Small Home Building Ideas -

Energy Efficiency, Energy Independence & Tiny homes builder There is a movement afoot. Small is not only beautiful but practical. Cars are becoming more efficient and often smaller but the small home plan has been flourishing since long before. But, is energy efficiency guaranteed when you build from a small house plan? Can you feel secure that you've done your job just by choosing to build a small home? Energy Efficiency Isn't Just About Size There's no question that the energy it takes to run a smaller home is less than what is required for a larger home. Just like bigger cars vs. smaller cars. But, is it efficient? Not necessarily. If you're trying to keep your monthly energy costs down, you can look at two distinctly different approaches. First, is energy efficiency and the second is energy independence by generating "free" energy. Let's look at both for a moment. ENERGY EFFICIENCY These are the more common energy and cost saving approaches that most everyone can employ to some degree or another. They include: High quality windows & doors Well insulated floors, walls, and ceilings Energy Star (efficient) appliances and HVAC systems Low wattage and time regulated lighting Well insulated and regulated hot water delivery and usage House framing techniques that eliminate energy/heat loss Smaller designs, yes small does require less energy ENERGY INDEPENDENCE We're talking about something very different from energy efficiency here. One ore more of these could be the best ways to lower your energy bills on a monthly basis but typically these require a much larger up front investment. Solar powered homes Geo-thermal heating and cooling Wind power augmentation Naturally, there are more ways to generate energy and "free" is a subjective term. A lot of the advice about free energy is bogus. As I've already alluded to, free comes with an upfront price tag and often with recurring delivery and maintenance costs. But, if you are willing and able, the long term benefits can be outstanding. Very little of these ideas are dependent upon the size of your home. Take a Practical Combined Approach When I advise people building or remodeling, I usually advise using a combination approach. A completely energy independent home is not practical for most people in most home building markets. And it may be very difficult to find a lender who will finance a home that is "off the grid" or not serviced by the local utilities. Instead, use an approach that strikes a balance between your desire to pay no utility bills and your ability to afford larger upfront costs. If you do, whether you build a small or large home, you'll be in good shape.