8 Characteristics of an Energy Efficient House
In Tucson, we have terms like "TEP" Guaranteed Home and Energy Star Qualified Homes. The newest homes have built-in computers that communicate with the household energy systems. What characteristics are involved that cause a energy efficient home to use so much less energy than others?
1. Solar panels. Solar energy systems create hot water, hot air, and cool air as needed. The panels heat water, and also generate electricity to heat water. Over-sized water heaters can store "free thermal energy" as well. Statistics say that a typical family of our might spend $170 a year to heat their water for showers, baths, etc.
2. Air conditioner and heat pump. Solar panels lie flat, and there's space between the roof and the solar panels, allowing cooling air flow that helps efficiency. It also holds cool air at night. When a homeowner turns on cooling, air is taken from beneath panels first, rather than from the AC unit. Likewise if heat is requested, hot air is pulled in from the roof first. Programmable thermostats can yield cooling/heating savings of up to 30%.
3. Irrigation system. The system is attached to a rain sensor, so it doesn't come on if it's raining. In Tucson and surrounding areas, plantings are heat and drought-tolerant to save on water consumption.
4. Low-flow faucets and toilets. Low-flow can cut consumption in half, and dual flush actuator toilets can reduce water use by up to 70 percent.
5. Low-e windows. Homes are sealed tight, and high performance windows keep heat out and moderated air in.
6. Spray foam insulation. Insulation creates an air barrier in walls, ceilings and the attic. Complete air exchange is less than 10 percent an hour, whereas in a typical home, inside air might be exchanged with outside air twice hourly.
7. Light bulbs. Energy efficient light bulbs are compact fluorescent lights, and they produce only 25% of the heat of standard light bulbs. Incidentally, they use 75 percent less energy.
8. Appliances. All appliances are low-energy, "Energy Star" certified.
A recent model of a energy home built in Marana, by Meritage Homes, is 1,565 sq. feet. The builder estimates that the energy expenses will total less than $50 a month. (Based on a Bright Solutions audit by Tucson Electric Power) The average resale home of comparable size is $2,197. That's illuminatingly amazing.
If you would like more information on how to find an energy-efficient or green home in the Tucson, Marana, Vail or Oro Valley area, contact me at www.swdeserthomes.com! I'm here to "brighten" your options!
