Creating an energy-efficient home can pose as quite a challenge. Having some knowledge about what to shop for will only make your experience in energy efficiency easier. Here are 7 ways you can start creating the green energy home of your dreams.

Solar Panels

Solar panels are the backbone of creating an energy-efficient home. Not only will these panels save you money, but they are a great renewable energy source that can make you money. Solar panels usually sit on the top of a house in direct sunlight. They create solar energy by absorbing the UV rays, so you don't have to worry if the day is cloudy. The number of solar panels needed to run your home as energy efficient as possible depends on the square footage of your home and the amount of energy that the home uses. In some cases, people find that they use less energy than the solar panels produce. In this case, you can either save that energy as a reserve by using batteries or sell the extra energy to electric companies.

Metal Roof Vents

There are features of metal roof vents that help you be more energy efficient in your home. They don't require any special maintenance other than cleaning every so often, but they help keep your home running as efficiently as possible. Metal roof vents save energy because they release the hot air that rises to the roof. Instead of that hot air circulating back into the home, it floats into the outdoors. This is important for your air conditioning bill. Not only will hot air escape and avoid building up inside your home, but the thermostat won't have to kick on as often, which will save you money in the long run.

High-Performance Windows and Doors

Windows and doors are the pieces of the home that keep cold and hot air from escaping or coming into the house. There are hundreds of varieties of window and door units to choose from, but selecting the right ones will help your energy consumption drastically. The best kinds to choose are high-performance windows and doors. These types of house necessities are made with thicker glass that can withstand and combat extremely hot and cold temperatures. Some windows and doors are even made with double panes for extra climate control. Installing them will only boost your energy efficiency and cut down on your heating and cooling bill. Keep in mind that you can get an efficient and durable door that doesn't sacrifice the the aesthetic of your home exterior. There are several door styles available, so look for one that compliments your style and home needs.  

Energy-Efficient Appliances

The exterior of your home is not the only thing you should look out for when constructing your energy-efficient home. One great way to incorporate green energy inside the home is to install energy-efficient appliances. Many stores carry these types of appliances, and they are usually signified with a star somewhere on the appliance. Cook and clean with peace of mind that you are staying kind to the earth while you tackle the necessary tasks in your home life.

Energy-Efficient Lighting

Lighting is a huge factor when it comes to energy consumption. Cutting down on the lighting bill is a great way to save money. One way to do this is to switch out all your regular light bulbs for more efficient ones. These light bulbs might seem pricey, but they are well worth the money and will pay for themselves quickly. Not only do these types of light bulbs save on your electricity bill, but they also last a great deal longer, so you don't have to change them out as often. You could also install smart lights throughout your home, so you can remotely turn your lighting on and off using a mobile app. Scheduling your light usage can help with energy conservation during the year.

Waterfall Shower Fixtures

Even the pressure of your water in the shower takes energy to produce. It is wise to install a waterfall shower head in your shower to save energy. This type of shower fixture works by gravity, and not water pressure. The fixtures hang from the top of the ceiling in your shower and fall in a beautiful waterfall-like rainfall. The lack of hard water pressure is one thing that people often complain about, but this takes almost no time to get used to. What this shower lacks in water pressure, it makes up for in energy savings.

Green Roof

Many people think creating green roofs on top of your home is an odd and eccentric way to add energy efficiency to your home. Mostly, this is not the case. Green roofs (or sod roofs) are not only beautiful, but they help conserve energy in the most unique way. The sod creates a barrier between the sun and the inside of your home that helps keep the home cool. The sod keeps at a steady temperature which helps regulate your home temperature. This only means that you may find the air conditioner and heat unnecessary at times, and you will definitely add some color to the exterior of your home.

Creating an energy-efficient home takes a lot of careful planning and a large number of resources, but don't let that discourage you. Investing in a home like this will pay off in the long run. These improvements to your home will save you money and reduce the carbon footprint on the earth all at once. That is something to be proud of.

If you’re looking forward to a new home, and want to start that process, contact me today!