What is the Best Energy Efficient System to Use?

Every time I'm speaking on the topic of energy efficient home design, and I begin presenting some of the different options of systems (SIP's, ICF's, Geothermal, Wood Basements, etc...) I get this question...and I give the same answer.

"It Depends"

Set Your Priorities 
It depends on your priority.  Let me explain.  First you need to decide if your number one priority is the design layout/function or if it is the implementation of a specific system.  In other words, did you fall in love with the layout or the system (SIP's, ICF's, etc...) first.  Either way it works fine, but each starting point will take you through a slightly different route.


If you start with the design, then you can pick the best system that maximizes the efficiency and cost effectiveness of the overall design.  Pick the system that works best.  Each system has certain features/characteristics that may work well with one design, but no so well with another.


If you start with the system, then you design your home with the idea of maximizing the efficiency and cost effectiveness of that system.  Again, each system has certain features/characteristics that may lend itself to one design direction instead of another.


Either way works, it just depends on your priorities.


Location and costs
Keep in mind that with all of these systems, you will find that different areas of the country will also have an effect on the energy efficiency and cost effectiveness of that system.  One of the factors may come down to cost of delivery of the system itself and the labor costs that will be influenced by the ability to find installers familiar with the system.  If you get a price, no matter how good you may think it is, if the contractor doesn't have experience with the installation of that system, beware.  You can guarantee that price will go up as the contractor uses your project as their learning tool.  If this is your option...don't do it.


Ultimately you will pick a system, using any of the ones listed and more, based on how it works within the overall design/cost of the home.  Do your homework and you will be much further ahead when you start your project...and most importantly, you will be in control.


In any case, using an energy efficient system will give you a much better end product.  You will be living in a much more energy efficient, and green home, that you will be proud of for a long time.


For more information on some of these systems you can visit my website at:
http://www.conceptsindesigns.com