When it comes to custom homes, building a dream house should go well beyond aesthetics and layout. With the right design elements, you can also make your home incredibly energy efficient. This will reduce your carbon footprint and save you money on future energy costs. Here are a few ways that custom homes can decrease their energy usage.

How to Improve Energy Efficiency in Your Custom Home Design

1. Efficient Appliances & Fixtures

The right appliances and water fixtures can make a huge difference in household energy use. Make room in your custom home design to accommodate ENERGY STAR® rated appliances to save on your electrical bill. You can also install LED light bulbs to further reduce electricity use. Low-flow toilets, shower heads, and faucets will also help you conserve water.

2. Quality Windows

Windows are a major source of heat loss or absorption in many homes. You can reduce the need to turn on your air conditioner by installing windows with low emissivity and a small U-factor, which indicates the window’s rate of heat transfer and insulation.

3. Strategic Landscaping

Since the sun rises in the east and sets in the west, planting trees on these sides of the home will provide shade from strong rays. Reducing the amount of sunshine in your home will limit how much heat your house absorbs. When your home is cooler, you won’t need to run your AC as often.

If you’d like help planning an energy-efficient custom home design, contact the knowledgeable team at J&D Builders in Waipahu, HI. These professional homebuilders have over 110 of combined industry experience and specialize in new home construction as well as house renovations and additions. View a gallery of their past projects online, or call (808) 680-0506 to schedule an appointment with a general contractor.