Everything You Need to Know About Energy-Efficient Home Construction
It’s no surprise that as we approach 2022, future homebuyers in Ottawa are inquiring about their possibilities for creating a sustainable and energy-efficient custom home.
What’s the good news? Going green has a lot of alternatives, and the Domta team can help you make your home more energy-efficient without breaking the bank. We explain why energy-efficient homes are the way of the future, what factors to consider when “going green,” and two green home initiatives that most Ontario residents are unaware of in this post.
What exactly are energy-efficient houses, and why are they so important?
We shouldn’t be surprised if building green becomes the norm in the twenty-first century as the construction sector turns to more environmentally friendly options. Energy-efficient homes perform the same functions as less efficient homes, but they require less energy, making them more environmentally friendly and long-lasting. As a homeowner, this means you’ll be helping to protect the environment and reduce pollution while also saving money on energy bills.
Don’t know where to begin? Here are a few eco-friendly options that will benefit any custom home or luxury renovation:
Home Orientation: Orientation is probably the last thing on your mind when it comes to green building, yet it’s crucial. Take advantage of passive solar energy by positioning your property for optimal sun exposure, which minimises heating and cooling costs and, as a result, utility bills.
Building Materials: When we talk about green building materials, we don’t just mean energy-producing products. Because green materials are more durable and require less care, they are significantly more cost-effective.
Lighting: Upgrade your home’s energy efficiency with LED lights that last longer, perform better in the environment, and emit less heat and UV radiation.
Appliances: If you want to save money on energy and help the environment by reducing harmful emissions, seek ENERGY STAR® certified products. These appliances have all of the bells and whistles you’d expect from a high-end device, plus they’ll save you money on your power bill.
HVAC Design: As a result of modern green technology, even your home’s heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems can be energy-efficient. Rainwater collection, geothermal heating, solar panels, and tankless hot water heaters are just a few ways to make your HVAC system more environmentally friendly.
Do you think you’ll need to make some more major changes? Here’s a rundown of two energy-saving initiatives that most Ontario homeowners are unaware of.
Ontario has a number of initiatives in place to assist homeowners in making their homes more environmentally friendly. The following is a list of initiatives available in the province:
A Home Efficiency Rebate from Enbridge Gas
This program provides homeowners with up to $5,000 in funding towards energy-efficient home renovations.
This program offers qualified Ontario homeowners ways to improve the energy efficiency of their homes through assessments and personalized advice.