Get the windows right
Rather than spending money on big furnaces or cooling systems, and paying big energy bills every month, like a lifetime sentence, invest instead in high quality modern windows and good insulation for walls and ceilings. Most heating and cooling systems are significantly oversized to compensate for poor building envelopes. A key to moving a building to net zero energy is to understand the importance of window decisions. Even modern double or triple pane windows allow a lot of energy to escape.
Many of us like big windows and natural light, but we can be a little strategic. Be selective about large windows. Use walkouts to increase opportunities for outdoor living. Use reflectors and other architectural tricks to increase natural light inside. Use shades and landscaping to reduce heat gain. The best modern windows open easily during temperate weather, and seal properly when it’s very hot or cold.
Photos BF Nagy, bfnagy.com, #windows. #manwithaplan, #cleanenergy, clean energy, green building, save energy, climate change, sustainability.