What exactly is and how we can achieve it?
Energy saving and energy efficiency of a building, is an issue that has begun to concern us to a greater extent, nowadays. The concept of the energy efficient building, i.e. a building that consumes less energy to heat and cool, has become a “trend” in recent times, both due to economic need and ecological sensitivity.
Firstly though, we should explain what exactly energy efficiency is. The energy performance of a building is the amount of energy consumed or estimated to meet the various needs associated with the normal usage of the building, which may include, but are not limited to, heating, hot water production, cooling, ventilation and lighting. This quantity is expressed by one or more numerical indicators which have been calculated based on the insulation, technical characteristics and characteristics of the installation, design and location of the building in relation to climatic factors, sun exposure, the influence of neighboring structures as well as its energy production, and the climatic conditions inside the building. Therefore, the Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) classifies buildings into energy categories with a scale from A to H, where category A represents the highest energy performance of a building.
In order to be able to have an energy-efficient house, we must apply specific techniques during its construction, where their main purpose will be to save energy, as well as, to use environmentally friendly materials.
The correct orientation of each space, the well-targeted canopies, the proper insulation of the building, as well as the use of modern systems of renewable energy sources (photovoltaics, solar water heater, energy fireplaces, etc.), are some necessary conditions to ensure an energy autonomous residence. With the right materials and expertise of a qualified manufacturer, we can achieve minimum energy consumption! However, as there is not always the possibility to acquire or build a house from scratch, we can improve at any time we want its energy profile, with specific construction interventions as well as with technical and household appliances that have a positive impact on its daily operation.
Hereunder, you will find some ways that can improve the energy efficiency of a building:
- Instead of classic electricity, opt for alternative forms of energy, such as natural gas.
- Use energy-saving lamps that consume 4-5 times less energy than simple incandescent lamps. In fact, did you know that their use reduces the annual cost of electricity by 10-12 euros per lamp?
- Invest in electrical appliances with energy class “A” (or A+), which are more environmentally friendly and certainly more economical to use.
- In the summer set the temperature of your air conditioner to 26°C.
- Choose solar water heater. We live in a country with severe sunshine and so we can cover by 40-80% the domestic needs for hot water.
- Check for any thermal losses from the burner or solar panel, as well as for leaks in the air conditioning system. You will have greater energy savings.
- Replace the frames of your home, in order to have even better insulation and therefore fewer leaks in heating.
- Operate electrical appliances at lower temperatures, and make sure to turn them completely off (do not leave them on standby) when not in use. You will consume even less electricity.
