Colorado is an amazing place to live. It has stunning mountain views.
The region also presents many opportunities for residents to enjoy the great outdoors.
However, the diverse climate experienced throughout the year presents some challenges to homeowners here.
One of the biggest issues is related to energy efficiency.
The region experiences very high temperatures during summer.
It also encounters extreme freezing conditions in winter.
This diversity makes it hard to maintain a comfortable living environment.
All efforts to ensure this lead to increased energy consumption. The result is higher energy bills.
Energy-Efficient Kitchen Appliances Are a Plus
To prevent such occurrences, it makes sense to build with energy efficiency in mind. This article explains different features that you should definitely integrate into your custom Colorado home.
HVAC Automation Technology
Automation can take energy management to a whole new level. Having an automation system on your HVAC, in particular, goes a long way in minimizing energy waste. This is all while maintaining indoor comfort for you and your loved ones.
A smart thermostat, for instance, can be able to learn your preferences. With the data collected, it can adjust heating and cooling settings to match your needs. Another feature like a climate control system can manage different parts of your home independently. With it, less frequently used areas like the basement don’t have to be constantly heated or cooled.
Such automations are quite valuable in Colorado. This is because the state experiences constantly changing temperatures.
High Performance Insulation
As aforementioned, the state experiences fluctuating temperatures quite often. Proper insulation is therefore a must-have here. This is because it can help maintain comfortable living conditions year-round.
You have many insulation solutions at your disposal. Some of these include rigid foam board or spray foam. These options go a long way in preventing drafts. The result is reduced energy consumption. The insulation is not just good for thermal performance. In addition to this, it enhances soundproofing. This makes it a great option for those homeowners who don’t want noise from the outside.
High performance insulation is a great solution for homeowners looking to lower their energy spending.
LED Lighting and Smart Controls
Switching to LED lighting is one of the fastest ways to boost energy efficiency at home. The reasoning behind this is that LEDs use up to 80% less energy. This is when compared to traditional incandescent bulbs. They are hence a great addition for Colorado homes. This is quite important especially knowing how fast energy bills accumulate here.
LED lights should be paired with smart controls like dimmers and motion sensors. They should also have programmable timers. These features combined will go a long way in minimizing energy use.
Passive Solar Design
When building in Colorado, you have to take full advantage of the abundant sunlight experienced here. You can do this by integrating design elements that harness solar energy. This can go a long way in helping you reduce utility bills. It can also ensure that your home is more sustainable.
One option to consider is having large south-facing windows. These ones soak up even the low-angle winter sun. The result is a warm living space, even during the cold months of the year. You can pair this strategy with materials like concrete or tile floors. They absorb and slowly release heat. Through this, you are able to achieve steady indoor temperatures. This is quite attainable without the need to overpower your heating and cooling system.
Energy Efficient Windows and Doors
Colorado experiences a wide range of temperatures. This can be from sweltering summers to freezing winters. A great way to minimize unwanted heat loss or heat gain is to have energy efficient windows and doors.
Modern windows come with low-emissivity coatings and multiple panes. They may also be fitted with gas fills. These features combine to reduce heat transfer. You will therefore be able to achieve a cool home during summer. In winter, expect to have a warmer place.
In regard to the doors, contemporary ones come equipped with proper insulation. This prevents drafts. It also reduces the need for excess heating and cooling.
Building in Colorado needs to be more than just constructing a beautiful home. In addition to this, you need to have a space that promotes maximum energy efficiency. You can do this by implementing the aforementioned features. Integrating them will be the only way to ensure significant cost savings and a sustainable home.
For the best possible results, consider reaching out to us, at Colorado Mountain Builders for a full assessment of your home. After the inspection, we’ll be able to recommend the best energy-efficient features for you.