When you’re shopping for a new home, it’s totally normal to focus on the big stuff like neighborhood, square footage, layout, price. But one thing that often flies under the radar can actually have a big impact on your monthly budget in addition to comfort and even your resale value, and that’s energy efficiency!
If you’ve ever lived in a drafty house with high utility bills, you already know what a difference it makes. Here are a few things to look for as you embark on an energy and money saving journey:
Start with insulation and air sealing. Peek into the attic if you can, and ask about insulation in the walls and crawl space. A well-insulated home helps keep the temperature comfortable year-round and reduces the strain on your heating and cooling systems. Also check around windows, doors, and vents. Any noticeable drafts or gaps could mean energy is slipping right out the door (literally).
Next up: windows and doors. Double- or triple-pane windows are great for keeping the indoor temperature stable and outside noise at bay. If the windows feel cold to the touch or you feel a breeze around the frames, that’s a clue they might need upgrading.
The heating and cooling system is another big one. Ask how old the furnace or heat pump is, and whether it’s been regularly serviced. Newer systems tend to be far more efficient and quieter, too. Same goes for the water heater. Tankless or high-efficiency models are a plus, especially if your household uses a lot of hot water.
Don’t forget the everyday stuff. Check out the light bulbs (are they LEDs?) and appliances. ENERGY STAR®-rated appliances use less energy and water, which can seriously cut down your utility costs over time. If the home has a smart or programmable thermostat, even better as that’s a small feature with a big payoff.
Roof condition and attic ventilation also play a role in how well a home holds and releases heat. And if solar panels are installed, make sure to ask if they’re owned or leased, how old they are, and what kind of energy savings they’ve delivered. Owned systems can be a real bonus.
The home’s orientation and natural light matter too! Homes that get good sunlight during the day often stay warmer in the winter and can reduce the need for artificial lighting. It’s a subtle detail, but it adds up.
Many municipalities in Oregon require a home energy score to give a baseline, but if you’re looking to get the full picture, an energy audit is the way to go which offers a full breakdown of how the home performs and where there’s room to improve.
Resources to help explore options in Oregon:
One of the best starting points. They offer free home energy assessments, cash incentives for upgrades, and a directory of approved contractors. Also offers rebates for insulation, HVAC, windows, appliances, and solar incentives.
Oregon Department of Energy
Helps people and businesses complete energy-saving and renewable energy projects through grants and programs for efficiency upgrades
Energy efficiency isn’t just a nice bonus, it’s a smart, forward-thinking investment. Homes with these features are more cost-effective to maintain, more comfortable to live in, and often more appealing when it’s time to sell!
Looking to purchase or upgrade your existing home’s energy efficiency? We can help with that!