subject: Things To Consider Before Starting Energy Efficient Houses [print this page] One of the several advantages of a self build home is that you can take every step possible to make sure it is energy efficient. There are many things to consider when building energy efficient houses. Here are four tips to keep in mind.
Engage with an Architect Well Accustomed to Designing Energy Efficient Houses
This is important because an architect with expertise in this area is one of the best assets you can have on the project. They will be able to help you make informed decisions about how to make your house energy effective. Always make sure that your builders are aware of your goal to make your house use less energy. Your builders should have experience in building energy efficient houses, to ensure that your project is successful. Keep in mind that many tradespeople will not exceed the minimum building regulations, and that the minimum standards are usually not the most energy effective.
Aim to Minimize Any Energy Lost Through Heat
A great way to minimize any heat loss is to keep your house plan uncomplicated and economical. If your house design is relatively compact then you will reduce any heat loss, because there are less external walls and there will be a smaller area of roof. Keep in mind that a single storey house loses a lot more heat through the roof when compared to two or three storey houses. This is because as the heat rises, it is used throughout the different storeys before finally reaching the roof. Ensure that all external walls have a high level of insulation, and that the ventilation is controlled. Dont forget about draught-proofing your house too. Also, any architect worth their salt will be able to give you energy calculations of the expected fuel bills annually, so you can see how beneficial minimizing heat loss is to your wallet.
Consider getting Home Insulation
Insulation is an important thing to think about when building energy efficient houses. Investing in insulation at the building stage is one of the easiest and economical ways of improving your homes energy effectiveness. Not only will it make your home considerably warmer in winter, but it will also cut the cost of your fuel bill.
You should have a minimum of 250mm of loft insulation, 100mm of insulation between the joists and 150mm of insulation across the top. Make sure that your insulation overlaps between the elements, for example between the wall and the roof cavity. You should make sure that all insulating supplies are kept dry, and that all of the holes the water and gas pipes make to enter your home are properly sealed, to minimize leakage.
Heat Your Home Effectively
Energy efficient houses are well insulated, meaning that the heating requirements of these houses are less when compared to a similar sized house with less insulation. There are many things to consider when choosing a heating system. This includes thinking about how much time you will spend at home and whether you will need a slow or quick response system, and thinking about which fuel source you would like and the availability of that source. A condensing boiler is a good choice if you are looking to heat your home efficiently, as it is more energy effective compared to modern conventional boilers. Hydronic underfloor heating is another option available to you, which is normally combined with radiators. In general, the underfloor heating is situated downstairs, whilst the radiators are installed on the upper floors.
Now you are armed with these four helpful tips, you can now start your self build project, by contacting an architect with experience in building energy efficient houses. Soon you will be living in your energy effective home, and will be saving the planet as well as saving yourself some money!
