Advantages of Energy Efficient Design

We are committed to implementing sustainable design in both our MLA Smarthomes and in all of our other commissioned work. Sustainable – or energy-efficient – design will lower utility bills substantially, conserve energy resources, and benefit the environment. Homes can be designed in a variety of ways to use less energy.

Passive Solar Characteristics

Passive solar design uses simple building features that work with the environment to reduce or even eliminate the need for mechanical cooling and heating, as well as daytime artificial lighting. learn more

Geothermal Heating and Cooling

Below the surface of the earth, the temperature remains constant. In New York, it’s always in the low 50’s. A geothermal system uses the ground’s stable temperature as a source for heat in the winter and a means of eliminating excess heat in the summer. The system circulates fluid between the building and the ground through pipes. In the hotter months, the pipes funnel heat into the ground. In the winter, they moves heat from the ground up to the house. Pumps alternate between cycles of vaporization and condensation to either absorb or release heat. learn more

Alternative Roofing Systems

There are two alternative roof systems for energy-saving homes: Cool roof systems are highly reflective and able to transmit a lot of thermal energy. They are smooth and light-colored and stay up to 70% cooler than conventional roofs. Green roof systems consist of vegetation and soil planted over a waterproofing membrane. On hot days, the surface temperature of a green roof can be cooler than the air temperature, whereas the surface of a traditional roof can be up to 90 degrees warmer. learn more

Photovoltaic Panels

Photovoltaic (PV) panels generate electricity from the sun, and inexhaustible and clean alternative to fossil fuels that pollute our air and water, threaten our health and contribute to global warming. learn more