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There are energy-efficient options when building a cottage. Select green building materials, high-performance insulation, and energy-efficient windows when designing your cottage. Options such as solar panels, efficient HVAC systems, and LED lighting can lower your utility bills and reduce your environmental impact. Many builders offer energy-efficient upgrades as part of the design process.

Absolutely! Especially if you have an older home that currently doesn’t have air conditioning where installing ductwork just wouldn't work. No one likes being hot in the warmer months, so if you’re looking to sell your home in the near future, installing a ductless mini-split AC can be a good way to enjoy your home more while you’re in it, boost the return on your sale, and serve as a perk to peak buyers’ interest.

A blower door test shouldn’t take more than an hour, and most can be completed in less than 30 minutes. Expect the test to take longer once you start searching for leaks with thermal imaging or want to include sealing such leaks in the time estimate. The test doesn’t take much time and can’t be rushed, but it will take longer in large homes or those with many air leaks.

If you install LED bulbs, they will use much less energy than incandescent bulbs. LED light strips also use less power. Battery-operated puck lights use no electricity at all, but you will need to replace the batteries as needed. They are beneficial if your power goes out, too, as they will remain on as a light source.