Austin Energy Efficient Homes
Imagine Looking Forward to Receiving your Utility Bill
A well designed, energy efficient home can cut energy costs by half or more. As electric and gas prices continue to rise, the savings can be dramatic. Green homes are more comfortable because air flow is controlled. No more uncomfortable drafts!
Air Conditioning for Comfort and Low Energy Use
In Austin and Central Texas, air conditioning is important! As a custom home green builder how do we keep you cool and keep utility bills low? We use high efficiency, energy-saving heating and cooling equipment.
Air tight construction means already-cooled air stays on the inside
Sizing. Installing correctly-sized heating and air conditioning systems means that your air conditioner runs the shortest amount of time to get the maximum effect. Customers remark about the quiet units that keep rooms cool without hot spots.
Variable Speed Heating and Cooling systems operate at a much more efficient slow speed for 80% or more of the run time. This helps to remove humidity inside the home while saving energy. These systems will have SEER ratings of mid 20's while running at the slower speeds and high Teens during the full load cycles.
Properly sized and located air returns provide a balanced temperature throughout your home, increasing comfort.
Windows for Lighting and Reduced Heat
In addition to glass with low-e heat reflective coatings, we use windows with frames that do not conduct heat or cold through them. Not only is this energy efficient, it also prevents moisture build-up on the inside when the weather is cold. That moisture can cause deterioration of the wall and create conditions for mold. Using the right materials keeps you comfortable and reduces your maintenance.
Roofing: What's Between You and the Sun
The roofing material you choose makes a difference to your home. We use heat reflective metal and/or light-colored roofs to reduce the amount of heat that makes it into your home and attic.
Sealed Attics
Our attics are 65 degrees cooler in the summer months than a typical attic. This allows the Air Conditioning system to operate efficiently, keep you comfortable, and get a lower utility bill.
Energy Star Appliances
Appliances that meet Energy Star requirements reduce energy use.
Alternative Lighting
Compact Fluorescent Lighting (CFL) has come a long way! You can choose the color and shape of a bulb. There are dimmer and 3-way bulbs. Use them indoors or out - for flood lights, recessed lighting, reading lights, and in room lighting. There are so many choices that Energy Star has a CFL buying guide!
LED Lighting reduces energy use 75%! They also operate at much cooler temperatures reducing the load on your air conditioning systems.