In the constantly evolving world of residential construction, energy efficiency has become a cornerstone, particularly when it comes to new home construction. With advancements in technology, materials, and building standards, new homes are increasingly designed to be more energy-efficient than their older counterparts.
This shift not only reflects a commitment to environmental stewardship but also aligns with the guiding principles of Hillwood Communities, the developer of the new home community, Harvest by Hillwood, where selecting builders who prioritize energy-efficient construction methods is paramount.
Energy efficiency in a home is achieved through a combination of advanced building techniques, high-quality materials, and innovative technologies that collectively reduce energy consumption without compromising on comfort or lifestyle. For a home to be considered energy efficient, it must effectively minimize the use of heating, cooling, and electricity through superior insulation, energy-efficient appliances, and more.
Over time, building technologies have significantly evolved to embrace the need for superior energy efficiency. Modern materials used in new home construction, such as high-performance windows, tight-sealing doors, and advanced insulation materials, offer far greater energy efficiency than those typically found in older homes. Additionally, the adoption of relevant standards and certifications in the past decade has set new benchmarks for energy efficiency in residential construction.
Energy-efficient home builders in Texas and the DFW area are increasingly incorporating certain building criteria into their new home construction to ensure they meet the highest standards of energy efficiency. These certifications serve as a guide for builders and a reassurance for homeowners that their new home is designed to conserve energy and reduce costs. Below are just a few examples of certifications that can be used to evaluate energy efficiency in construction.
Builders who adhere to these standards are considered among the best energy-efficient home builders, as they commit to constructing homes that are not only better for the environment, but also offer significant savings on utility bills for homeowners.
The esteemed builders at Harvest equip their homes with features like low-E windows, radiant barriers, Energy Star certified appliances, LED lighting, and more to ensure homeowner comfort and energy savings. Many have proprietary programs to promote energy efficient building and living and all submit their homes to RESNET for HERS indexing. You can learn more by visiting our builders page and following the links to each builder’s website.
Depending on location, size, and other factors, the initial cost of an energy-efficient new construction home may be higher than that of an existing home. However, this price difference is often offset by meaningful long-term savings on energy bills. Furthermore, when considering the cost of updating, repairing, and maintaining an older home to achieve similar levels of energy efficiency, new construction is often a much more cost-effective option over time.
Energy-efficient homes are also typically located in neighborhoods that value sustainability and innovation, which can influence the overall price of the home. The benefits of living in a home that requires less energy for heating, cooling, and electricity, combined with the reduced need for future updates and repairs, contribute to the overall value and appeal of energy-efficient new construction homes.
Energy-efficient construction involves using materials and building techniques that reduce energy consumption and increase the efficiency of the home. This includes enhanced insulation, energy-efficient windows and doors, and high-efficiency heating and cooling systems.
Open floor plans are often more energy-efficient due to improved airflow and light distribution, reducing the need for artificial lighting and extensive heating and cooling. Compact shapes, like a square or a circle, also minimize surface area exposed to the elements, enhancing energy conservation.
Insulated concrete forms (ICFs) and slab-on-grade foundations with rigid foam insulation are among the most energy-efficient options. They provide excellent thermal resistance and minimize heat loss, contributing to a more stable and efficient home environment.
The three appliances that typically use the most electricity are HVAC systems (heating and cooling), water heaters, and dryers. Choosing energy-efficient models for these appliances can significantly reduce a home’s overall energy consumption.
Standby power consumption, often called “vampire power,” wastes a significant amount of electricity. This occurs when electronics and appliances are left plugged in and continue to draw power even when not in use. Inefficient lighting and old, inefficient appliances also contribute to unnecessary energy waste.
If you’re in the market for a new home, consider the benefits of energy-efficient new construction homes at Harvest by Hillwood. Harvest is a community founded with an eye toward the future, and was designed with sustainability, comfort, and lifestyle in mind. Harvest offers a unique blend of modern amenities, including community gardens, resort-style pools, and a robust calendar of activities thanks to an award-winning lifestyle program, all designed to foster a sense of community and connection among residents.
Explore your new home options at Harvest, where energy efficiency meets modern new home living. Our new construction builders have available homes, and many are offering incentives, so it’s a great time to buy! Start your home buying search online where you can check out available floor plans, lots and quick move-in homes.