Drawing attention to energy efficiency on the occasion of October 31 World Savings Day, Industrial Engineer Assoc. Prof. Dr. Muhammet Enis Bulak said, “Effective thermal insulation should be applied in buildings; heat loss in areas such as exterior facades, roofs, and windows should be minimized.”
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Bulak also emphasized that thermal insulation in buildings provides an average reduction of 30 to 50 percent in energy costs, stating, “Exterior facade insulation can reduce heat losses by approximately 40 percent, and roof insulation by an additional 20 percent. With window and joinery insulation, a total energy saving of up to 50 percent is possible.”
Acting Director of Uskudar University Institute of Science, Deputy Head of Industrial Engineering Department at the Faculty of Engineering and Natural Sciences, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Muhammet Enis Bulak, drew attention to energy efficiency on the occasion of October 31 World Savings Day.
Most heat loss occurs through exterior walls, windows, and roofs
Stating that the majority of heat loss in residences in Turkey occurs through exterior walls, windows, and roof sections, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Bulak said, “Walls without insulation, single-glazed windows, and insufficient roof insulation significantly reduce energy efficiency. Furthermore, air leaks and deficiencies in floor insulation increase total heat loss, raising heating costs.”
Significant savings possible with simple measures
Listing the most effective measures that can be taken to save energy during winter months, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Bulak said, “Effective thermal insulation should be applied in buildings; heat loss in areas such as exterior facades, roofs, and windows should be minimized. Increasing the sealing of windows and doors, using thermostatic valves and room thermostats, enhances the efficiency of the heating system. Utilizing sunlight during the day, closing curtains at night to retain warm air indoors, performing regular boiler maintenance, keeping radiators clean, and opting for energy-efficient appliances reduce heating costs.”
Windows are a critical point in energy efficiency
Reminding that window and door systems account for approximately 20–25 percent of total heat loss, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Muhammet Enis Bulak said, “Double-glazed, argon gas-filled windows and thermally insulated frames significantly reduce heat loss. Loose hinges or faulty installations create drafts, preventing savings. Especially in apartment entrances and balcony doors, a double-door system prevents warm air from escaping, increasing comfort. For exterior doors, insulated steel or composite doors should be preferred; weatherstrips should be used at the bottom threshold. Particularly, using double doors in apartment entrances or balcony doors prevents warm air from escaping.”
Smart thermostats provide energy savings
Emphasizing that technological solutions make a significant contribution to energy efficiency, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Bulak continued:
“Achieving energy savings of approximately 8 to 20 percent through smart thermostats and automation systems can be considered a reasonable expectation. In situations where suitable conditions are met, meaning the heating system operates efficiently, user habits are conscious, and building insulation is in good condition, this rate can increase to levels of 20-30 percent. However, merely replacing the thermostat alone does not yield a high increase in efficiency. The integrated operation of the system, user behavior, and the physical characteristics of the building are the fundamental elements determining the extent of savings.”
Is the “Building Energy Performance Regulation” applied in new buildings sufficient?
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Muhammet Enis Bulak pointed out that the “Building Energy Performance Regulation (BEPY)” is an important regulation aimed at increasing energy efficiency in new and existing buildings in Turkey, stating, “Under this regulation, it has been made mandatory for new buildings to meet at least the C energy class standard and to obtain an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC). Furthermore, technical criteria related to the heat transfer coefficients of building elements such as walls, roofs, and windows, as well as the performance of heating, cooling, and ventilation systems, have been determined. However, despite these technical regulations, it does not seem possible for the regulation to achieve the targeted level of energy efficiency if users do not gain awareness and habits regarding energy saving.”
Long-lasting systems should be created in insulation
Pointing out that when choosing insulation materials, products resistant to water and moisture, fire-resistant, and with high sound insulation capacity should be preferred, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Muhammet Enis Bulak said, “By determining the appropriate material type and thickness for the application area, long-lasting and minimum maintenance systems should be created. In addition to being economically efficient, the selection of environmentally friendly and recyclable materials is important for sustainability. This way, energy savings are achieved while reducing the environmental impact of structures. For exterior facades and roofs, low permeability materials should be preferred, while breathable materials (e.g., rock wool) should be chosen for interior spaces.”
Up to 50% energy savings possible
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Bulak also emphasized that thermal insulation in buildings provides an average reduction of 30 to 50 percent in energy costs, stating, “Exterior facade insulation can reduce heat losses by approximately 40 percent, and roof insulation by an additional 20 percent. With window and joinery insulation, a total energy saving of up to 50 percent is possible. These improvements not only reduce bills but also contribute to environmental sustainability by cutting carbon emissions by 30–40 percent. Therefore, a well-planned insulation system provides significant benefits both economically and ecologically.”