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You may have heard the term “energy-efficient” before. Energy efficiency is a concept on the rise. Many companies that build homes across the country are getting in on this trend.
If you look at Chesmar Homes floor plans, for instance, you’ll see several components that make them energy-efficient. This is far from the only company that’s exploring these concepts.
We’ll talk about components that make a home energy-efficient right now. You should be on the lookout for these if you’re thinking about buying a new home in the near future.
Foam Padding
If you’re looking at new homes, you should note whether the ones you’re checking out have foam padding in areas like the basement.
Cracks around basement walls are ideal places for heat to leak out in the winter when you have the furnace on. If you buy a home that has spray foam installed around the places where heat or cool air escape, that’s an energy-efficient design element.
A Tankless Water Heater
A tankless water heater is thought to be more efficient than one with a tank. If you look down in the basement of a home you’re considering, you can see whether there’s a tankless water heater or not.
Even if you don’t see one, you can still remove the existing one and install a tankless version. They don’t cost all that much these days.
Airtight Windows
A house with older windows can be inefficient. If you feel around a window and notice a draft, that’s a sure sign you’re losing warm or cool air in that spot.
You can replace a home’s windows and get tighter seals. That makes the domicile more energy-efficient.
A Newer Air Conditioner
If you get a house with central air, check to see how old the unit is. Older ones might not function so well anymore.
Getting a new central air unit is an easy way to make your home more energy-efficient. You can usually get one for anywhere from $3,800-$7,500, on average.
A New Furnace
A new furnace can make your home more energy-efficient too. Older furnace models are not likely to work so well, and getting a new one should save you money every year. You can even get a hefty government rebate in some cases if you buy one of the newest and best-rated ones.
Weatherstripping
You can look for weatherstripping around a home’s windows and doors when you’re on the hunt for a new place to live.
Even if you don’t see weatherstripping, you can usually install some easily enough. If you’re not comfortable doing it yourself, you can also hire a professional to come do it.
Look Into Solar Panels
You might see whether the homes you’re looking at have solar panels. They are considered to be energy-efficient.
Solar panels get energy right from the sun, and they also help to curb greenhouse gas emissions. Buying and installing them means you’re doing your part for the environment, which should make you feel good.
