Saving the Planet
The days are drawing in and thoughts turn to long winter evenings by the fire, or more likely these days, in temperature controlled houses. Heating costs loom high on the budget and ways to minimise these are essential. The days of cold, draughty evenings huddled round a coal fire are long gone- as have the frightening costs of oil heating attempting to warm a house that still lets in the cold from every corner. As a nation we are mindful of reducing our carbon footprint at the same time as reducing our own costs. It may be capital needs investing initially but the long term saving is advantageous in all respects. Well insulated houses with double -or triple glazing – thermostat radiators monitored individually are obvious. Modern technology allows a house to be controlled remotely via apps which is no longer the stuff of science fiction! Going a stage further solar energy, ground source heat pumps, hydro power- if you have a running water source – and ultimately a full Passivhaus (Passive House) – a rigorous, voluntary standard for energy efficiency in a building, reducing it’s ecological footprint. The result is ultra low energy buildings that require little energy for space heating or cooling. A larger capital investment with minimal running costs thereafter so environmentally effective and financially beneficial. The government encourages investment in ecologically sound heating with schemes for installation and possibilities to sell unused energy back through the national grid.
Generally new build houses are designed to maximise the green credentials for practicality, and to comply with ever increasing building regulations, as older houses prove too great a challenge to effectively create a true low energy house. However, incorporating new build extensions to old and sometimes Listed houses combines the best of all worlds. Midships in West Alvington near Kingsbridge is such a property. A juxtaposition of traditional Victorian elevation typical of Devon villages from the road with an architect designed contemporary home behind, including four car garage -a premium in a village house. (Marchand Petit 01548 857588). A new build commanding expansive views across North Devon yet just three miles from Exeter is offered by Strutt and Parker (01392 215361). The Vista, Longdown, with ground source heat pump, high energy saving glass and insulation all designed to minimise fossil fuel heating requirements. Modern construction allows houses to maximise the amazing views Devon offers whilst previous generations accepted minimal window openings to preserve heat. A somewhat more contemporary house- Humblebee, Highweek, Newton Abbot, is offered by Savills (01392 455755). A private gated development of eleven homes with rainwater harvesting, solar panels and air filter with heat recovery system ensure this four bedroom family home is eco friendly and economic to run enjoying the open plan accommodation -the cantilevered sweeping staircase is a focal point in the reception hall.
We all have a duty to preserve our wonderful environment for future generations – it’s not just about economics - “it’s all about coming home”.