Energy-efficient Homes

While there is some expense in starting the construction with high-quality materials, these costs quickly pay for themselves in countless ways. Energy-efficient windows work to minimize excess heat when it’s hot outside and to keep heat inside when it’s cold out. Energy-efficient appliances provide the same benefits while using less power to operate. Items such as these allow the home to stay comfortable and running smoothly with lower monthly energy bills and less stress on the local power grid. Installing low-flow toilets and efficiency plumbing allows for the home to use less water and recycles the water for further use in the home. Some homes are plumbed for used water from sinks to be run into the toilet for secondary use, or for water from the home to be irrigated to water the local landscape. Thoughtful design and planning allows the home to minimize monthly water bills while also helping to conserve a valuable natural resource. Many green homes also utilize alternative energy sources such as solar panels, which further reduce the home’s dependence on the local energy grid and lower energy costs.