Energy Efficiency for Houses: Tips for Conscious Buyers

If you’re in the market for a new home and are a conscious buyer, you’re not alone. Many people are shifting towards choosing to be aware of the environmental and energy efficiency impact of large purchases such as vehicles and houses. When it comes to houses, many technology advances have been made that not only lowers utility bills, but also provide greater comfort, reduce environmental impact, and often hold higher resale value.

This guide explores the essentials of energy efficiency for houses to help conscious buyers make informed decisions. From identifying key features to checking certifications, we’ll cover everything you need to know to ensure that your next home is both eco-friendly and cost-effective.

Key Features to Look for in an Energy-Efficient Home

When searching for an energy-efficient home, knowing what to look for can help you identify properties that offer genuine benefits for environmental impact. Many of these areas of impact are traditional foundations of houses but with modern standards and technology. 

Here are some essential features to prioritize:

1. Insulation Quality

Good insulation is the foundation of an energy-efficient home. Insulation in the walls, attic, and floors reduces heat loss in the winter and keeps your home cooler in the summer, leading to lower energy bills. Well-insulated homes require less heating and cooling, making them more comfortable year-round. Look for materials like fiberglass, spray foam, or cellulose insulation with high R-values, which indicate better thermal resistance.

2. Energy-Efficient Windows and Doors

Windows and doors are significant points of energy loss, so energy-efficient options are essential. Double- or triple-pane windows with low-emissivity (low-E) coatings help keep heat inside during winter and block it out during summer. Insulated, weather-sealed doors can also make a substantial difference by preventing drafts and reducing the load on heating and cooling systems.

3. High-Performance HVAC Systems

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems account for a large portion of household energy use. Energy-efficient HVAC systems, such as those with a high Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) rating, can drastically reduce energy consumption. Look for homes with modern, high-performance HVAC units, as well as properly maintained ductwork that minimizes energy loss.

4. Smart Thermostats and Home Automation

Smart thermostats are excellent for managing energy use because they can adjust the temperature based on your schedule and habits. Devices like programmable or smart thermostats can reduce heating and cooling costs by adapting to when you’re home or away. Many smart thermostats also provide energy usage reports, helping you make informed adjustments to optimize efficiency.

5. Efficient Lighting and Appliances

Energy-efficient lighting and appliances make a significant difference in long-term energy savings. LED lighting consumes less electricity and lasts longer than traditional bulbs. Similarly, ENERGY STAR-rated appliances, including refrigerators, washers, and dryers, use less energy and often come with settings that optimize performance while minimizing consumption.

These features are indicators of an energy-efficient home, and finding a property with these elements can lead to substantial cost savings and a reduced carbon footprint. When touring potential homes, prioritize these energy-saving features to ensure you’re making an environmentally and financially smart investment.

6. Solar Panels for Renewable Energy

Solar panels are an increasingly popular feature in energy-efficient homes, allowing homeowners to generate renewable energy and reduce reliance on traditional power sources. By producing their own electricity, homes with solar panels can enjoy lower utility bills and lessen their environmental impact

Home Certifications and Ratings to Check For

When buying an energy-efficient home, certain certifications and ratings can provide valuable insight into its eco-friendly features and overall energy performance. Here are some of the most reliable certifications and ratings to look for:

ENERGY STAR Certification

ENERGY STAR is a widely recognized certification for energy-efficient appliances and homes. Homes that earn the ENERGY STAR label meet strict guidelines set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), meaning they use at least 10% less energy than standard new homes. This certification is a strong indicator of efficiency and quality in appliances, windows, HVAC systems, and insulation.

LEED Certification

LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certification, managed by the U.S. Green Building Council, is a globally recognized rating system for green buildings. LEED-certified homes incorporate sustainable materials, water-saving features, and energy-efficient designs. LEED certifications are awarded at different levels—Certified, Silver, Gold, and Platinum—based on the extent of sustainable features, with Platinum indicating the highest level of eco-friendliness.

