An advocate of energy efficiency and sustainability, architect Dr Tan Loke Mun invested two years of his time designing and building his residence that has achieved the Platinum rating under Malaysia’s Green Building Index.
Tan believes that comparable measures can be applied to most homes and noted that the returns are worth it despite the expensive start-up investment in the presence of rising electrical and water utilities.
“The cheapest, best and fastest return is to reduce heat gain to the house, especially the roof,” said Tan, who is the ArchiCentre Sdn Bhd Director and former-President Malaysian Institute of Architects (PAM).
“About 70 percent of the heat gain comes through the roof because of the sun and the rest is through the windows.
“The easiest method is to ventilate the roof space — the gap between the ceiling and roofing material — by adding a wind turbine.”
He conveyed that the two wind turbines cost RM700 and between RM1,500 and RM1,800 for an average terrace house.
“To reduce direct sunlight through the windows, use sunshades or plant trees.”
“Those who want to take it a step further can install windows with Low-E (Low Emissivity) glass or double glazing,” he added.
Other green features that Tan has incorporated in his home include a large canopy roof and extended roof, a solar reflective paint and a rainwater harvesting system, as well as ensuring proper home orientation.
“The biggest energy guzzlers in most homes are big pool pumps, air-conditioners and water heaters,” Tan said.
“It will be wise to shop for energy-efficient air-conditioners and refrigerators, and products with inverter technology.”
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