When constructing new homes and residential buildings, contractors know they add value by paying particular attention to sustainability. New homeowners looking to reduce their carbon footprint and energy costs are likelier to choose a builder committed to using sustainable practices. In this article, we’ll share eight ways eco-conscious builders can make today’s homes more energy and cost-efficient – from installing eco-friendly Energy Star appliances to your selection of recyclable access doors and panels like Cendrex Stainless Steel Flanged General Purpose Panel,
Tip 1: Install Energy-Saving Appliances
Using energy-efficient appliances is one of the best ways to make your home more environmentally friendly. Look for devices with an Energy Star label, which indicates that they meet energy efficiency requirements established by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in the United States. Switching to more energy-efficient equipment can considerably lower monthly energy expenses and overall carbon footprint.
Tip 2: Regulate Temperatures with a Programmable Thermostat
Build in cost savings and lower monthly energy expenditures with a programmable thermostat to regulate the temperature based on the homeowner’s schedule. It’s a great way to ensure comfort at a lower cost. The thermostat will automatically lower the heat when nobody is at home and adjust itself to a more temperate setting when occupants are in the house.
Tip 3: Choose LED Lighting
Another great way to reduce monthly energy bills and consumption is by opting for LED lighting, which uses over half the energy as incandescent. In fact, the US Department of states, “Residential LEDs — especially ENERGY STAR rated products — use at least 75% less energy, and last up to 25 times longer than incandescent lighting.”
LED bulbs produce no heat or UV emissions which can damage your eyes. They last longer than traditional light bulbs and offer better environmental performance too!
Tip 4: Install Low-Flow Fixtures
Low-flow fixtures use less water while maintaining sufficient water pressure. Using less water lowers bills and helps preserve this precious commodity. Installing low-flow showerheads can reduce water consumption by as much as 40%. The energy needed to run the water heater also goes down. That translates to lower water and energy bills for the homeowner!
Tip 5: Improve Insulation
Many alternate insulation products can lower the carbon footprint. Environmentally friendly, sustainable options include polystyrene, aerogel, sheep’s wool, denim, and cork. Eco-friendly cellulose insulation is a top choice for green builders; its main composition is post-consumer recycled paper. The manufacturing process uses 30Xs less energy than mineral wool or fiberglass insulation production!
Tip 6: Go Solar
Solar panels offer a sustainable and cost-effective way to generate electricity, reducing reliance on the grid and minimizing carbon impact. By harnessing clean, green, renewable energy, solar panels provide a safer, low-maintenance solution that helps decrease monthly electricity bills.
Moreover, solar panel lighting is an excellent addition to consider. Despite the initial investment, these systems incur no ongoing energy costs, enabling homeowners to recover their initial outlay over time. Importantly, selecting a professional solar provider near you is crucial. Local providers have better insight into regional weather patterns installation requirements and can offer tailored solutions and support, ensuring your solar energy experience is optimized for your specific location. This local expertise not only enhances the efficiency of your solar setup but also contributes to the local economy, making it a win-win choice.
Tip 7: Use Sustainable Materials
Many general contractors are switching to mass timber products comprised of mechanically bonded softwood prefabricated for floors, roofs, and beams. By doing so, they reduce the depletion of natural resources and lower the carbon footprint compared with traditional construction materials. Eco-friendly materials like bamboo flooring and recycled glass countertops also lessen the impact on the surrounding environment while increasing property value. If you want to think outside the box – everything from straw bales to earthbags are used as green building materials – and don’t forget salvaged and recycled building materials as other eco-friendly solutions.
Tip 8: Install Recyclable and Energy-Efficient Access Panels
Cendrex Stainless Steel Flanged General Purpose Panels are incredibly sturdy, long-lasting, and recyclable. They provide access to areas behind the walls and ceilings concealing HVAC components, wiring, and plumbing and protect delicate instrumentation from potential damage. Access doors limit heat escape, improving energy efficiency and lowering monthly energy bills. They are also LEED V4 compliant and contribute to your ability to achieve LEED certification – a must for today’s green builders! Stainless steel is also corrosion and rust inhibitive ensuring durability over time.
Build Towards a Greener Future
Applying these eight tips will improve energy efficiency and sustainability and protect and preserve our environment. Adopting more sustainable practices can reduce energy and water expenditures and your carbon footprint. Whether installing energy-efficient appliances or using recyclable materials, we all benefit when we build towards a greener future. Be sure to buy from reputable eco-friendly suppliers recognized for quality products and sustainable practices.
