1. Choose Your Builder Wisely

This is first for a reason. It is the most important. When you go to the builder you should already have a good idea of things that he will do that will make your home more energy efficient. But if he is a good builder he should be telling you things that he does that you may not have even thought of. He should already know and be ready to implement everything that you have found in your research, or tell you why you should not do it.

2. Thicker Outside Walls

Most builders have gone to 6 inch outside walls for the simple reason that you can get more insulation in them.

3. Amount of Insulation

A lot of builders have gone to spraying a thin coat of foam insulation on first. It seals things. Then they put in the normal fiberglass insulation. Add these 2 together to get your total “R” value. And your builder should want to go above the normal required code. And don’t forget the ceilings. This is very important, as heat rises!

4. Orientation of the House

Sometimes you have absolutely no control over this. But if you do, face the sun. You can use the sun to heat your home. And in the summer you can close the blinds to get the sun out.

5. Heating and Cooling System

The options here are many. And they will vary according to your situation. You will really need to do a lot of research in this area. Make sure that you cover every aspect when you consider which system to go with. Most importantly the type of energy it requires. And the payback years. If a system takes 20 years before you see a savings, and you move every 7 years, it may not be a wise choice.

6. Hot Water

I love the new “tankless” hot water systems. Gas seems to be a favorite for new construction. But it depends upon your situation. For instance, if you are making your own electricity, you would want to go with electric.

7. Windows

This is one area where a lot of improvements have been made! There are many varieties at many different prices. The good thing is that there is a rating system that makes them easy to compare. Again, research and make a wise decision.

8. Lighting

If one CFL light bulb can make a difference, imagine what a whole houseful of them can do. Hopefully your builder will be using energy efficient lighting. If he does not, he is more concerned about making a profit than saving money on YOUR energy bill.

So there are 8 things to consider when building energy efficient houses. But this is not a complete list. And hopefully between you and your builder you will come up with even more!

There are many ways to save energy. Building energy efficient houses is the best start. But even after the house is complete, there are many things you can do to save energy. Not only to save money, but to save the planet and leave something for the next generation! Make sure that you do your part.

Building Energy Efficient Houses – 8 Things to Consider is a post from: Energy Efficient Home Tips

First are your light bulbs. When they need replacing, use the new energy efficient CFL bulbs. They seem expensive at first, but if you look at the big picture, they are a bargain. They do not use as much energy and they last much longer. The added benefit is that you will not be changing bulbs as often.

We talked about turning the temperature down on your hot water heater. But for a little cost you should wrap the pipes and put a jacket on your water heater. Both can be picked up at your local hardware store and can be installed by yourself. It is not hard to do.

Another low cost item that is easily installed is a low flow head for your faucets. This will reduce the amount of hot water that you use.

Motion detectors on your outside lights could save money. Some people turn their outside lights on and forget about them. I have seen outside lights on in my neighborhood all during the day. If you do this, motion activated lights could save you money. Some are easily screwed in just before the bulb, and others require an electrician to install.

When doing the math on this option, don’t forget that motion activated lights are also a help with safety and security.

So there are a few tips to save some money on that next energy bill. It will only take a little time and cash to implement them!

For over 50 great tips that you can use in your home to save on energy bills check out our Ebook at: Energy Efficient Home Tips.

Save Money On Your Energy Bill is a post from: Energy Efficient Home Tips