How Open Floor Plans Affect the Energy Efficiency of Your Home

​Long gone are the days of homes with small, boxy rooms and closed off areas. For many years now, open floor plans have been extremely popular in new home construction. Everyone is looking for better “sight lines,” “multi-purpose rooms,” and “great flow.” But what does that mean? 


It may seem strange today, but years ago, closing off rooms was the best way to keep a house warm and save money on utilities. Homes were a series of boxes with doors that could be shut to restrict air flow, assuring that the main room (usually the kitchen or living room) would stay warmer. Heating systems and fireplaces could only heat so much area. However, as central heating became more efficient there was less of a need to close off rooms thus, doors and walls were removed, and open floor plans were designed. 

How does an open floor plan affect the energy efficiency of your home? Read on to find out.

More Sunlight
With an open floor plan, you can enjoy beautiful views in addition to having the sunshine throughout the house. An abundance of sunlight can help to reduce the amount of electricity used during daytime, as this sunlight would be enough to illuminate the entire area. When you have more natural light, you don’t rely on ceiling lights, and your utility bills will be reduced. In the colder months, allowing the windows to warm your house can also lower your heating bills.

Increased Air Circulation
Adding ceiling fans to your open floor plan will allow both warm and cool air (depending on the season) to flow throughout the house. Open windows offer a cross breeze and can reduce energy consumption and cost of utilities. Adequate air flow and ventilation to the entire house minimize the use of air-conditioning and heating systems, making your home more energy efficient. 

Cleaning
Cleaning may seem logical, but it’s important to note. There is a lot of physical and electrical energy when cleaning a home with many rooms. In a house with an open floor plan, having everything in one area and on display means less vacuuming, dusting, etc. This saves on the amount of electrical and physical energy consumed as well as the time needed to clean the space.

BerHoff Homes in Neenah, WI
After more than 30 years of project management experience, John Hofferber knew he wanted to run his own business. In the winter of 2002, with the help of his son-in-law Kurt Wismer, he finally got the chance. They researched their competition and knew that instead of focusing on quantity, they would concentrate on quality. The two of them assure every customer that they will build a house that fits the customer’s needs and wants – a house that can truly be their forever home.

 When you carefully choose your floor plan, HVAC system, and windows, in the long run, you will save money and resources. Your home will be more comfortable, eco-friendly, and better for entertaining.  Call BerHoff Homes to build your dream home today!

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