year before the sale so that you can prove the energy savings through low heating bills.
It is also possible to improve energy efficiency of the home by improving insulation of attic, basement and exterior walls, floors, ceilings and heating ducts. This prevents hot or cold air from entering or leaving the room for increased cooling and heating.Similarly, block any possible air leaks in the form of holes and cracks n walls, windows and doors. Even ensure that there is no air leakage in your ducts.
Use modern windows for maximum lighting Lighting and ventilation have more emphasis today as homeowners turn to be more health conscious. There are more homeowners keeping Feng Shui elements in their homes and are using natural venting. Modern windows and vents are created to provide for maximum natural lighting, and make more use of solar heating. This is to ensure removal of contaminants from the room, reducing the build up of mold and mildew and to avoid using air conditioners.
With all these tips, you will soon be the proud owner of an energy efficient home that produces reduced energy consumption bills for you.
James Tyler is the owner of Ace Builders, a residential remodeling company serving the Raleigh, North Carolina area. Tyler writes about issues relating to all types of remodeling and home improvement projects.
For more information, tips and advice visit http://www.acebuilders.net
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