Do you intend to construct an energy-efficient home? The design elements of an energy-efficient home make it attractive and valuable. Besides, energy-efficient homes require less energy to run. As such, you help conserve the environment and natural resources. Below are some tips to help you construct an energy-efficient home.

Consider a Solar Design

Solar designs use the site, climate and orientation of the house to reduce its energy consumption. When building a solar home, you must be creative when choosing a construction site. Typically, it should face the sun to ensure maximum exposure. If you cannot find an appropriate location, choose a location where one side of the property is exposed to the sun. Your architect will use the sun to achieve the following: 

• The construction materials should have a high thermal mass. It reduces the need for additional insulation. Besides, you do not have to overuse the air conditioning system.
• The orientation of the property should be such that the common rooms (living area, kitchen and master bedrooms) have direct access to the sun. It ensures they have sufficient lighting hence reducing the need for artificial light.
• The architect will install skylights to illuminate dark rooms.
• The design could also be such that the sun's rays strike the walls of rooms that do not face the sun. Thermal walls will release heat to these rooms at night.
• Install solar panels on the roof. They will charge up the batteries during the day.

Landscaping

The landscape of your home can help improve its energy efficiency. For instance, if you live in a hot climate, you could plant trees around the property to prevent direct contact with the sun. If you live in a temperate environment, plant deciduous trees around your home. They will shield you from the sun's rays during summer and allow the sun's rays during the winter.

Appliances

Your home should have energy-efficient appliances. Check the star rating of the appliances that you purchase to know its energy efficiency. You could also install smart systems in your home. They enable you to automate the various appliances in your home. For instance, the air conditioner could go on or off at a particular temperature. Besides, the lights could go off during the day.

When building an energy-efficient home, consider solar designs, creatively design your landscape and choose your appliances wisely. Hire an architect specialising in energy-efficient home design to create construction blueprints. Remember to be mindful of the environment when building the property. For instance, you could reduce water wastage or use recycled materials.