ULTRA-EFFICIENT HOMES
Ultra-efficient homes combine energy-efficient construction, appliances and lighting with commercially available renewable energy systems such as solar water heating and solar electricity. Taking advantage of local climate and site conditions, Rainz Cube can often also incorporate passive solar heating and cooling and energy efficiency landscaping strategies. The intention is to reduce home energy consumption as efficiently as possible, and then meet the reduced load with on-site renewable energy systems.
ADVANCED HOUSE FRAMING
If you are building a new home or adding on to an existing one, consider using advanced house framing (also known as optimal value engineering), which reduces material use and waste and improves energy efficiency in a home.
COOL ROOFS
Cool roofs use highly reflective materials to reflect more light and absorb less heat from sunlight, which keeps homes cooler in hot weather.
PASSIVE SOLAR HOME DESIGN
Passive solar home design takes advantage of climate and site conditions to provide heating in winter and cooling in summer.
EARTH PROTECTED HOMES, STRAW BALLS, BUILDINGS AND MANUFACTURED HOMES
If you live in or plan to buy a pre-fabricated home, below is more information to improve your home's energy efficiency:
Efficient Earth-Protected Homes
Earth-protected homes can be built underground or bermed and, when properly designed and built, can be comfortable, durable and energy efficient.
The energy efficiency score reflects the energy efficiency of a house based on the structure of the house and the heating, cooling and hot water systems. Rainz Cube provides details of the actual structure and systems. Recommendations show how to improve the energy efficiency of your home to get a higher score and save money.
Before designing a new home or remodeling an existing one, consider investing in energy efficiency. You'll save energy and money, and your home will be more comfortable and durable. The planning process is also a good time to consider a renewable energy system that can provide electricity, water heating or space heating and cooling. You may want to explore your options for financing an energy-efficient home .
In an existing home, the first step is to conduct a home energy assessment (sometimes called an energy audit) to find out how your home uses energy and determine the best ways to reduce energy use and costs. To learn more about home energy audits and to find free tools and calculators you can contact us.
