The building efficiency ratio measures the efficiency with which a building uses energy and resources. So, it may be difficult to know where to begin when constructing an energy-efficient structure. Whether you’re looking to change your current residence or create an energy-efficient structure from the bottom, we’ve put together a list of five essential ideas to get you started. These tips not only affect your utility bill but also greatly impact your property’s value.
Focus on Insulation
The exterior envelope of your structure should be designed to reduce heating and cooling requirements. The insulation should ensure your building is as airtight as possible. This is possible in newly constructed buildings through non-traditional wall systems providing extra high-performance insulation.
So, changing doors and windows to prevent air leaks in existing buildings can be a wise investment.
Install Smart Thermostats
Autonomous thermostats are devices connected to conventional HVAC systems, ensuring the maintenance of energy-efficient indoor temperatures. They use the Internet of Things (IoT) to access Wi-Fi networks. Smart thermostats read local weather forecasts in real-time, modifying indoor settings and depending on external temperature differentiations.
Using natural weather patterns to maintain interior temperatures decreases an HVAC system’s energy consumption. The autonomous thermostats also attach to motion sensors, altering temperatures according to the number of occupants in a room. They can help people save money after business hours by turning off a system in an unoccupied building.
A building owner can remotely control these thermostats by connecting to their smartphone. They can also program their gadgets via cell phones, allowing them to schedule the thermostat regularly.
Upgrade to LEED
The Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design certification is a globally recognized rating system for building energy efficiency. However, LEED certification is not just about energy efficiency. It also emphasizes improvements in building location, occupancy comfort, indoor air quality, water conservation, and sustainable construction materials.
While achieving compliance can be more expensive when developing or renovating a building, LEED offers good opportunities for cost savings. So, utilizing LEED energy standards as a benchmark for mechanical systems can significantly increase energy savings and recoup investment in just a few years.
Make Thick Walls
Wall thickness and the choice of building material are interconnected with insulation to enhance energy efficiency. While it may appear apparent, thick walls act as energy regulators, gradually releasing accumulated heat from the day during more fantastic evening hours.
Concrete and brick are the best materials for climate control. Research indicates that houses constructed from 25cm bricks are most effective in maintaining room temperatures at 15-17 degrees. If your project budget permits, a custom home builder should consider investing in thicker walls as a reliable approach to lowering heat loss and conserving energy in your building.
Install Floor Trusses
Floor trusses offer a significant advantage in the installation efficiency of multi-story buildings. This has a natural effect on construction delays and budgets. Let’s examine how floor trusses simplify the building procedure.
One of the main components contributing to floor trusses’ efficiency is their prefabrication. These prefabricated floor trusses are manufactured away from the construction site in a controlled factory environment. Here, manufacturers meticulously craft each truss to meet the undertaking’s unique requirements.
When these trusses reach on-site, they are prepared for installation, saving time compared to standard floor construction procedures that require measuring, cutting, and assembling.
Moreover, the building crew then quickly slots floor trusses into position. This speed lets them proceed to the next phase of the plan without the customary delays and saves critical time. Faster installation means the whole project moves forward more efficiently and minimizes the costly setbacks frequently seen in floor construction.