One design factor that should be included in an energy efficient home built in cold climates is proper insulation. This is essential to prevent heat loss and maintain a comfortable temperature inside the home. Additionally, double or triple glazed windows with low-e coatings should be used to reduce heat loss through windows. Another important design factor is airtight construction to minimize air leakage and drafts. This can be achieved through proper sealing of gaps and cracks in the building envelope. Finally, incorporating passive solar design principles, such as orienting the home to maximize sunlight exposure and using thermal mass to store heat, can help reduce the need for artificial heating in cold climates.
