New England is full of beautiful homes from past centuries, which are rich with charm but have a reputation for chilly drafts and high heating bills. You might be surprised to learn that some older homes can be more energy efficient than you think! Homes built before modern heating and air conditioning systems had to rely on thoughtful architectural design and the natural environment to ensure year-round comfort by optimizing airflow, sunlight, and insulation. If you’re considering buying an older home, understanding these design principles can help you notice energy-efficient features that might still be effective today, bringing down costs and decreasing your environmental impact.
As New England temperatures rise, the climate-responsive features of old houses may be prized above newer builds designed for resource-heavy air conditioning.
Orientation and Sunlight Exposure
Older homes were often positioned on their lots with careful attention to sun exposure. Builders took advantage of the sun’s movement across the sky to warm the home in winter and provide natural light while minimizing summer heat. Look for the following signs:
– Large Windows Facing South or Southeast: Homes designed for passive solar heating often feature large windows on the southern side of the home. These windows allow sunlight to stream into the house during the winter months, warming it naturally. In the summer, overhangs or awnings might shield these windows from the sun’s heat. Don’t be afraid to whip out your maps app or a compass at the open house!
– Deep Roof Overhangs: A deep eave or roof overhang can block direct sunlight in the summer, keeping the home cooler, while still allowing sunlight to enter in the winter when the sun is lower in the sky.
Cross-Ventilation and Natural Airflow
Before the days of air conditioning, one of the best ways to cool a house was through cross-ventilation, which allows for a natural flow of air through the home. This is often seen in older homes through strategic window placements and breezeways. Here’s what to look for:
– Windows Positioned Across from One Another: In older homes, windows were often placed directly across from one another on opposite sides of rooms or hallways. This allows for the wind to pass through the house, cooling it naturally on warm days. Check for double-hung windows that can be opened at both the top and bottom for maximum airflow, especially if you have young children or pets who could access a window opening from the bottom.
– Large Central Hallways or Breezeways: If you find a home with wide, open hallways or even a breezeway connecting rooms, this could be an intentional design feature meant to allow air to flow freely through the house.
Homes that feature purposeful airflow were designed to work with natural breezes to keep the air circulating, especially in areas with mild climates. As New England temperatures rise, these features may be prized above newer builds designed for resource-heavy air conditioning.
Thermal Mass and Insulation
In older homes, thermal mass—the ability of materials to absorb, store, and slowly release heat—was an important consideration for retaining heat, especially during long cold New England winters. As temperatures rise, high thermal mass can also keep the heat out, reducing cooling costs. Stone, brick, and thick plaster walls were commonly used to maintain a stable indoor temperature. These materials can absorb heat during the day and release it at night, helping to moderate temperature fluctuations.
– Thick Walls and Brick Construction: Look for homes with stone, brick, or heavy masonry walls. These materials have high thermal mass, helping the home retain warmth in the winter and stay cooler in the summer. If the home has thick plaster walls, it could also be a sign that it was built with insulation in mind.
– Wood or Stone Flooring: These materials help with insulation and can keep the temperature regulated in the home.
Shading and Landscaping
Landscaping around older homes was often used to reduce heat and protect the house