In the sweltering heat of summers, the demand for energy-efficient homes is rising in tandem with Florida energy bills. But, what if there’s a way to not only beat the heat but also reduce energy consumption? As record temperatures become the new normal, it’s crucial to design homes that are not only stylish and comfortable but also energy-efficient.
It’s Getting Hot In Here
Summer 2023 was Florida’s hottest summer on record. Although the average daily temperature in Miami was 86.5 degrees, South Florida broke 74 warm records and recorded previously unseen ocean temperatures of 101 degrees.
The Impact of Record Temperatures on Energy Consumption
In what is likely news to no one, record temperatures mean that more home dwellers are turning on their air conditioners more often and at lower temperatures to beat the persistent heat. According to the International Energy Agency, for every 1-degree rise in temperature over 75 degrees Fahrenheit, energy demand increases by 4 percent. Power grids in the Southeastern United States, which includes Miami, reached peak demands during the summer.
Designing An Energy-Efficient Home
Designing an energy-efficient home involves a holistic approach that considers various elements to minimize energy consumption and environmental impact. Key strategies include optimizing the building envelope with proper insulation and energy-efficient windows and doors, selecting reflective and cool roofing materials, sealing air leaks, and ensuring balanced ventilation.
Integrating renewable energy sources like solar power, high-efficiency HVAC systems, and smart thermostats further enhances efficiency. Thoughtful landscaping choices, such as shade trees and rainwater harvesting, contribute to energy savings. Compliance with local building codes and energy audits ensures performance standards are met. Additionally, exploring financial incentives and calculating return on investment can make energy-efficient upgrades more accessible and financially viable, ultimately resulting in a sustainable and comfortable home.
Looking To The Past To Design Homes of the Future
Environmental Science Professor Jack Parker of Florida International University built his 1984 Miami home using a technique known as “passive cooling”. The technique takes advantage of South Florida’s natural cooling functions by focusing on reducing heat gain and controlling heat dissipation. Cooling buildings by reducing heat gain may be done by installing insulation and shading windows, walls, and roofs. Heat loss is increased by using earth coupling and encouraging air movement. Earth coupling occurs when concrete floors and sometimes walls are in direct contact with the soil beneath them, drawing up deeper ground temperatures, which naturally cools a home.
Incentives for Energy-Efficient Home Design
Through the Inflation Reduction Act, Miami residents can now earn over $3000 in tax credits and Florida Power and Light (FPL) rebates when they choose to invest in energy-efficient additions. The law, signed by President Biden in August 2022, provides for almost $369 billion for energy-efficient home improvements and renewable energy equipment. Qualifying home improvements include exterior skylights or windows, home energy audits, insulation, and dozens of other improvements. The amount homeowners receive is based on the year the improvements were completed, the type of improvements, and whether or not they meet efficiency requirements.
Are you looking for an energy-efficient Miami home?
Finding an energy-efficient home takes expert knowledge about Miami’s unique climate, local design techniques, and the cosmopolitan city’s exclusive offerings. Miami Signature Homes President and luxury real estate advisor, Mauricio J. Barba is respected throughout his native Miami by clients and colleagues alike; he has logged top honors for elite performance in his field.
Mauricio is connected worldwide but specializes in Coral Gables, Coconut Grove, Key Biscayne, Brickell, Village of Pinecrest, South Miami, Palmetto Bay/Falls area, and the Beaches. This intimate knowledge of the local luxury real estate market is essential to helping buyers find their perfect home.
The Miami Signature Homes team is relatively small compared to its sales volume. That has been important in keeping relationships with clients at a very direct level. Mauricio, Tania, and Vicky, each maintain strong personal connections and professional relationships with all of their clients, many of which have been with the team for decades.
This personal level of service allows each team member to devote individual attention and care to every home sale or search. Assistants are great, but Miami Signature Homes makes sure their principals are the people solely responsible for returning essential calls or emails 24/7, 365 days a year.
If you insist on expertise and dedication throughout one of the most important decisions of your life, call us at 305.439.8311.
Sources:
https://zeroenergyproject.com/build/twelve-steps-affordable-zero-energy-home-construction-design/
https://www.yourhome.gov.au/passive-design/passive-cooling
https://www.sunrun.com/solar-by-state/fl/florida-solar-incentives#
