How to Make Your New Build Energy Efficient

How to Make Your New Build Energy Efficient

Sustainability is a hot topic and we’re all turning our thoughts to what we can do as individuals to make a difference. Building a new home gives us the chance to incorporate elements that can limit our daily impact on the environment – from tried-and-tested measures like insulation to the latest in solar technology.

By implementing more energy-efficient features into your home, you’ll not only help the environment but potentially save money long term, too.

Here are some common methods you can use to make your home more energy efficient.

Choose your construction materials wisely

Making considered choices when it comes to construction materials will mean energy efficiency is top of mind for your build from the very outset. High-density materials such as concrete and bricks can act as efficient insulators. Use of thermal insulation in walls, roofs and floors will keep the house warm in the winter and cool in the summer, creating less reliance on a heating or cooling system.

Opt for energy-efficient appliances

Once construction is complete, choosing energy efficient appliances will ensure your home remains as environmentally friendly as possible. We generally recommend opting for electric appliances like induction cook tops, a heat pump system and reverse-cycle heating and cooling units. Moving away from traditional gas systems for hot water, heating and cooking will make a world of difference to your carbon footprint, energy usage and utility bills.

When sourcing appliances for your new home, be sure to look out for energy star rating labels: this will indicate how energy-efficient each product will be. Those with enhanced efficiency can be higher in price than lower performing appliances but will cost less to run – and be more environmentally-friendly. Of course, you can always connect your new appliances to solar panels for the ultimate in efficiency.

Considering installing solar panels

If you’re looking for a greener, more sustainable solution when it comes to energy, you might like to consider installing solar panels on your property. When using a good quality, appropriately sized system fitted by a professional, solar panels can last for many years.

Clever tricks such as optimising your energy usage during the day to draw from the solar power rather than the grid and installing the panels in full sunlight away from trees and neighbouring properties, will enhance the performance of your system. 

Swap traditional bulbs for LED lighting

Compared to traditional lightbulbs, LED lighting is more durable, more energy efficient, operates on a lower temperature and provides enhanced brightness. By optimising the natural light in your home and using carefully placed LED lighting where necessary, you can minimise the energy impact of your home.

Use double glazing on windows

Your home will retain heat much more effectively if all your windows are double glazed and draught-proof. Single pane glass allows heat to transmit through quickly, meaning you’ll be pumping more money – and energy – through your heating system in the winter to maintain the right temperature. Also consider the summer months and how to minimise your air conditioning requirements, by placing windows away from direct sunlight and creating shade wherever possible.

Utilise rainwater

By storing rainwater, this can be used to flush toilets, water the garden and power the washing machine – reducing your need as a family to draw on precious freshwater resources.

All of these energy-efficient elements can be easily incorporated into your home design. To discuss your project, give us a call on 1300 234 432 or complete our online enquiry form and a member of our friendly team will get in touch.