Designing and constructing an energy-efficient house requires careful planning and attention to details. A whole-house systems approach can help you and your architect develop a successful strategy for incorporating energy efficiency into your home's design.

 

A whole-house systems approach considers the interaction between you, your building site, your climate, and these other elements or components of your home:

 

appliances and home electronics

insulation and air sealing

lighting and daylighting

space heating and cooling

water heating

windows, doors, and skylights

 

Builders and designers who use this approach recognize that the features of one component in the house can greatly affect other components, which ultimately affects the overall energy efficiency of the house.

 

Among the benefits of using a whole-house systems approach are:

 

reduced utility and maintenance costs

increased comfort

reduced noise

a healthier and safer indoor environment

improved building durability

 

You can use the whole-house systems approach with any home design. Using this approach, you also might consider designing a home that generates its own electricity.