Things to Look for in an Energy Efficient Home in Naples

Naples prides itself on its energy efficient and green living homes and with so many new buyers hitting the market, these energy star appliances and low cost energy savings are top priority in many homebuyers minds. Here are some things to look for in an energy efficient home.

Heating and cooling. –  Check for energy star appliances and low emissions furnaces and air conditioners, heat pumps, water heaters and general appliances in the home. You can also check the location of the house; homes that face the South can be warmer in the winter and therefore consume less energy than North facing homes. Trees and lush landscaping can help conserve heat in the winter times as well and low-lying evergreens and shrubs on the sides of homes can conserve heat to the foundation and therefore to the piping.

Pay attention to the home inspection. Inspectors will be able to tell you if the home meets a satisfactory installation for an energy efficient home.

Check doors and windows for effective weatherstripping and seals. If door jams, seals, and insulation around windows and doors is broken or missing you may be losing cool air in the summer and warmer air in the winter.

Check for low flow fixtures and toilets that use less energy and less water. Check the pressure in faucets and showerheads. There needs to be enough to get the job done but not so much that you’re wasting water rapidly down the drain.

Look for eco-friendly carpets, paint and building materials. Tankless water heaters can also save space and energy plus solar panels and geothermal systems can provide alternate energy sources for your home.

Ask the inspector or listing agent when the last energy audit was conducted on the home if any. Ask for past energy bills to get a sense of what you will be paying in the future for this home. Also ask about furnace and air conditioning maintenance servicing; if appliances are maintained frequently or consistently it can help with general overall energy costs.

Even the smallest detail that you can control such as light bulbs, are a factor. Replacing all the light bulbs in a home can be costly so try to take a peek at the light bulbs currently in the home and then compare the energy costs.

For more information on energy-efficient homes for sale in Naples Florida and more details on how to buy a green home call our office today. We would be happy to offer you information and tips on today’s energy-efficient properties.