Energy-efficient homes are the way to go – Here are a few reasons why

Constantly we hear on the news or through advertisements that we need to do our part to help improve the environment. From the food we prepare, vehicles we drive to the homes we build or purchase, energy is a major area of concern. With all the talk about being energy efficient, the ways to do so tend to get lost in translation. Here are 5 ways to make your home energy efficient.

1. Energy efficiency keeps money in your pocket

On average, a U.S. household's expenses come to about $5,550/year on energy. However, when you purchase energy-efficient appliances and make energy-efficient home upgrades, combined with energy-saving actions each day, you can save hundreds of dollars in the long run.

Buying ENERGY STAR appliances can save you up to 30% on electricity bills. A new ENERGY STAR-rated refrigerator typically saves you $165 as opposed to a regular model in its lifetime.

Replacing incandescent light bulbs with energy-efficient ones, CFLs or LEDs reduces energy bills by 30-80%. This results in annual savings from $50 to more than $100.

Engaging in energy-efficient activities while you’re at home, at work or out and about also saves you money. Washing your clothes in cold water saves up to $63/year, while keeping car tires properly inflated can save $61/year.

2. Being in an energy-efficient home improves the economy

Savings of billions: Overall, energy efficiency saves the American government, its populace and businesses more than $500 billion a year in energy costs.

Job creation: While saving money, energy-efficiency projects (building improvements and infrastructure repairs) generate jobs. In the year 2010, energy efficiency was responsible for more than 830,000 jobs nationwide.

Fostering innovation: Industry leaders create energy-efficient innovations and policies leading to breakthroughs among manufacturers. In 2012, new standards required light bulbs to be at least 25% more energy-efficient than traditional bulbs spawning a myriad of new lighting products. From LED streetlights to flame-shaped, dimmable candelabra CFLs, energy-efficient lights are barely noticeable but use far less energy.

3. Better life quality

Insulated homes keep air conditioning inside during the summer and heat in during the winter. This leads to you being more comfortable all year round and to more money in your pocket as you don't have to run the AC or heat at higher levels. 16% of all greenhouse gases created in the United States come from residential domiciles; by living energy efficient, those gases are beneficial instead of harmful. Energy-efficient homes typically have longer lifespans, lower maintenance costs, and reduced operation costs.

The benefits of energy-efficient homes sell themselves. If you're interested in building your new home in an energy-efficient way, contact Spear Builders. We're one of the most respected, local home builders in Virginia, so call us today to discuss your energy-efficient home building options and reap the rewards.