Solar Roof Panels

More homes can be seen showcasing solar panels on the roof, and there’s a good reason why. Not only do solar panels help lower the cost of your electricity bills, they also assist with reducing your carbon footprint. Solar panels utilize the sun’s rays to create energy to help power your home, resulting in it running more efficiently. Although solar panels aren’t new, more homes have been donning them in recent years to not only make a difference when it comes to the conservation of our planet, but also to use less energy in the home. With the ample sunlight we get here in Southwest Florida, it’s a smart decision to opt for solar panels on your home.

Sustainable Materials

We’ve been recycling materials for years. From soda cans to plastic, paper products to glass bottles, it’s become second nature for many of us to recycle these items, so that they can be put to good use elsewhere. The same goes for your home, as many materials are being used in the space that have been recycled, such as:

• Cork
• Bamboo
• Recycled steel
• Reclaimed wood

Not only are these materials being seen in some of the décor in homes, the homes themselves are being built with these recycled products. This allows the home building process to be even more sustainable and beneficial to the environment.

Water-Saving Elements

Choosing appliances that utilize less water is also another way homeowners are maximizing their homes. From water-saving shower heads to dishwashers, washing machines to low-flow faucets, opting for these conservation methods is much more practical. Plus, just like solar panels, you’re also able to enjoy a lower water bill in the process.

Plant Life

Another way to make your home work more efficiently, while also helping the environment is planting trees around your home. Depending on the size of your property, you’ll be able to shade your home, so that it’s cooler in the sizzling summer months, as well as more private all year-round. Trees absorb the carbon dioxide in the air, converting it into clean oxygen, reducing pollution and improving the air quality. This is a fantastic way to maximize efficiency in your home and do your part to help Mother Nature in the process.

The Eco-Friendly Home

Implementing many of these aspects is a winning combination for you and for the environment. Your home will be running smoothly, you’ll be saving money on your energy bills and the environment will benefit as well. If you’re looking to embrace a more energy efficient lifestyle it’s important to talk with your builder about all of the outstanding options available.

Gulfstream Homes is ready to help you build the ideal home in Southwest Florida! Call (239) 254-1664 or visit www.gulfstreamhomes.com to learn more.

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The post Energy Efficient Home Building Trends for 2022 first appeared on Gulfstream Homes.

Energy-Saving Appliances

Let’s face it…there are a lot of appliances in the home, and what do all of these appliances do? Use a lot of energy. Well, they don’t have to, and by incorporating more energy efficient versions into any room in the home, you’ll be able to decrease energy output, as well as your energy bills. Consider swapping out the following for more energy-saving options:

• Oven

• Refrigerator

• Washer & dryer

• Microwave

• Dishwasher

• HVAC system

You’ll benefit from replacing these high energy users with more eco-friendly options. Not only do they work just as well, if not better, than their high energy counterparts, they also help you make your home operate more efficiently. According to Save On Energy, “Energy Star appliances will save you 10% to 50% of the energy required, depending on the comparison model – and much more if you are replacing an old appliance.”

Energy Efficient Windows & Doors

You may not realize how much air can seep in through cracks and crevices around your doors and windows. Not only does this lead to your home heating up more rapidly in the summer, it also results in your air conditioning working overtime in order to keep your home at a comfortable temperature. Choosing to outfit your home with energy efficient windows and doors helps you keep cool air in and hot air out, which is especially helpful during our steamy Southwest Florida summers. They have a better seal and are made of better materials, making them perfect for new builds or if you’re renovating your existing home.

Programmable Thermostats

There’s no doubt about it…your HVAC system is constantly working to help you stay cool in the summer, which means that energy bills have the potential to skyrocket during this time of the year. Use energy more efficiently by adding a programmable thermostat to your home. Set the temperature for the various times of the day and let your thermostat handle it. Turn the air conditioning down a little while you’re gone and program your thermostat to automatically raise it when you come home for the day. This way, your HVAC system isn’t overworking when no one is home.

Other Energy Efficient Options

Remember, choosing to add even a couple of these energy efficient enhancements to your home goes a long way when it comes to saving energy. You may also want to consider the following for even more energy savings:

• LED lighting

• Low-flow faucets

• Extra insulation in the attic

Don’t forget to partner with a home builder who listens to your needs and helps you find the ideal eco-friendly options for your home.

Gulfstream Homes can help you build the perfect home! Call (239) 254-1664 or visit www.gulfstreamhomes.com to get started.

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The post Best Energy Efficient Enhancements You Can Make to Your Home first appeared on Gulfstream Homes.