What Makes New Homes More Energy Efficient?
They just don’t make homes like they used to. In fact, they’re even better these days! With advancements in technology and innovations in home building, building a new home provides homeowners with more efficiency and less energy consumption, which could mean big savings in utility costs over time. According to the Energy Information Administration (EIA), homes built in the United States after the year 2000 are significantly more energy efficient than those built before then. Because of the savings in energy and money, more and more homeowners are purchasing new builds over older homes.
Why are new homes more energy efficient?
In the past, we simply didn’t have the materials and products to build homes that focused on being energy-efficient while still being affordable and comfortable. Electricity and natural gas were much less expensive and the cost to heat and cool your home was nothing compared to what it is today. Because of this, energy-efficient measures, such as building a well-insulated home, just weren’t necessary. However, as electricity costs skyrocket, so does the need for energy efficiency. These days, homeowners are constantly looking for ways to reduce their energy usage and monthly utility costs. Fortunately, advancements in home building, along with new building and energy codes, make having an energy efficient home attainable and affordable.
So, what exactly is it that makes new homes so much more appealing and energy efficient?
Energy-Efficient Upgrades
Energy-efficient upgrades, materials, and other building products may not seem like upgrades at all. In some cases, they may seem pretty standard for most homes. That’s because new builds are all equipped with windows, doors, HVAC systems, appliances, and more that are specifically designed to keep homes as energy-efficient as possible. Before the focus on energy efficiency, most homes were built with single-pane windows and little insulation. You actually lose quite a bit of energy through single-pane windows, which can cause your utility costs to increase. Fortunately, most new homes come with multi-pane windows that can actually reduce your utility costs by as much as 50 percent. Most new builds also come with Energy Star® certified appliances, such as kitchen appliances, water heaters, AC units and lighting that are designed to consume less energy.
Better Build
In addition to newer appliances, better windows, and energy-efficient heating, cooling, and lighting systems, builders have significantly improved their building styles over the years. The layout of each home, including the flow and ductwork, is specifically designed to make the floorplan more energy-efficient. Tight construction ensures that drafts, moisture, pollen, and other airborne irritants are greatly reduced in the home, improving its air quality and making it more comfortable. New homes also focus on providing better insulation to reduce the use of heating and cooling systems in the home. In some regions, HVAC systems may not be required at all, thanks to high-quality, properly installed insulation.
Everyone Deserves a Chesmar Home
If you’re in the market for a new home in Houston, Dallas, Austin, or San Antonio, then make sure Chesmar Homes is at the top of your list of builders to consider. We offer a variety of beautiful single and two-story home models that feature raised ceilings, open floor plans, all major kitchen appliances, and more. What’s more, we use the latest in energy saving materials to ensure your new home is as energy efficient as possible. For more information, contact one of our friendly and knowledgeable associates or visit a design center in one of our beautiful neighborhoods.