The Energy Source

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Five Technologies on Track to Transform New Home Construction

Thu, 07/07/2016 - 15:27

The ENERGY STAR certified new homes program has helped builders construct better, more efficient homes through tried-and-true strategies like air sealing and increased insulation. But with 20+ years in the industry, we also know it’s important to stay on top of the trends. So our technical expert, Dean Gamble, is always keeping an eye on emerging technologies that will help us raise the bar on efficiency.

Check out Dean’s list below of five technologies that are on track to transform residential home building for the better, and click over to Builder Online for his in-depth look at each of these technologies.

Emerging Technologies

  • LED bulb

    #1: LED Lighting

    LED lighting is poised to deliver breakthrough efficiency and innovative functionality right out of the box. LED bulbs reduce energy consumption by 70 to 90 percent—and they have impressive staying power—with a lifetime of more than 12 years. Read more about the rapidly innovating world of LEDs on builderonline.com.

  • hand using smart thermostat

    #2: Smart Thermostats

    Next-generation smart thermostats will offer more automated management (and higher potential savings) with less complex setup. Just like DVRs rendered VCR players nearly obsolete, I expect we’ll eventually say goodbye to today’s clunky controls. Check out this game-changer at builderonline.com.

  • Variable-Speed HVAC System

    #3: Variable-Speed HVAC Systems

    Already prevalent in many parts of the world, these systems have the ability to automatically run hotter or colder, ramp the airflow up and down, and manage the temperature independently in different parts of the house, much like your car’s HVAC system. This is in contrast to most systems used in homes today, which are simply on or off. These added features, plus the potential of greater efficiency, will make this a promising technology as costs continue to come down. Find out the benefits and barriers to adoption—and benefits of—variable-speed HVAC systems on builderonline.com.

  • water heater

    #4: Water Heaters

    Electric heat-pump and condensing gas water heaters are making waves by producing hot water using dramatically less energy and offering features like controlling the temperature from your phone. Though they have a higher upfront cost, they can save more than $1,000 over the lifetime of the product. Find out the future of cutting costs for the second largest energy guzzler in most homes on builderonline.com.

  • mother and daughter dancing

    #5: Advanced Fresh Air Systems

    Not long ago, the only time you got fresh outdoor air into your home was when you opened a window. Now advanced fresh air systems are emerging that automatically pump outdoor air into your home while maintaining comfort, using the least possible energy. Learn how fresh air systems work at builderonline.com. 

Portions of this article first appeared in Builder Online.

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