With more than half of winter behind us and energy costs still a concern, keeping your home energy-efficient remains a top priority. The 2024 updates to Alberta’s Building Codes are raising the bar for energy efficiency, providing homeowners and builders with smarter ways to save energy and reduce their environmental footprint. As we navigate the rest of the season, here’s how these changes can benefit you—plus practical tips to keep your home warm and efficient.
Key Building Code Updates
- Energy Efficiency Tiers: Alberta has adopted Tier 1 as the province-wide minimum for energy efficiency. Builders can opt for higher tiers, but Tier 1 ensures a baseline standard for sustainability and energy savings.
- Improved Window Performance: The new requirements for glazed assemblies do focus on lower U-values, promoting the use of triple-glazed windows with low-emissivity (low-E) coatings to reduce heat loss.
- Airtightness Testing: At Tier 2, airtightness testing is mandatory to minimize uncontrolled air leakage, which improves indoor comfort and reduces heating costs.
- High-Performance Furnaces: The minimum Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE) for furnaces has increased from 92% to 95%, and the use of electronically commutated motors (ECM) is required. This upgrade ensures better energy efficiency and performance.
Tips to Improve Energy Efficiency in Your Home
- Seal Air Leaks: Inspecting and sealing gaps around windows, doors, and vents is a cost-effective way to prevent drafts. Weather stripping and caulking are recommended solutions.
- Upgrade Insulation: Adding insulation in your attic or basement can help retain heat and reduce your reliance on heating systems.
- Install a Programmable Thermostat: This can save energy by automatically adjusting the temperature when you’re not home.
- Switch to LED Lighting: LED bulbs use up to 75% less energy than incandescent bulbs and last much longer.
- Consider Energy-Efficient Windows: Investing in triple-glazed options with low-E coatings can significantly reduce heat loss.
- Maintain Your Furnace: Regular maintenance, like cleaning or replacing filters, ensures your furnace runs efficiently.
Alberta’s updated building codes are paving the way for more energy-efficient homes that save money and reduce environmental impact. Whether you’re building a new home or upgrading your current one, these tips and regulations can help you achieve a warmer, greener winter.
For more details on the building code changes, check out this Reference: