Energy efficiency is more than just a buzz-word, it is a crucial way to save money, improve the environment, reduce your carbon footprint, and live a more sustainable life. It doesn’t hurt that an energy efficient home also has higher property value than more traditional building styles.
Solar panels, design, windows, and even building orientation all play a role in the energy efficiency of your home or commercial building. By pulling together multiple elements, the overall energy efficiency is increased exponentially.
The Latest in Solar Panel Technology
Solar panels have become an indispensable element for every modern and energy-efficient household. These photovoltaic arrangements are used to generate electric power from sun rays which is useful to provide renewable energy for homeowners. Over the past few years, great advancements have been made in solar panel technology, such that their effectiveness and their ability to withstand wear and tear have improved drastically.
With solar panels, the home occupants will be able to save on electricity from the grid which translates to reduced costs of energy bills. In most situations, surplus power obtained may be transferred back into the grid which may help in getting credits, bonuses, or payments from the energy supplier. Environmental concerns are no less important since there are no greenhouse gases, or any other pollutants associated with solar energy generation.
Furthermore, solar panels installed on homes significantly improve their resale value by providing these attractive features to homeowners who think about current and future trends.
Modern Design
Appropriate building structure is critical for achieving energy savings, especially with the hot weather conditions in Texas. For instance, exceptionally high ceilings can allow for better movement of air which helps in improving the distribution of temperature indoors. Properly located windows and skylights will improve lighting in the house leading to a decrease in the usage of electric lights when there is daylight.
Keeping in mind that cooling in the Austin area is an important aspect to take into consideration, specific homes oriented in a north-south direction can be advantageous. This is advantageous in that the direct exposure of sunlight to one of the biggest wall areas during the hot afternoon period is reduced by controlling the amount of heat that is absorbed.
Some other elements that can help here are deep overhangs or pergolas built closer to the windows, or the walls that would also make the room cooler.
Another layout that improves energy efficiency is the open floor concept that helps in the movement of air from one part of the house to the other by aiding in the even distribution of air within the rooms. When this is done together with the intelligent placing of units for heating, ventilation and air conditioning equipment, the outcome will be maximized energy efficiency and heightened comfort.
Efficient Windows
Windows come out at the top in a list of elements that are directly involved in energy efficiency in the interiors of any house. In Texas, where controlling the amount of heat coming inside is mostly a concern, it is possible to save a lot of energy by using energy efficient windows.
Low-E glass or dual or triple-glazing units are the most energy efficient options. These are insulated windows comprising two or more layers of glass panes which are known to be effective insulators. Low-E glass transmits light and when it comes to heat, it will be refracted indoors in cool seasons and radiate inside during the winter season.
Another key factor is the position and dimensions of windows. With the right sizes and angles towards the sun, windows will let maximum daylight in while at the same reducing unwanted heat and get the right amount of light while maintaining energy efficiency.
Building an Energy Efficient Home in Austin, TX
Ambassador Builders has created this business venture as we appreciate energy efficiency when designing a home. Engineers work hard to include these energy efficient features in every custom home they build and we are always focused on exceeding your expectations when installing your solar panels, designing your home, or upgrading your windows so that your new house is not just built to showcase beauty but design complexity and the endurance embedded with it.
If you need more details on how we can assist you to build a dream home that is also energy efficient, reach out to Ambassador Builders at 512-387-6592. Get in touch with us and see how we can walk you through the entire process of making a custom-built home that is energy efficient and cost effective as well. energy efficient home austin tx