How to design a home that will reduce energy bills

Building a home can be expensive, but with the right preparation on your blueprints, you can turn your home into a longterm investment that will save a bundle on electric bills.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• An architect you trust, or that specializes in green construction.

1. Position the side of your home with the most windows southwest, to maximize sunlight and reduce the need for electric lighting.
2. Position the side of the home with the most windows southwest, to maximize sunlight and reduce the need for electric lighting.
3. Install two layers of drywall on the outside of the home, with foam insulation in between, in addition to face insulation.
4. Plant trees in front of windows facing south. The trees will help shade the house during summer months and reduce the need for air conditioning.

Tips & Warnings

• Some "green building" techniques can be expensive, but if you plan to live in your home for many years, the construction costs will pay off.