Homeowners who care about energy efficiency tend to be more fiscally responsible, happier, and they stay in their homes longer. That is why at Paragon Homes we make sure that all of our new homes are built to a higher standard and are 30% more energy efficient than other new homes.
New homes built today are relatively bigger than those built more than 20 years ago, and that means it takes more energy to run a household. There has been a growing demand for energy efficient upgrades because homeowners do not want to pay higher amounts for electricity and other utilities.
That is why modern building codes require a certain level of efficiency and construction practices, including high insulation values, multi-pane vinyl windows, and energy-efficient furnaces, water heaters, air conditioners and kitchen appliances in all new homes. Paragon focuses on using high quality, sustainable materials, such as Energy Efficient Andersen wood windows with maintenance free cladding, to not only keep utility costs down but to improve each home’s overall efficiency.
One of the most effective ways of improving household energy efficiency is to first target your home’s “envelope”, or its walls, attic, windows and doors. Good insulation slows the rate that heat flows out of the house in winter or into the house in summer, so less energy is required to heat or cool the house. Older homes can be upgraded with blown-in wall insulation that can greatly improve your comfort and save enough energy to be very cost-effective.
Heating and cooling can cost the average homeowner nearly half of their total energy bill. High–efficiency systems are engineered and installed to deliver more comfort, better moisture control, improved indoor air quality, and quieter operation.
Energy efficient new homes are now being built with state-of-the-art construction materials, appliances, and lighting to meet the demand for reduced energy consumption. Some homeowners also look into landscaping as a way to help shade their home and keep cooling bills lower in the summer months.
New homes that are more energy efficient will have the following features:
A complete heating, ventilation and cooling system
A complete thermal enclosure system
A water management system
Efficient lighting and appliances
Independent inspections and testing
For more information, contact us for expert advice on energy efficiency measures in your home.