What Makes a Home Ultra-Efficient
Although many people in Sarasota, Florida, have made energy-efficient upgrades to their home, an ultra-efficient home is a completely different level. Ultra-efficient homes use a very small amount of conventional power methods to run them. Ultra-efficient homes don’t allow any unwanted air to come in or escape. Homeowners often power them using alternative power sources.
Airtight Home
Ultra-efficient homes don’t let air leak out, because homeowners seal them tightly. They don’t typically have duct work, because that’s where air usually leaks from the home.
These super-sealed homes must have mechanical ventilation, since fresh air can’t penetrate the walls, windows, doors or roof. Although it’s good for your energy bill, it could be bad for air quality without proper ventilation. By sealing the home airtight, you don’t risk losing any of the energy from your heater or air conditioner. As a result, you use less energy.
Energy-Efficient Appliances and Lighting
Ultra-efficient homes use energy-efficient appliances and lighting. This keeps monthly utility bills low and lessens your carbon footprint. They’re also built to optimize the sunlight instead of relying on light bulbs. You won’t typically see recessed lighting. Not only ultra-efficient homes contain energy-efficient appliances but they are also often powered by solar power to save extra energy throughout the home.
Alternative HVAC Options
You won’t find an ultra-efficient home with a traditional HVAC system. Although conventional systems have come a long way, they still can’t compare with heat pumps, mini-splits, or geothermal heating and cooling, especially considering ductwork is a big culprit for energy loss in the home. Geothermal heating and cooling are some of the most energy-efficient options for heating and cooling. In some places, the homes are so efficient that a heating and cooling system isn’t even necessary.
If you’re curious about updating the HVAC system in your home to something more efficient, we are the people to call. Contact Custom Air, Inc. at (866) 819-0992 to schedule an appointment today.