Energy-Efficient New Construction Makes Sense in Texas
The Lone Star State is well-known for its blistering summers and mild winters, which makes energy-efficient housing all the more important. That’s why new home communities like Pecan Square by Hillwood, in Northlake TX, utilize sustainability principles and procedures in all their new home construction. Every home at Pecan Square is built to conserve resources and be energy efficient.
We prioritize working with energy-efficient home builders who have made a commitment to go the extra mile in creating environmentally conscious homes that use less energy. Whether this is achieved through participation in the Environments For Living (EFL) program or another energy-conscious certification, the benefits of an eco-friendly home are numerous.
What is an Energy-Efficient Home?
An energy-efficient home is designed to reduce energy consumption from top to bottom. It will be built using materials, appliances, and fixtures created to conserve resources. This means energy-conscious homeowners will enjoy lower utility bills. But just because a home is energy-efficient, doesn’t mean it compromises on aesthetics or comfort. In fact, energy efficiency improves the livability of a residence by reducing energy bills and keeping rooms cooler in the summer months. This allows homeowners to spend more time inside during hotter days. What’s more, opting for Energy Star certified construction can help boost the resale value of your home by 15-20% in some cases.
Building an Energy-Efficient Home
New home communities and new home builders alike have an opportunity to chart the future of energy-saving homes. This means prioritizing four key principles of building science, a considerate approach to home building that views the entire house as an integrated whole made up of separate systems all working in harmony together. These key principles are:
Energy Efficiency: Tight construction seals penetrations and reduces internal drafts, while enhanced insulation helps minimize voids and gaps. Low “emissivity” windows utilize protective coatings to keep heat in during winter and out during summer, and at least 60% of all hard-wired lights are compact fluorescent or LED, reducing overall home energy consumption.
Durability: Air barrier continuity reduces the potential for moisture to enter the building. This is achieved by utilizing correct venting design, pressure balancing, fresh air ventilation, and “right-sized” HVAC equipment to reduce moisture from daily activities like cooking and showering. Additional steps can be taken to reduce future material needs, like repainting or reframing: this is achieved by special framing techniques which reduce lumber requirements, and interior paints that increase product longevity.
Indoor Environmental Quality: Even temperatures throughout the day are a crucial ingredient in energy efficiency and can be achieved by effectively balancing air pressure throughout the home. Additionally, carbon monoxide buildup can be avoided by sealing and power-venting combustion appliances and installing CO detectors. Enhanced filtration systems (like an approved electronic air cleaner) provide extra protection from contaminants, and low-VOC (Volatile Organic Compounds) interior paints and carpets reduce indoor pollutants.
Water Efficiency: Regardless of their location in the home, fixtures that conserve water help reduce overall household water consumption. Low-flow faucets and shower heads are a very effective example of this: these technologies, along with water-efficient toilets and dishwashers, use less water and add to overall household water savings without compromising performance.
Do Energy-Efficient Homes Cost More?
While the upfront cost of energy-efficient homes can sometimes be higher than that of traditional homes, the long-term savings are significant. Minimizing energy waste saves money, plain and simple. In fact, the US Department of Energy estimates most American households that utilize energy-efficient building principles could save 25% in utility bills, which can add up to thousands of dollars per year.
In addition, energy-efficient homes often provide a higher level of comfort due to improved temperature regulation and better indoor air quality. As a result, energy-efficient homes are often worth the investment for those who are looking to save money and live more sustainably.
FAQs About Energy-Efficient Homes
Why are eco houses good?
Eco houses are better for the environment because they use fewer resources yet provide greater comfort and air quality for residents and save homeowners money on monthly utility bills.
What makes a house environmentally sustainable?
Environmentally sustainable homes use less energy and water and are built with low-impact materials which will have the least negative impact on the environment. Low impact materials are renewable, recyclable, or sourced from reclaimed or recycled materials.
Are energy-efficient homes worth it?
It is definitely worth it to spend more on an energy-efficient home because you will likely enjoy lower energy bills, a higher resale value, greater comfort, and a healthier environment.
Visit Energy-Efficient New Construction Homes at Pecan Square by Hillwood
Whether you’re looking to build a new home or purchase an existing one, energy efficiency makes sense in Texas – so why not take advantage? If you’re interested in learning more about our new home community in Northlake, visit us at the Greeting House for a tour. We look forward to seeing you soon!