What is the Home doing?
   

This pages is all about facts and figures about out home, and just how much we are wasting in energy. The information below comes form a a mixture of resources which we have looked at.

Energy usage in homes varies widely. For example cities in the milder regions of the world like the southern U.S. and pacific coast of the USA need far less energy for air conditioning than cities such as New York or Chicago. In milder climates, lighting energy may easily consume up to 40% of total energy. But certain appliances such as waterbeds, hot tubs and freezers made in pre-1990 use up significant amounts of electricity.

Air Conditioning, 44%                              

Water Heating, 13%                             

Lighting, 12%                                

Refrigeration, 8%                                     

Home Electronics, 6%                           

Laundry Appliances, 5%                      

Kitchen Appliances, 4%                            

Other Uses, 8%

ref; www.wikipedia.org
  

In the future it will become compulsory to have the following in your home in order to make it energy efficient:

  • Loft Insulation
  • Cavity Wall Insulation
  • UPVC Sealed Unit Double Glazing
  • Combination Boiler
People who buy your house will be able to see how energy efficient it really is when H.I.Ps also become compulsory. H.I.Ps (Home Information Packs) are to give the buyer of your home more information as to what has happened to it over so many years. This will include the environmental efficiency of your home.
Components of a Typical ENERGY STAR Qualified Home Energy Effective Homes

Energy efficient products help reduce pollution from the home and reduce bills.

1. Effective Insulation

Properly installed, climate-appropriate insulation in floors, walls, and attics ensure even temperatures throughout the house, less energy consumption, and increased comfort.

2.High-Performance Windows

Energy efficient windows employ advanced technologies, such as protective coatings and improved frame assemblies, to help keep heat in during winter and out during summer. These windows also block damaging ultraviolet sunlight that can discolour carpets and furnishings.

3. Tight Construction and Ducts

Sealing holes and cracks in the home's exterior and in duct systems help reduce drafts, moisture, dust, pollen and noise. A tightly sealed home improves comfort and indoor air quality while reducing utility bills.

4. Efficient Heating and Cooling Equipment

In addition to using less energy to operate, energy-efficient heating and cooling systems can be quieter, reduce indoor humidity, and improve the overall comfort of the home. Typically, energy-efficient equipment is also more durable and requires less maintenance than standard models.

5. Lighting and Appliances

Energy efficient homes may also be equipped with efficient products such as lighting fixtures, compact fluorescent bulbs, ventilation fans, and appliances, such as refrigerators, dish washers, and washing machines.

6. Overall Happiness

Energy efficient products help reduce pollution from the home and reduce bills.

Energy Efficient Homes can include a variety of energy-efficient features, such as effective insulation, high performance windows, tight construction and ducts, efficient heating and cooling equipment, and energy saving lights and appliances. These features contribute to improved home quality and homeowner comfort, and to lower energy demand and reduced air pollution. They are the future.