Energy-efficient homes in Canada

Canadians are increasingly considering energy-efficient renovations due to rising energy costs and global warming issues. The upfront cost is often the biggest barrier to homeowners committing to these renovations. To find the best energy consumption solution for your home, you can use the advantage of hiring professionals in your local area. But first, let's explore what makes a passive house better than its counterparts.

What are energy-efficient homes?

Pondering on how to plan their energy-efficient home projects, many homeowners seek advice from architects experienced in this field. They are generally projects that decrease energy consumption:

1. High-quality window installation. You have many options to improve the energy efficiency of your windows by reducing the number of thermal bridges. You can make your home more comfortable and save energy by replacing the entire frame with high-quality profiles and windows.
2. Home insulation. Insulating your home can reduce heat loss and help you save money. Professional contractors can install insulation of the attic, outer walls wrapping, or basement insulation. Having insulated walls and roofs can significantly reduce the amount of energy needed to keep the home comfortable temperature. In fact, this is the first step required to introduce energy-efficient technologies. Without good insulation at home, all further efforts will be in vain.
3. Air sealing. Air sealing is one of the most important retrofits you can do to increase energy efficiency. Heat-recovery ventilation installing should be considered in your retrofit strategy.
4. Thermostats. Thermostats can also be part of the smart home system. They improve comfort, save you money on energy bills, and help reduce carbon emissions. A smart or programmable thermostat can be adjusted to the comfort temperature to energy-saving times.
5. Water and space heating system installation. Canada's cold climate means space heating accounts for more than 60% of the energy used in an average Canadian home. A combination water and space heating system, also known as an integrated system is an efficient way to heat water and provide heat in one system. Such systems combine the benefits of two separate heating technologies and can be customized to fit the needs of each home. The main benefit of an integrated system is that it is cost-effective and can be installed in any home. 
6. Renewable energy systems. Renewable energy refers to the energy that is derived from natural processes and is replenished at a rate equal, or faster than that of its consumption. This refers primarily to solar photovoltaic panel installation that converts sunlight directly into electricity. Consider installing solar panels on the roof. The use of solar panels is a cost-effective way to produce energy. The creation of independent energy sources for your house is popular for new homes in Canada, but it is still a bit expensive. 

Consider additional retrofits if you're planning your home improvements. These could protect your family and home from any environmental damage.
The most relevant projects in Canada involve the installation of ductless heat pumps, which are as efficient as heating solutions using natural gas but are cheaper for homeowners and leave a smaller carbon footprint.

What is the cost of installing energy-efficient home systems?

Homeowners can take several months to plan and install green home systems. Green renovations can seem daunting at first, but they almost always pay off in the long-term energy savings.
According to a study by the National Association of Home Builders, energy-efficient system installation is just CAD $5000 more expensive than standard home renovations. This was concluded in a 2019 National Association of Home Builders report. Your home's energy efficiency is a win-win solution. You could be spending only $250 per year for your utilities if you take care of installing a zero energy home in advance. This can help you save up to CAD $26 billion a year in wasted energy.
Nowadays, it is not a difficult task to install energy-efficient appliances, insulation, and renewable energy systems. The average cost of installation work on an energy-efficient house project remains in the range from CAD $35 to $70 per hour. it's also important to maintain them regularly.
A passive home that is designed to conserve energy will not only save you money, but it will also protect the environment. And while you're saving money, you'll be keeping your family will stay comfortable and safe. Eventually, you will get a home that is energy-efficient so that you can save money while protecting the environment.