Energy efficiency homes are all the hype in Orlando and pretty much the rest of Florida. Despite the Sunshine State having an electricity rate that’s 23% lower than the national average, residents in Florida still pay higher electricity bills when compared to the country’s mean. However, energy efficiency isn’t always about cutting costs. Energy-efficient homes are also pivotal in reducing the environmental impact of residential living on the environment.
Custom home builders in Orlando looking to stay ahead of the pack must develop innovative ways to enhance energy efficiency in their design and construction processes. Here’s how they can do just that.
1. Adopt Passive Solar Principles During Design
Energy efficiency in custom homes has its roots in the design process. To maximize efficiency, builders must incorporate passive solar design principles when designing homes. This means making sure the home efficiently utilizes heating and lighting from the sun, which typically involves:
- Strategic window placement
- Proper building orientation
- Ensuring proper ventilation
- Using natural and artificial shading
2. Choose Renewable Energy Sources
Renewable energy sources offset long-term utility costs by minimizing reliance on traditional energy sources. In fact, solar panels save homeowners in the US an average of $1,530 on annual electricity bills. Savings in Orlando could be even more, given that Florida receives year-round sunshine. Besides solar panels, custom home builders can also explore wind power as an alternative to solar panels.
3. Invest in Energy Efficient Windows and Doors
Doors and windows are conduits for heat and cold air to escape, compromising the effectiveness of your cooling and heating systems. Custom home builders in Orlando should opt for energy-efficient doors and windows to prevent heat from escaping. Double- or triple-glazed windows are a great place to start, but doors and windows with airtight seals are almost as good.
4. Integrate Smart Home Technology
Smart home technology takes home energy efficiency to another level. For instance, installing programmable thermostats allows homeowners to regulate home temperature based on external conditions and occupancy. In doing so, they prevent significant energy waste. With smart lighting, lights in a room only turn on when the room is occupied.
Consult With Us Today
Custom home builders have a crucial role to play in ensuring the energy efficiency and environmental sustainability of the homes they build. Energy-efficient homes are a hot market in Florida, and incorporating solid techniques in Custom Home Building and Custom Home Renovations will attract high-value clients and increase your property’s long-term value.
If you’re looking to build an energy-efficient custom home in Orlando, Winter Park, Lake Nona, Longwood, Mount Dora, or Windermere without breaking the bank, contact Posada Custom Homes today at (407) 740-7707. We’ll make your dream home a reality.