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How to Lower Energy Costs of Your New Build Home

Company: The Nottinghamshire Building Company | Author: Rick Brown | Publish Date: 11/12/2024 | Read Time: 6 minutes

Home with solar power to lower enbergy costs in new build home

Lowering energy costs in a new build isn’t just about saving money it’s also about creating a sustainable, comfortable living environment for your family. This guide explores practical ways to improve energy efficiency, reduce heat loss, and build a cost-effective home.

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How Do You Make a New Build Energy Efficient?

Making a new build energy efficient starts with strategic planning and quality materials. Some key considerations include:

  • Insulation: Invest in high-quality insulation for walls, floors, and roofs. Materials like spray foam or rigid foam boards can significantly improve thermal performance.
  • Windows and Doors: Choose double or triple-glazed windows and insulated doors to reduce heat transfer. Look for energy ratings to determine their efficiency.
  • Appliances: Select energy-efficient appliances with high energy ratings. For example, an A-rated dishwasher or washing machine uses less electricity and water.
  • Renewable Energy: Consider installing solar panels, which can offset electricity costs over time. Heat pumps and solar thermal systems are also excellent additions for heating.
  • LED Lighting: Switch to LED bulbs, which consume up to 75% less energy than traditional lighting options.

By incorporating these features during the design stage, you can achieve a home that’s both efficient and cost-effective.

Do New Builds Have to be Energy Efficient?

In the UK, new builds are subject to strict regulations that promote energy efficiency. Building standards, such as Part L of the Building Regulations, require homes to meet minimum levels of insulation, air tightness, and heating efficiency.

For example, new builds must incorporate energy-saving measures like low-U-value windows, efficient heating systems, and effective ventilation to reduce carbon emissions. While these regulations set a baseline, many homeowners choose to exceed them by integrating advanced systems like mechanical ventilation with heat recovery (MVHR) for even greater energy savings.

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Are New Build Houses Cheaper to Heat?

Yes, new build homes are generally cheaper to heat compared to older properties. This is because they benefit from modern construction methods that prioritize energy efficiency. Features like better insulation, draught-proofing, and energy-efficient heating systems mean you use less energy to maintain a comfortable temperature.

For instance, a 2022 study by the Home Builders Federation found that buyers of new build homes saved an average of £2,000 annually on energy bills compared to those living in older properties. These savings can be further enhanced by incorporating renewable energy sources like solar panels or ground-source heat pumps.

Where is the Most Heat Lost in a House?

Understanding where heat escapes from a home helps you target improvements effectively. The primary areas of heat loss include:

  • Roof: Poorly insulated roofs account for up to 25% of a home's heat loss. Using materials like mineral wool or cellulose can prevent this.
  • Walls: Older properties with uninsulated walls lose around 35% of heat. New builds benefit from cavity wall insulation or solid wall systems.
  • Windows and Doors: Inefficient glazing or poorly fitted frames can lead to substantial heat leaks. Modern builds reduce this with high-performance glass and sealed fittings.
  • Floors: Around 10% of heat can escape through uninsulated floors. Underfloor heating systems paired with insulation are effective solutions.

By addressing these areas during the build, you create a home that stays warmer for longer with less energy use.

How Can I Reduce Energy Loss When Building a House?

Reducing energy loss begins with intelligent design and careful material selection. Key strategies include:

  • Air Tightness: Seal gaps around doors, windows, and other openings to prevent draughts. Testing for air tightness during construction ensures minimal heat leakage.
  • Orientation: Position your home to take advantage of natural sunlight. South-facing windows can provide passive solar heating, reducing reliance on artificial heating.
  • Thermal Mass: Use materials like concrete or stone that absorb and store heat during the day, releasing it slowly at night.
  • Green Roofs: Installing a green roof adds insulation while also contributing to biodiversity.
  • Advanced HVAC Systems: High-efficiency heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems reduce energy waste while maintaining indoor comfort.
to lower enbergy costs in new build home

What Is an R-Value for Energy?

The R-value is a measure of how well a material resists heat flow. The higher the R-value, the better the insulation. For example:

  • Walls: A typical R-value for walls ranges from R-13 to R-21, depending on the climate and materials.
  • Roofs: Roof insulation should have an R-value between R-30 and R-60 for optimal efficiency.
  • Windows: While windows don’t have R-values, their thermal performance is measured by U-values. Lower U-values indicate better energy efficiency.

Choosing materials with appropriate R-values for your region ensures that your home stays warm in winter and cool in summer, reducing heating and cooling costs.

How The Nottinghamshire Building Company Can Help Make Sure You Have an Energy-Efficient Home

The Nottinghamshire Building Company specializes in creating homes that are both beautiful and energy-efficient. With extensive experience in sustainable construction, we guide you through every step of the process, from selecting high-performance materials to installing renewable energy systems.

Our team works closely with architects and energy consultants to integrate features like solar panels, heat pumps, and state-of-the-art insulation into your home’s design. By prioritizing energy efficiency, we not only help reduce your carbon footprint but also lower your utility bills for years to come.

Contact us today to discuss your project and discover how we can turn your dream of an energy-efficient home into reality. Contact us by calling 07411 664543 or email us at dave@nottsbuilding.co.uk.

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