October is Energy Awareness Month, and here at Habitat energy efficiency is something we think about every day of the year.
Habitat homes are built to save
on energy, for two very important reasons. First, it saves our homeowners money on their energy bills. Second, we believe in doing what we can to reduce, reuse and recycle our natural resources.
Habitat volunteers use materials and construction techniques that maximize energy efficiency. We make certain the home is well insulated and sealed, to keep it at optimal temperature and reduce heating and cooling needs. This includes purchasing thermopane, low-E windows and doors, and using insulation with an R-value at code or above.
Our appliances are Energy Star and high efficiency. In our rehabs, we salvage materials, such as trimwork, where we can for reuse in the home, and utilize a techique called “advanced framing,” which uses less lumber.
There are many ways that we all can make our homes more energy efficient… and some of them very simple and inexpensive. Read this handy guide from First Energy that offers over 100 ways to save energy. You can also visit our YouTube page, where you’ll find DIY maintenance projects that will help save you money on energy bills.
Many thanks to our community partners, Met-Ed/Penelec Sustainable Energy Fund and Santander, for their support of our affordable, energy efficient build efforts.