Clayton, a leading single-family home builder, recently made big #environmental news by deciding to convert nearly all of the 42,000 modern manufactured homes it builds annually to be certified ENERGY STAR and Zero Energy Ready Homes (#ZEHR). These certifications mean that its manufactured homes will be much more efficient, save homeowners money on their utility bills (up to 50%) and provide premium #energyefficient appliances that are often considered unaffordable to the average family. Clayton’s switch to ZERH also means nearly all of its homes now come with a #heatpump water heater (HPWH), which likely represents the single largest procurement of HPWHs in the history of the technology. To put it in context, the entire HPWH market in 2022 shipped 141,000 units, and Clayton alone will increase this total by 30%! Sales of heat pump water heaters have grown steadily since becoming certified by ENERGY STAR in 2009. Clayton’s decision to install them in approximately 42,000 manufactured homes a year will be a huge boost. Image courtesy of New Buildings Institute. The Reasons Clayton Made This Move Clayton’s decision to switch to heat pump water heaters is a success story for the #InflationReductionAct (IRA). The IRA increased the #taxcredit home builders receive for both ENERGY STAR-rated homes (from $1,000 to $2,500) and Zero Energy Ready Homes (from $2,000 to $5,000). Heat pump water heaters proved to be one of the key technologies that helped Clayton qualify for the full ZEHR tax credit. Ron Powell, president of manufacturing for Clayton Home Building Group, said, “Based on how we built ENERGY STAR 2.0 homes, one of the easiest ways to meet 3.0 standards was to swap the traditional dual element water heater for a heat pump water heater and add a heat pump for electric homes. But once we committed to the heat pumps, the conversation then turned to, ‘Why don’t we go all the way by building DOE Zero Energy Ready Homes?’” Clayton is calling its new Zero Energy Ready home eBuilt®. The company had 39 of its 40 home building facilities certified to produce to this standard by May 2023, and today 96% of all new Clayton home orders are eBuilt®. The homes feature LED lighting, smart thermostats, low-e windows with argon gas, insulated doors and thermal envelope, additional insulation, a heat pump water heater, and many of the homes have a heat pump for space conditioning as well. Thanks to the IRA tax credits, Clayton was able to offer a total of 25 efficiency features without raising its prices to the end consumer. Clayton’s eBuilt home. Heat pump water heater to the far right. Image courtesy of Clayton 36,000 eBuilt homes have already been manufactured, and in the first 6 months of production, Clayton built more ZEHR certified homes than all the other ZEHR certified homes built by other home builders since 2013.
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The Window Cooler: A Sustainable Solution for Home Comfort In the quest for an efficient and eco-friendly way to cool our homes, the window cooler emerges as a compelling solution. Especially in dry, arid climates, window coolers, also known as evaporative coolers or swamp coolers, offer numerous advantages over traditional air conditioning systems. What is a Window Cooler? A window cooler works by drawing in warm air from the outside and passing it through water-saturated pads. As the air moves through these pads, it cools down through the process of evaporation and is then circulated into your home. This method is not only effective but also significantly more energy-efficient compared to conventional air conditioning. https://lnkd.in/eZGBMMeM Advantages of Window Coolers Energy Efficiency: Window coolers consume less electricity because they rely on the natural process of evaporation rather than energy-intensive compressors. This can lead to substantial savings on your electricity bill, especially during the hot summer months. Eco-Friendly: By using water instead of chemical refrigerants, window coolers reduce the environmental impact. They also help maintain indoor humidity levels, which can be particularly beneficial in dry regions. Cost-Effective: The initial cost and maintenance expenses of window coolers are generally lower than those of traditional air conditioning systems. This makes them an attractive option for budget-conscious homeowners. Easy Installation: Installing a window cooler is straightforward and typically doesn't require professional assistance. They fit into most standard windows, making them a convenient addition to any home. Choosing the Right Window Cooler When selecting a window cooler, consider factors such as cooling capacity, energy efficiency, and additional features like adjustable airflow, timers, and remote controls. A highly recommended model is the Honeywell CO60PM, known for its robust performance, user-friendly design, and ability to effectively cool large spaces. Conclusion As we become more conscious of our environmental footprint and seek ways to live sustainably, the window cooler stands out as an excellent choice for home cooling. It combines energy efficiency, eco-friendliness, and cost-effectiveness, providing a comfortable indoor environment without the heavy energy consumption of traditional air conditioning. If you're looking for a way to stay cool this summer while being kind to both your wallet and the planet, consider investing in a window cooler. Your home, and the environment, will thank you.
