What Makes a Home Energy Efficient?

Keith Sawlor, October 9, 2019 | Posted in Research; Tagged Passive House , Energy Efficiency, Net Zero Energy, Builders, Heating and Cooling Systems

There’s a lot of talk about energy efficiency when it comes to building new homes these days, but what does it really mean?

Simply put, a home built with energy efficient practices performs better. It’s more comfortable to live in, it’s better for your health and the environment, and it saves you money on your energy bills.

Here’s how it does that:

It’s airtight. The walls, floors, roof, windows, doors, and insulation envelop your home – that’s why they’re called the building envelope. In an energy efficient home, the building envelope is built as tight as can be, keeping outside air out and inside air in (this is where proper ventilation comes into play).

It’s well insulated. Remember that building envelope? High levels of quality insulation help it do its job.

It has high-performing or ENERGY STAR certified windows. The quality of your windows – and their placement – can make a big difference in sealing the building envelope and taking advantage of natural light and warmth.

It uses energy efficient equipment. A high-efficiency heating and ventilation system, water heater and appliances are important factors when it comes to a home’s energy efficiency.

If your home checks all the energy efficient boxes, it likely meets the government’s standard for energy efficiency in a new home. But, do you want a home that falls into the good, better or best category of energy efficiency?

When your home is built to higher energy efficiency standards, you reap even more benefits. Before you build, research the different standards of energy efficient home construction and talk to your builder to see what they recommend – and are qualified to build.

Keith Sawlor

Keith Sawlor is the second generation Owner of Sawlor Built Homes. With more than 35 years experience building custom homes in Nova Scotia, Keith has built a team that mirrors his professional knowledge and values.

Keith is a Certified Residential Builder who is also certified with many leading industry organizations. He is a Passive House Institute US (PHIUS) Certified Builder, a Net Zero Energy (NZE) Certified Builder, a Natural Resources Canada (NRCan) R-2000 Certified Builder, and a Certified Aging in Place Specialist (CAPS).

Keith is a Past Board Member of the Atlantic Home Warranty Program as well as the Canadian Home Builders' Association Nova Scotia. He is involved in many other industry programs and associations, such as the Canadian Home Builders’ Association National and Better Business Bureau.