How to Make Your New Home More Energy Efficient (And Save Money)

New homes already save big on energy. ENERGY STAR homes bring 20% more savings on utility bills while ENERGY STAR appliances bring $450 of energy savings while LED lighting can save you over $200 annually. Altogether, new homeowners are sitting pretty when it comes to energy savings. Why not consider making your home more energy efficient?

Why it matters: Lower bills, a smaller carbon footprint, and higher resale value. Green homes can sell for up to 8% more.

Use the Land to Your Advantage

Smart landscaping can pay for itself in energy savings within eight years.

• Cool the home: Plant deciduous trees on the south side for shade and airflow. Shading can reduce cooling costs by nearly 50%.

• Add insulation: Place shrubs and vines next to walls for pockets of air insulation.

• Block wind: Dense plantings of evergreens on the windward side of your home will reduce heating costs and wind chill.

• Trap snow: Use low shrubs to keep snow away from the house.

Insulate the Smart Way

Insulation is one of the most cost-effective upgrades. It cuts energy use and reduces reliance on heating and cooling.

Key areas to insulate:

• Attics, ceilings, and walls especially exterior walls

• Floors above cold spaces and over garages

• Foundations, crawl spaces, and basements

• Band joists, knee walls, and cantilevered floors

• Storm or replacement windows

Save Money When It Rains

Water costs rise every year. Rainwater collection systems help offset them.

How it works:

• Capture rainwater from the roof

• Transport it to storage

• Store and distribute for indoor or outdoor use

Pro tip: Ask about gray water recycling for irrigation.

Ask the Right Questions

Your builder makes or breaks your home’s efficiency. Ask:

• Why do you build green homes?

• What certifications do you hold?

• How many green homes have you built?

• Can I see references and certifications?

• Will the home be third-party certified?

• Will it receive a HERS rating and appraisal addendum?

• Can I view construction progress and meet the lead builder?

Bottom line: A well-planned energy-efficient home saves money, boosts comfort, and raises resale value. The payoff is financial, environmental, and long-term.

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