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When house hunting, considering the energy efficiency of each potential home can save you significantly on future utility bills and increase comfort levels. Here's how to assess energy efficiency effectively: Check the Insulation: Good insulation is crucial for maintaining a comfortable indoor temperature and reducing heating and cooling costs. Check the attic, walls, and floors to ensure they are well-insulated. Examine Windows and Doors: Look for double or triple-paned windows, which are more effective at insulating your home from external temperatures. Also, check for drafts around doors and windows, as these can be sources of energy loss. Inquire About HVAC Systems: Ask about the age and condition of the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems. Older systems are generally less efficient and more costly to run. Consider the potential need for replacements or upgrades. Look for Energy Star Appliances: Homes equipped with Energy Star-rated appliances consume less energy, which can lead to significant savings. Check if the home includes energy-efficient appliances, such as refrigerators, dishwashers, and washing machines. Solar Energy: If the home has solar panels, understand the setup. Are the panels owned outright or leased? Solar energy can drastically reduce electricity costs and increase the home’s appeal. By prioritizing energy efficiency in your home search, you not only save money in the long run but also contribute to a more sustainable environment. Follow Us for More Tips 💪 CORE MORTGAGE SERVICES, LLC, 814-272-0125, COMPANY NMLS #1157987, LICENSED BY THE PENNSYLVANIA DEPARTMENT OF BANKING (WWW.NMLSCONSUMERACCESS.ORG)
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New construction homes can save buyers money in several ways: 1. Energy Efficiency: New homes are often built with the latest energy-efficient materials and technologies, including better insulation, energy-efficient windows, and modern HVAC systems. This can significantly reduce utility bills. 2. Lower Maintenance Costs: Everything in a new home is brand new, from the roof to the appliances, which means fewer repairs and lower maintenance costs in the first few years. 3. Modern Building Codes: New homes are built to current building codes and standards, which can mean better safety features and structural integrity, potentially saving money on insurance. 4. Incentives and Warranties: Many builders offer incentives such as closing cost assistance or upgrades. Plus, new homes typically come with warranties that cover major systems and appliances, reducing out-of-pocket expenses for unexpected repairs. 5. Smart Home Technology: Many new constructions come equipped with smart home technology that can help manage energy use more efficiently, potentially lowering monthly utility costs. Overall, these factors can lead to significant savings over time, making new construction homes a financially savvy choice for many buyers. If this sounds like the right fit for you, I’d love an opportunity to chat! I partner with various builders and new construction agents that can help you with a super smooth closing!
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Water heaters are essential home systems. Whether constructing a new home or selecting a replacement appliance, most homeowners choose between a gas or electric water heater. The main factors to consider are safety, space availability, convenience, cost, and energy efficiency. Here is a comparison of the two systems to help you choose the right water heater for your home. Gas Water Heater Pros and Cons As the name suggests, gas water heaters use a gas burner to heat water, which boils and steams to provide hot water for showers and faucets. The most common types of gas are natural gas and propane. These appliances are available in tankless and tank-type options. A tank stores a certain amount of water at one time, which is then heated to the desired temperature and used as needed. Tankless options do not store the warmed water; they heat the water for use at the moment. Pros: Gas water heaters have higher heating capabilities than electric heaters, which means they can generate more hot water. They are perfect for larger families with substantial hot water needs throughout the day. They have faster recovery times and can provide hot water during power outages. Cons: This heating system tends to have a higher initial cost because it requires a gas line installation and a proper ventilation system to offload carbon monoxide. Scientists still dispute the environmental impact of gas heaters. Electric Water Heater Pros and Cons Electric water heaters are also available in tankless and tank options. Electric systems function using electric coils in a furnace or heat pump. A furnace is energy efficient, but a heat pump might be better in warmer climates because it provides heating and cooling properties through a forced-air system. Pros: Electric water heaters are less expensive to install because they don’t require the comprehensive ventilation systems that gas models require. They are also safer than gas alternatives, which run the risk of leaks or carbon monoxide poisoning. Cons: The downside of electric water heaters is that they cannot be used during power outages; they require a reliable electrical connection. Some people complain of high electricity bills too. Compared to gas models, they take longer to heat water. Your satisfaction with one or the other will likely depend on your family size, budget, and space availability. For example, if you have a large family with a high demand for hot water, the gas heater would be a good choice if you have a home with a basement where the heater can be stored. However, smaller families and apartments may only be able to accommodate a small electric heater that can fit in a utility closet or crawl space. #watersolutions #crystalaquagreen #pune
