Home Trends in 2015 Will Move Toward Maximum Energy Efficiency
2015 is almost upon us, and while it’s doubtful that we’ll be getting hover boards or power laces, there are definitely a few emerging trends to be aware of: particularly with regards to energy efficiency. Here are a few of the home trends in 2015 that you should be aware of.
Alternative Lighting
Compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs) have been gradually replacing incandescent bulbs over the last few years. They provide the same amount of light for a fraction of the energy and last up to 10 times longer. Additionally, light-emitting diodes (LED) lights are now becoming more common as well. They’re more expensive than incandescent bulbs, but they can last even longer than CFLs, and the energy they save in that time more than makes up for the price difference.
Low-E Windows
Windows are a great source of energy savings, by letting in both natural light and natural heat. Low-E windows help save even more energy by keeping heat in during the winter and out during the summer. They also block harmful UV rays, which can damage your furniture over time.
Space Efficiency
One of the major home trends in 2015 is smaller homes that utilize space more efficiently. A smaller home requires much less energy to keep running, and if it’s designed efficiently, it can also produce much less waste. Therefore, more houses are being designed for functionality, economizing on space and reducing energy use, while still providing all the comforts of home.
Energy Star
The federal Energy Star program is the go-to organization for finding energy savings. Not only does it identify the most energy-efficient appliances on the market, but they also provide certification for homes. Homes that meet a variety of strict energy requirements, including costing less to heat and cool and having better indoor air quality, are given Energy Star certification and recognized as more economical and environmentally-friendly places to live. If you’re looking for a new home in 2015, investing in an Energy Star certified home will save you money for years to come.
To keep abreast of more home trends in 2015, contact us at Gulf Coast Air Systems today.
