Home buyers today are looking for more than just a roof over their heads; they want a home that is eco-friendly and will save them money on utility bills. According to a survey by the National Association of Home Builders, energy efficiency is the second most popular green feature that homebuyers want in a new home, with 59% of respondents saying they would pay more for it.
Fortunately, new construction homes are becoming more energy efficient thanks to advances in building materials and technology. Here are some of the ways that new homes are being designed for energy efficiency:
Better Insulation
Insulation is one of the biggest factors in a home’s energy efficiency. Good insulation keeps heat in during the winter and out during the summer, so your HVAC system doesn’t have to work as hard (and use as much energy) to maintain a comfortable temperature. Today’s insulation is better than ever, thanks to improvements in material science. Some of the most popular insulation materials include fiberglass, cellulose, and spray foam.
Double-Paned Windows
Another way to improve a home’s energy efficiency is to upgrade from single-paned windows to double-paned windows. Double-paned windows have two layers of glass with a space in between that is sealed with argon or krypton gas. This gas acts as an insulator, keeping the heat in during the winter and out during the summer. In addition to improved insulation, double-paned windows reduce noise pollution from outside traffic or neighbors.
Energy Star Appliances
Appliances account for a significant amount of energy usage in the home, so it stands to reason that upgrading to energy-efficient appliances can have a big impact on your home’s overall energy efficiency. Look for appliances that are certified by Energy Star—a program run by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the Department of Energy—to be sure you’re getting the most efficient model available. Some appliance manufacturers now offer “energy saver” models that use even less energy than standard Energy Star models.
As you can see, there are many ways that new construction homes are being designed for improved energy efficiency. If you’re in the market for a new home, be sure to ask your builder about what features have been included to make your new home as energy efficient as possible. A little extra upfront can save you money on utility bills for years to come!