Real Estate
2008-12-01 14:05:00
What is a “green” home?
Answer: Green homes incorporate environmental considerations and resource efficiency into every step of the building and development process to minimize environmental impact. The design, construction, and operation of a home must focus on energy and water efficiency, resource efficient building design and materials, indoor environmental quality, and must take the home’s overall impact on the environment into account. However, many of the processes and technologies that go into a green home happen behind the scenes and behind the walls. What can a homebuyer look for? First, look for a builder that is a certified green builder through the National Association of Home Builders.
Other key components of a green home include:
Energy-Efficient Features – Many of the energy-efficient qualities of a green home are easy to spot. Appliances, windows, and water heating systems will likely have ENERGY STAR® ratings. The home should also include efficient lighting fixtures and bulbs.
Water-Efficient Features – Fixtures and appliances such as low-flow shower heads, faucets, and toilets, and ENERGY STAR dishwashers and washing machines all conserve water.
Resource-Efficient Features – These decisions…from home size, to orientation on the lot, to floor plan layout…are made in the design of your home and development of the lot. The house orientation and design should take advantage of natural daylight to reduce lighting needs, and should use strategies to reduce heat gain in the summer and heat loss in the winter.
