In an era where environmental consciousness is fundamental, the concept of energy efficiency is the base for sustainable living. But what does it mean for the average homeowner in the realm of real estate?
Understanding energy-efficient homes and how can you benefit from them
Energy efficiency isn’t just about saving energy; it’s about using less energy to accomplish the same tasks without compromising comfort or quality.
Therefore, for achieving the same heating or cooling effect in a space, (lighting, preparing domestic hot water) an energy-efficient house will consume much less energy than a house with poor energy properties. All that will make the house more cost-effective for you, the user.
Architect Kristina Eleršek says that by improving the energy properties of a family home, in some cases you can reduce consumption by a whopping 60% compared to the current usage.
Not only that, an energy-efficient buildings are less harmful to the environment. Imagine a home that stays warm in the winter and cool in summer but it consumes less energy. This is the promise of energy-efficient housing.
Turning this promise into reality requires a multi-faceted approach, ranging from comprehensive renovations to simple behavioral changes.
What are the changes that we have to make, what strategies to consider if we want to have an energy-efficient home? Croatian architect Kristina Eleršek suggests concrete steps that we can take to live more sustainably and cost effectively.
Complete energetic restoration
Complete energetic restoration involves upgrading the entire building envelope, says Kristina Eleršek. This includes adding insulation to external walls, roof and floor, replacing windows and doors with ones that have better thermal properties. It also includes installing energy-efficient heating, cooling, hot water systems powered by renewable sources (heat pumps, solar thermal collector systems).
Individual energy renovation measures
Complete energetic restoration can be a great investment, but it costs money. If you have budget constraints, here are several things that can still make a significant difference. For example, you can improve insulation, replace old windows with energy-efficient ones, install a heat pump.
Also, there is a possibility of co-financing the restoration by applying to certain tenders.
Low-cost improvements you can make on your own
Several low-cost measures can enhance energy efficiency, says Zadar based architect Kristina Eleršek.
Firstly, you can replace lighting with compact fluorescent light sources (energy-saving bulbs) and install sun protection (blinds, awnings, internal or external shades).
Furthermore, you can install a mesh that regulates the water jet in faucets and showers and choose devices with an “A” energy class label (refrigerator, washing machine, air conditioner).
Finally, when buying house appliances, you can choose those that have a lower energy consumption and offer the desired efficiency.
Free measures you can take to live more sustainably
Education plays a crucial role in energy conservation. It’s important to familiarize yourself with the installed energy systems and how to use them to utilize energy and water more rationally.
Simple habits like turning off lights when they are not in use can be a first step towards sustainable living. Also, Kristina Eleršek advises to optimize natural ventilation because it can lead to substantial energy savings at no cost.
In the winter, close shutters at night to reduce heat loss, but keep them open during (sunny) days to naturally heat the rooms. When it is possible, use natural lightning.
In the summer, reduce unwanted heat by using sun protection (blinds). Also, depending on the season, turn off heating or cooling at night.
Environmentally conscious interior design
A well-designed home can maximize natural lighting and ventilation while minimizing energy demand.
Garden designer Petra Novak says that lighting is a feature that separates good and great design. Also, it is a feature that affects a lot how we feel in a certain space. Natural lighting as well as fresh air and the sound of birds can help elevate our mood and reduce stress. She suggests using mirrors in out interior work spaces in order to enhance the natural lighting.
The buyer's guide to energy-efficient homes and designs
So, what should you pay attention to when buying a property in Croatia, in the context of energetic efficiency?
Kristina Eleršek advises buyers to ask for an energy certificate of the property. That certificate will provide them with the information on the energy class of the building. The classes are arranged from A+ to G. A+ is the most energetically favorable class while the G class is the least favorable. Also, you should pay attention to the orientation of the building (south as the best option) and natural lighting. Finally, when buying real estate, keep your eyes open for the signs of damp (visible at the junctions of, for example, walls and roofs).
Green technology examples in Croatia
Green technology refers to technology and practices that are designed to have a minimal impact on the environment, both in their production and usage.
In the context of real estate, green technology includes a wide range of innovations and practices that contribute to the construction, operation, and maintenance of environmentally friendly buildings.
For some time now, the construction of real estate in Croatia has been following the practices of green technology. Since December 31, 2020, the law has required that all new buildings must be “nearly zero-energy buildings”.
That law is very important because it obligates the investors to pay more attention to energetic efficiency. A lot of old houses on the Croatian coast has very low efficiency rate but things are improving with the newer real estate.
As you can see, energy efficiency in a house can be improved on multiple levels, with different budgets or even without one.
The key thing is to begin taking it more seriously and start thinking about the future.
Not only can investing in energy-efficient measures be worth your while financially, it can also help this amazing planet we are living on.
Once you buy a property on the gorgeous Croatian coast and see how beautiful our sea is, how lucky we are to breathe such clean air, you will want to preserve it. Not just for your own pleasure but also for the sake of generations to come.
If you need any help in finding an energy efficient home on the Croatian coast, contact us, we will gladly help you find “THE ONE”!
Photos: Pexels, private archive.