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Water heaters are essential home systems. Whether constructing a new home or selecting a replacement appliance, most homeowners choose between a gas or electric water heater. The main factors to consider are safety, space availability, convenience, cost, and energy efficiency. Here is a comparison of the two systems to help you choose the right water heater for your home. Gas Water Heater Pros and Cons As the name suggests, gas water heaters use a gas burner to heat water, which boils and steams to provide hot water for showers and faucets. The most common types of gas are natural gas and propane. These appliances are available in tankless and tank-type options. A tank stores a certain amount of water at one time, which is then heated to the desired temperature and used as needed. Tankless options do not store the warmed water; they heat the water for use at the moment. Pros: Gas water heaters have higher heating capabilities than electric heaters, which means they can generate more hot water. They are perfect for larger families with substantial hot water needs throughout the day. They have faster recovery times and can provide hot water during power outages. Cons: This heating system tends to have a higher initial cost because it requires a gas line installation and a proper ventilation system to offload carbon monoxide. Scientists still dispute the environmental impact of gas heaters. Electric Water Heater Pros and Cons Electric water heaters are also available in tankless and tank options. Electric systems function using electric coils in a furnace or heat pump. A furnace is energy efficient, but a heat pump might be better in warmer climates because it provides heating and cooling properties through a forced-air system. Pros: Electric water heaters are less expensive to install because they don’t require the comprehensive ventilation systems that gas models require. They are also safer than gas alternatives, which run the risk of leaks or carbon monoxide poisoning. Cons: The downside of electric water heaters is that they cannot be used during power outages; they require a reliable electrical connection. Some people complain of high electricity bills too. Compared to gas models, they take longer to heat water. Your satisfaction with one or the other will likely depend on your family size, budget, and space availability. For example, if you have a large family with a high demand for hot water, the gas heater would be a good choice if you have a home with a basement where the heater can be stored. However, smaller families and apartments may only be able to accommodate a small electric heater that can fit in a utility closet or crawl space. #watersolutions #crystalaquagreen #pune
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In the quest for more efficient home appliances, many homeowners are turning their attention to tankless water heaters. Unlike traditional units, tankless water heaters provide hot water on demand without the need for a storage tank. This blog will explore what a tankless water heater is and evaluate its suitability for different households, providing new insights into its potential benefits and considerations. Understanding Tankless Water Heaters 1. How Tankless Water Heaters Work: Tankless water heaters, also known as on-demand water heaters, heat water directly without the use of a storage tank. When a hot water tap is turned on, cold water travels through a pipe into the unit, where it is heated by either an electric element or a gas burner. This ensures that hot water is always available without the need to wait for a tank to fill up. READ MORE: https://lnkd.in/gfqJc9Sx
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🌱 Eco-Friendly Features That Can Boost Your Home's Value 💡 If you’re planning to sell your home, adding eco-friendly features can make a huge difference in attracting environmentally-conscious buyers. These features not only lower utility bills but also appeal to buyers looking for long-term savings. 🌞💰 Sustainably minded buyers value these features: 📱 Smart home tech ⚡ Energy-efficient appliances ☀️ Energy-efficient windows ❄️ High-quality insulation 🚿 Low-flow fixtures 🔋 Solar panels 🌧️ Rainwater harvesting systems 🚗 EV charging stations 🌿 Sustainable building materials By adding some of these features, you can boost your home’s market value and appeal to the growing number of buyers willing to invest in sustainability. Curious about which upgrades can maximize your sale? Give me a call! https://hubs.li/Q02WTGfb0 #DRE01930373 #EastBayRealEstate #EcoFriendlyHomes #GreenRealEstate #SustainableLiving #EnergyEfficiency #GreenDesignee #GreenHomes
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🌱 Eco-Friendly Features That Can Boost Your Home's Value 💡 If you’re planning to sell your home, adding eco-friendly features can make a huge difference in attracting environmentally-conscious buyers. These features not only lower utility bills but also appeal to buyers looking for long-term savings. 🌞💰 Sustainably minded buyers value these features: 📱 Smart home tech ⚡ Energy-efficient appliances ☀️ Energy-efficient windows ❄️ High-quality insulation 🚿 Low-flow fixtures 🔋 Solar panels 🌧️ Rainwater harvesting systems 🚗 EV charging stations 🌿 Sustainable building materials By adding some of these features, you can boost your home’s market value and appeal to the growing number of buyers willing to invest in sustainability. Curious about which upgrades can maximize your sale? Give me a call! https://hubs.li/Q02WTJHv0 #DRE01930373 #EastBayRealEstate #EcoFriendlyHomes #GreenRealEstate #SustainableLiving #EnergyEfficiency #GreenDesignee #GreenHomes
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