6 Ways to Improve Energy Efficiency in Your Custom Home

While people in Northern climates are already preparing for the cooler temperatures of the autumn and winter months, forecasters say the heat and humidity of Central Florida will remain for a few more weeks. That means your air conditioner is still working hard. Plus, more time spent inside means increased use of other utilities such as lights, televisions, and more.

Luckily, there are simple ways you can save money and conserve energy in your custom home. Here are some of the most popular:

1) Make Careful Selections

Today’s custom homes are built with the highest-quality materials that keep energy efficiency in mind. That includes LED lighting, new energy-rated appliances, efficient HVAC systems, and more. You can boost the energy savings by making other important decisions during the planning stages.

That includes opting for doors and windows designed for energy-efficiency. These items reduce air leaks, keeping your custom home cool in the summer and warm when the outside temperature drops.

2) Design for Efficiency

There was a time when you had to choose a house that was either functional or fashionable. With a new custom home, you can easily get both. It’s possible to design a residence with an attractive floor plan that still maximizes energy savings. Over time, that can add up to more money in your pocket.

The first step is to consult with a trusted and reputable custom home builder. These professionals can help you secure a floor plan that meets all your needs. That way, your custom home will provide decades of comfortable and enjoyable living for you and your loved ones.

3) Practice Creative Landscaping

More than mere aesthetics, innovative landscaping ideas actually help regulate the temperature inside your home. Strategically-planted trees provide essential and natural shade outside areas of your property that receive the most sun. This dramatically reduces heat transfer.

In addition, creative landscaping can reduce or eliminate the need for excessive trimming and cutting. If you use electric shears for property maintenance, lessened use results in improved energy savings.

4) Ensure Proper Insulation

A common problem in existing homes is that they lack adequate insulation. This could be due to improper initial installation or wear over time. Poor insulation allows cooler air to escape while keeping warm air in place. Along with higher utility bills, this also creates a potential health hazard.

By contrast, custom homes are built to current conditions and the highest of safety standards. That means you get the peace of mind that your house is ready for any climate or severe weather scenario.

5) Experience the Great Outdoors

As Fall approaches, cooler temperatures on the horizon. That means it will once again be enjoyable to be outside for longer periods of time. By not having to run the A/C as much, you’ll save money on utility costs.

Exploring Central Florida is also a great way to get to know the area. For example, there are many fun and exciting attractions in and around Ormond Beach just waiting to be discovered by you and your family.

6) Start a Conversation  

Some people are hesitant to build a custom home based on rumors they’ve heard. The fact is, custom homes are affordable and the construction process is straight-forward. Best of all, you get a say in every aspect. From the floor plan to landscaping, storage, even details such as hardware and equipment, it’s easy to create a residence of which you can be proud.

Since 1991, we’ve built more than 3,000 custom homes for people across Central Florida. Browse the gallery section of our website to witness the elegant design of which we’re capable. Then, contact us today to get started on your own custom home.