Tag: energy efficient new homes: lighting

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Passive Solar Energy for Homes: Daylighting

Reviewed and revised on 11/15/2013

Natural light can contribute to energy savings inside the home by reducing the need for artificial lighting powered by energy sources. Structures with a long east-west axis and a concentration of windows on the southern exposure receive the maximum benefit from daylight. Windows with low-emissivity (Low-E) glass provide the opportunity for optimum natural lighting while reducing heat gain in the summer and heat loss during the winter months.

Recommendations for the amount of southern windows …

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Compact Fluorescent Lighting — CFL

Reviewed and Revised on 11/13/2013

Photo of Compact Fluorescent Lamps/Lightbulbs

How much can I save by switching to Compact Fluorescent Lamps/Light bulbs?

On an average lighting represents 10-15% of a home’s electricity bill. Switching from incandescent light bulbs to compact fluorescent lamps/lightbulbs (CFLs) is the simplest way to save on this bill. 

A CFL bulb uses only 1/4th of the energy used in a incandescent bulb and last 10 times longer. It does cost about $2 or more in comparison to incandescent bulbs however, if …

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Importance of Air Tight Construction in Providing a Continuous Air Barrier in New Homes

Reviewed and Revised on 11/13/2013

 

Construction gaps and resulting air leakages can increase heating and cooling costs, create comfort and moisture problems, draw in pollutants, reduce fire safety, and serve as an entry for rodents and insects. Windows, doors, and outside walls can contribute to air leakage, but the greatest losses occur in gaps and holes that are hidden from view and cause a continuous air exchange between the interior and the attic, crawl space, and outdoors.

Homes should have …

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No to Low Cost Actions to Save Home Energy and Money

Reviewed and Revised 01/03/2014

Simple tips designed to help you save energy in your home with little or no out-of-pocket costs.

Heating

  • Lower the thermostat when you sleep or not at home. Lowering the thermostat by 10 to 15 degrees for 8 hrs can help you save  5-15% annually on your heating bill.  Energy.gov website states that if the setback period is 8 hrs or longer than

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