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The next big problem that's going to hit people is the cost of energy. It is already skyrocketing and burdening our wallets. However, the idea of energy efficient home comes as a rescuer in this regard. It not only has a good effect on the environment but also helps you mend the big hole in the pocket. You can actually save big bucks that you spend on heating and cooling costs by following a few simple building and landscaping guidelines for an energy efficient home. Think of tight construction. It helps improve energy efficiency by tightening up the air penetrations through the home's exterior. Since most of the gaps are caused during framing, tighter construction with air sealing can create an envelope that improves air quality and keeps outside air from affecting the inside of the house. Thus it prevents cooling in winter and heating in summer. Improved insulation. Increased insulation inhibits heat transfer through the home. Carefully installed insulation that is free of crimping, gaps, and compression can help keep warm air in during winter months and cool air in during the summer. When you keep the house from losing desired temperature, the heater or air conditioner is needed much less, and that saves you money in energy costs. Maximum amount of heat exchange between home interiors and exteriors is through windows. To avoid heat loss or gain through windows you can get high performance windows installed. Though they may sound like a high cost right now they surely are a wise investment considering the fact that they save a lot on energy costs in the long run. Double glazing and special coatings act as glass insulators. These improved materials make a true high performance, energy efficient window. They do not affect the visibility in any way; just inhibit unwanted heat transfer through the window. In addition to using high performance windows, make sure that the window framing is tight and that materials with low conduction are used. These materials include vinyl, fiberglass, and wood. Metal is a good heat conductor, and therefore not a good choice as a window frame. Choose energy efficient equipment to heat and cool your home. You can buy this from many heating and cooling stores. You can lower your bills by using such equipment and save a lot of money and be more comfortable, too. Landscaping is a very important part of building a perfect house. Landscaping features like trees can go a long way on making your house energy efficient. Trees provide shade and cool sorroundings in summers and block chilly winds in winters. Though fully planted trees act as natural air conditioners they can actually help you save a lot on energy costs. Thanks to modern technology, you can have a home that is much more energy efficient. Such homes are not only more comfortable but environment friendly too. And, you can save a lot of money. These measures of building and landscaping also help improve air quality in the home by reducing unwanted drafts.
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About the author: Ricky Domalewska writes exclusively for Fair Building, it's one of the webs most up to date Building sites, their free newsletter is well worth signing up for too. If you want to read more Building articles go to: www.fairbuilding.com/articles Visit our building article directory for a completely unique version of this article.
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