Manufactured homes have come a long way, and one of the biggest changes is in energy efficiency. Today, energy-efficient manufactured homes are modern and continue to prove that efficiency can make a big difference in everyday homeownership. 

What Makes a Manufactured Home Energy-Efficient?

An energy-efficient home is designed and built to use less energy. It doesn’t make living any less comfortable or any different from what you may expect from a traditional home. It does the same job but uses less energy, cuts costs, reduces harmful emissions, and provides comfort. 

Energy-efficient homes that meet all of the specific construction requirements set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) are considered ENERGY STAR Certified Homes. You may see these homes with a blue certification label. ENERGY STAR found that these homes are at least 10% more efficient than a home built to minimum code, and many go beyond that. 

Energy-efficient homes include key features such as:

  • Energy-efficient appliances: Look for ENERGY STAR Certified models. These meet EPA energy efficiency standards and include everything from dishwashers and dryers to refrigerators. 

 

  • High-performance insulation: With insulated skirting and upgraded wall, floor, and ceiling insulation, your home will retain the heat and air it needs.

 

  • Heating and cooling systems: Heat pumps are efficient ways to heat and cool your home and reduce energy costs. Instead of burning fuel, they transfer existing heat energy from the outside air into your home. They can also dehumidify and improve air quality. 

 

  • LED lighting: LED bulbs often use less energy and last longer than traditional incandescent bulbs, helping reduce energy and replacement costs.

 

  • Smart home technology: Smart thermostats can automatically adjust temperatures based on your schedule and preferences, so energy isn’t wasted heating or cooling an empty house. 

 

  • Low-E windows: “Low emissivity” windows block harmful UV rays and reduce heat transfer, helping cool your home and even prevent furniture and flooring from fading. 

 

Lower Costs

One of the biggest benefits of an energy-efficient home is the potential for savings. According to Next Step, homeowners can save up to 30 to 50 percent on their monthly utility bills compared to non-certified homes. Those savings add up to hundreds of dollars a year on utility bills. 

Much of that opportunity comes from federal programs. The U.S. Department of Energy’s Efficient New Homes program, formerly known as the Zero Energy Ready Home program, certifies manufactured homes that meet efficiency standards, and savings can be substantial. Clayton Homes notes that its eBuilt Plus homes, built to this standard, can help homeowners save up to 50% on energy bills, and adding solar panels can get you close to a net-zero energy bill! 

Sustainability 

For homeowners who want to make environmentally friendly choices, energy-efficient home features are a great place to start. According to PNAS, roughly 20% of US energy-related greenhouse gas emissions stem from heating, cooling, and powering households. These emissions contribute to global warming and climate change. By taking a step towards using energy-efficient features, you can reduce the amount of fuel your household burns, living more sustainably. 

Long-Term Value

Energy-efficient features are a smart investment in the long run. Homebuyers may be increasingly interested in homes that offer modern energy-efficient features and manage costs. Upgrades such as Low-E windows, spray foam insulation, and ENERGY STAR appliances can make a home more appealing to future buyers while increasing resale value. For homeowners planning to stay long-term, the lower yearly bill results are just as appealing. 

Comfort

Overall, energy-efficient homes can offer more than savings. Comfort comes from how features and upgrades work as a system. With controlled temperatures and high-quality airflow, homeowners can relax without the added stress of utility bills or of constantly adjusting the thermostat. 

A Smart Way to Live

As manufactured homes continue to evolve, energy efficiency is not just a niche feature. It is a smart contributor to savings, less energy waste, and everyday comfort. 

Does energy-efficient living sound like something that you want to explore? Contact us today to see what energy-efficient homes we have available or learn how you can customize a home.