High energy bills got you down? Check into buying a new home in Balmoral. Balmoral builders use the latest building technology and materials to craft energy-efficient homes that help lower heating and cooling bills. How do they do it? We break it down.
Start With the Roof
Radiant heat pours through the roof of older homes into the attic, then disperses that heat throughout your home. Builders like Colina Homes shield your attic from that heat by installing durable aluminum overlays. Doing so can reduce attic temperatures by up to 30º F and lower monthly air conditioning costs by up to 17 percent.
Reduce Leaks and Drafts
Older homes leak. Heat seeps out the cracks in the winter. Cold air escapes in the summer. Your response is to turn up the heat or crank up the air conditioning. Ashton Woods uses special framing techniques that reduce leaks and drafts so your home stays at a steady and comfortable temperature no matter what the season.
What About Windows?
Windows can suck the energy out of your home in two ways. Small windows let in less light, tempting you to turn on lamps even during the day. Westin Homes is known for their walls of floor-to-ceiling bay windows. In addition to being gorgeous, they flood your home with natural light, so you keep the lights off. Gehan Homes uses low E3 glazed windows that block heat during the summer and help retain heat in the winter.
Look for the Energy Star Label
Most new home builders like Lennar and Chesmar Homes, choose ENERGY STAR® appliances. Appliances with the ENERGY STAR® label utilize up to 50 percent less energy, saving you money even if you leave the toaster plugged in.
Insulation is Everything
Over the years, insulation materials have improved exponentially. All Balmoral builders use high quality insulation to help maintain internal temperature and improve your HVAC performance. If you really want to get into the nitty-gritty, ask your builder’s sales representative about the R-value of the insulation they use. The larger the number, the better.
Ask About HERS
The Home Energy Rating System (HERS) scores homes based on how energy efficient they are. The lower the HERS score, the more efficiently your home uses energy. The average home score is 100. Balmoral homes usually score in the low 60s.
Trust Third-party Inspectors
Trustworthy builders like Gehan Homes ask third-party inspectors to test that their homes are up to state and national energy standards. These outside inspection firms are neutral parties. They will certify a builder’s home so you know your home will save you money for years to come.
