Energy Wise
Reduce energy consumption throughout the house
Standard Features of a Westmont FGBC Certified Green Home
HIGH EFFICIENCY HVAC SYSTEM – The energy efficiency of central air conditioning is listed as the seasonal energy efficiency rating (SEER); we use models with a minimum SEER of 13.
SEALED DUCT SYSTEM – Reduces wasted energy by eliminating air leaks into non-living spaces.
INSULATED WINDOWS & LOW E GLASS – Reduces energy loss & minimizes fabric/carpet fade, as well as creating a comfortable sound barrier to outdoor noise.
ENERGY STAR APPLIANCES – Use 10% to 50% less energy, depending on the product.
TANKLESS WATER HEATERS – On demand hot water, heat only the amount of water being used.
CEILING FANS IN MAIN LIVING AREAS – Ceiling-mounted paddle fans will provide air flow that evaporates moisture from your skin so that you will be comfortable at a higher temperature.
INSULATED HOT WATER PIPES – Water heaters are the second highest energy consumer in your house; insulating above and below the slab hot water pipes conserves energy.
LIGHT COLOR PALETTE FOR INTERIOR & EXTERIOR FINISHES – Light colored surfaces have been shown to reduce cooling cost and increase lighting efficiency.
COMPACT FLOURESCENT LIGHTS BULBS – Uses up to 2/3 less heat and lasts up to 10 times longer than incandescent bulbs.
POSITIONING HOUSE ON LOT – PRESERVING NATURAL TREES – Where possible, proper positioning of your house can reap benefits for a lifetime.
OPTIONS
ENERGY STAR LIGHT FIXTURE PACKAGE – To save money on utility bills, use ENERGY STAR qualified lighting fixtures in high traffic areas such as kitchens, bathrooms, stairs and hallways.
SHADING WINDOWS WITH LARGE OVERHANGS – Reduce summertime heat gain through windows by shading the windows with larger overhangs or landscaping.
SOLAR ENERGY – Passive solar heating is one of the most direct ways to utilize renewable energy, however, costs vs. benefits must be addressed.
LED LIGHTING – LED’s (light-emitting diode) are extremely long lasting (30,000 to 50,000 hours) and their efficacy has improved dramatically.
