There are many reasons to want to live in an eco-friendly home. For many it is knowing you rely on a minimal amount of energy, for others it is to ensure water is conserved or only renewable substances are used in building materials. When you desire eco-friendly living, how do you go about it?
1 – Think small
Thinking small can be a big first step in the process. Why pay to heat or cool a home when you aren’t using half of the rooms? The spaces we spend most of our time in these days are the kitchen and living areas. Having a smaller home where you live in the whole home makes so much more sense than paying to maintain rooms you never use.
2 – Design your spaces for the environment
Sun, weather and views all play a part in how to best position your home on your site. Situate your new home to take advantage of the site’s aspect. It is best to have your living areas facing north to gain advantage of the sun’s natural light, and then strategically placed windows and doors that provide cross breezes, keeping your home cool. A designer can help you place your home to get the most out of your site’s advantages.
3 – Add solar
Adding some solar panels can ensure that the majority of your power comes from the sun. The payback period will vary depending on where you live, the tariffs you pay and receive, and how much power you use. Typically, you’re looking at 4 to 5 years. Of course, the longer you stay in a home with solar, the more savings you will receive.
4 – And a battery
Taking solar a step further, if you add a battery, then whatever power you do not use during the day is stored in your battery. Your battery provides the storage of electricity for the time when you can’t get power from the sun, such as at night or dreary, wet days. Funky Little Shack has an advanced eco pack which includes a solar battery system.
5 – Reduce water
Capture water from the roof and store it in a water tank. Then you can use this water for your garden, and reduce your water bill at the same time. Add an automated watering system so there is very little time you need to spend in the garden other than picking food for your meals.
Our Funky Little Shacks are rated 6 stars for efficiency. Please contact one of our friendly team to discuss your eco-friendly (Funky) next home.