Top 5 Green Home Building Ideas

Pollution is increasing, resources are dwindling, and energy efficiency has never been more important. With the global population expecting to surpass a staggering eight billion people by 2050, it’s clear that we need to live in a much more sustainable manner. One way to do this is to opt for a green home building. In the last few years, building a green home is shifting from an “alternative” way of building to the mainstream.

Planning to build a new home? If so, here are our top 5 green home building ideas to consider.

HVAC System

Did you know that heating and cooling are your biggest utility expense? According to the U.S. Department of Energy, the typical US family spends at least $1,000 annually on energy bills. Choosing an Energy Star rated system can help reduce this bill significantly. On average, expect to improve your energy efficiency by nine percent.

Lighting

Lighting accounts for 15% of a typical household’s electricity bill. With so much energy budget going toward electric lighting, energy efficient lighting can be a real cost saver. It’s advisable to install LED bulbs for your home’s lighting. Not only are they 80% energy efficient, but they also last 25 times longer than traditional bulbs.

Windows/Doors

Insulation is really playing a huge role in green homes. You can take your home to a new level of energy efficiency by properly insulating walls, windows, and doors. Today’s Energy Star rated windows are manufactured with optimal glass packages, energy-efficient frames and advanced technology for high-performance levels. It’s important to remember that not all Energy Star-rated windows and doors are created equal. So, pay attention to compare the efficiency between different models.

Roof

Roofing materials can make a dramatic difference in your home’s energy efficiency. Green roofing can not only reduce your heating and cooling costs but can also extend your roof’s lifespan by over 200%. In addition, green roofs can also reduce air and noise pollution, mitigate the urban heat, improve water quality, and improve stormwater management. However, installing a green roof isn’t cheap. Luckily, there are many options to choose from, so choose one that you can afford.

Energy Efficient Appliances

It’s estimated that above 20% of the total energy consumption in an average American household is due to the use of electrical appliances. By using energy rated appliances, it’s possible to reduce this cost substantially. Beyond saving on energy costs, energy efficient appliances also provide other benefits. For one, they are more convenient. They require less repair and maintenance. Also, did you know that using such appliances can earn you tax benefits? When building a green home or renovating your home, use high energy efficient appliances. Energy efficient appliances include dryers, computers, refrigerators, freezers, dishwashers, and more. By using these, you stand to save up to 30% on electricity bills.

The above tips were provided by Karen from Advantage Realty, a local property management firm here in Tampa. By implementing these top 5 green home building ideas, you’ll be actively contributing to saving the environment. And, equally important, you will have a lower electricity bill at the end of every month.