If you’re looking for a new home, net zero houses are a sustainable option. They use an airtight design and enhanced insulation methods to minimize drafts and heat loss. This design helps regulate indoor temperatures while using less energy. Here is information about net zero homes and why they’re valuable in the housing market:
Understanding Net Zero Homes
One reason net zero homes may stand out in the market is their energy consumption levels. A net zero home is designed to keep its energy consumption levels low. This is due to the construction design that prevents spaces from becoming excessively hot or cold. The design combines advanced construction materials, like insulated concrete forms (ICFs), and energy-efficient appliances to reduce energy consumption. A net zero home can generate much of the energy it requires using various renewable energy systems. That means you don’t have to rely heavily on the electrical grid to power your home.
Reasons Why Net Zero Homes Are Valuable
A recent survey showed that 63% of real estate professionals recognize the value of including energy-efficient features when listing homes on the market. These homes may appeal to environmentally conscious homebuyers seeking to reduce their carbon footprint. Here are several reasons why net zero houses are valuable in the housing market:
Cost Savings
If you’re seeking ways to offset your electric bill, a net zero home can be the solution. This home integrates energy-saving features, from renewable energy sources to better insulation and advanced ventilation systems. It reduces a homeowner’s reliance on the electrical grid, potentially leading to significant cost savings on electric bills.
A builder might use ICF blocks to build walls that improve the home’s energy efficiency. ICF walls combined with solid insulation increase a home’s R-value to resist heat flow. It’s one of the reasons this type of home remains cool in the summer and warm in the winter. This feature can lead to less reliance on your HVAC system to warm, cool, and ventilate your house.
Comfort
Thermal regulation plays a key role in creating a comfortable living space for you and your family. One way to achieve this is by choosing a net zero home. These homes are designed to provide optimal thermal comfort, making them valuable in the housing market. They maintain a consistent, comfortable temperature year-round. Net zero homes use high-quality materials to help regulate indoor temperatures. Their airtight construction prevents warm air from escaping, while features like energy-efficient windows can help keep the home cooler during the summer months.
Air Quality
An airtight net zero house can have advanced ventilation systems, like a heat recovery ventilator (HRV) or an energy recovery ventilator (ERV). These ventilation systems fill your rooms with adequate fresh and filtered air and filter out stale or polluted indoor air. With fresh indoor air, you can minimize issues like asthma or allergies that result from polluted air.
Controlled airflow and optimal indoor temperature in a net zero home can help regulate the humidity throughout all rooms. Builders achieve this by incorporating quality insulation, a balanced ventilation system, and an energy-efficient HVAC system. These features reduce the effects of high humidity, which can promote mold growth, while also addressing low humidity, which may create conditions for viruses to thrive.
Choosing a Net Zero Home
Net zero homes may appeal to individuals seeking to contribute to a resilient future while benefiting from energy-efficient living. They have value in the housing market due to their increased cost-savings over time, enhanced comfort levels, and potential health benefits. Contact a home builder today to learn more about building or buying a net zero home.