HERS (Home Energy Rating System) Score

The HERS score is an industry-standard rating that assesses a home’s energy performance. A lower HERS score indicates greater energy efficiency, with each one-point reduction translating to roughly 1% energy savings. For example, a home with a HERS score of 60 is 40% more energy-efficient than a standard new home with a score of 100. This score provides a quantifiable measure of a home’s energy efficiency, helping buyers understand potential energy costs.

GreenPoint Rated (California-Specific)

GreenPoint Rated is a California-specific certification that evaluates a home’s sustainability across five key areas: energy efficiency, water conservation, indoor air quality, resource conservation, and community benefits. This rating provides a comprehensive look at the environmental performance of a home, making it particularly useful for California buyers interested in sustainable living.

These certifications and ratings serve as trusted benchmarks for energy efficiency, helping buyers make informed choices. By focusing on homes with these labels, you can feel confident that you’re investing in a property that aligns with your energy-saving and environmental goals.

General Energy Efficiency Questions

Here’s a comprehensive list of questions to ask when buying an energy-efficient home:

1. What specific energy-efficient upgrades have been made?

2. How old are the major energy systems (e.g., HVAC, windows, insulation)?

3. Has the home undergone an energy audit? If so, can you see the results?

4. What is the home’s HERS (Home Energy Rating System) score?

5. Is there a record of past utility bills to show average monthly costs?

HVAC and Insulation

6. What is the age and SEER rating of the HVAC system?

7. Is the home equipped with a programmable or smart thermostat?

8. What type and R-value of insulation is used in the walls, attic, and floors?

9. Is there additional insulation in places like the garage, basement, or crawl spaces?

Windows and Doors

10. Are the windows double- or triple-pane, and do they have low-E coatings?

11. Do the doors have energy-efficient ratings, and are they weather-sealed?

12. Are there any draft-prone areas near windows or doors that have been addressed?

Solar Panels and Renewable Energy

13. Does the home have solar panels? If so, are they owned or leased? Ownership typically adds more value, while leased systems may come with contractual terms.

14. What is the age and condition of the solar system?

15. How much energy does the solar system typically generate, and what are the estimated savings?

16. Are there any warranties or maintenance agreements on the solar panels?

Appliances and Lighting

17. Are the appliances ENERGY STAR-rated?

18. Does the home use LED lighting throughout?

19. Are there water-saving features, such as low-flow faucets and showerheads?

Water Heating and Plumbing

20. What type of water heater is installed, and what is its energy rating?

21. Is the water heater tankless or traditional, and how old is it?

22. Are there any insulation or energy-saving measures applied to the plumbing?

Certifications and Warranties

23. Is the home ENERGY STAR or LEED certified?

24. Does the home have GreenPoint Rated certification (if in California)?

25. Are there warranties on key energy-efficient features, such as HVAC, insulation, or appliances?

Additional Considerations

26. Has the home been designed to optimize natural light or passive heating and cooling?

27. What’s the ventilation system like? Does it contribute to indoor air quality?

28. Are there any specific maintenance routines recommended to maintain energy efficiency?

29. Asking these questions will give you a clear understanding of the home’s energy performance, potential savings, and long-term value, ensuring you’re making an informed purchase.

Making Energy Efficiency for Houses a Priority in Your Search

Prioritizing energy efficiency when buying a home benefits both your wallet and the environment. Homes with efficient features, such as the ones mentioned in this post, offer long-term savings and enhanced comfort, making them a wise investment. By focusing on energy efficiency during your search, you’re choosing a home that aligns with sustainable living practices and meets modern performance standards. Take the time to ask detailed questions, review certifications, and understand potential savings to ensure you’re making a conscious, future-forward choice. 

If you're ready to make energy efficiency a top priority in your home search, reach out to us today at the Joseph Sabeh Group!  We can help you find properties that meet your eco-friendly goals. Start your journey toward a sustainable and cost-effective home today!