Today's energy-efficient manufactured homes offer an affordable, flexible, and comfortable housing option. Available in a wide range of floorplans and designs, a modular home purchase can be a smart alternative when looking for an affordable, newly constructed, energy-efficient home.
What is an Energy Star Manufactured Home?
Energy-star manufactured homes provide improved comfort and durability by satisfying multiple efficiency standards. They feature quality-installed insulation, high-performance windows, well-sealed structures, and efficient heating and cooling systems.
Understanding Energy-Efficient Features in Manufactured Homes
Energy efficiency means consuming less energy to perform the same task and achieve the same outcome. Energy-efficient homes use less energy for heating, cooling, and running appliances.
Factory-built homes initially prioritized affordability until the 1980s, when energy conservation emerged. This led to advancements in insulation, window technology, and HVAC systems. In the 2000s, the HUD Code was updated to emphasize energy efficiency, and Energy Star Certification for manufactured homes was introduced.
Today, innovations in manufactured homes focus not only on affordability but also on sustainability. Energy efficiency is a top priority among buyers when choosing a prefabricated home. Consumers are looking to lower utility bills while increasing comfort and safety all year round and reducing their carbon footprint.
Here are some vital energy-efficient features to consider when buying a manufactured home.
High-Quality Insulation
Insulation is one of the most critical components of an energy-efficient manufactured home. Look for factory-built homes that use high-quality insulation materials, such as spray foam or fiberglass. These materials significantly reduce heat loss in winter and heat gain in summer. A well-insulated home creates comfortable living conditions while reducing the need for excessive heating and cooling.
Energy Star Appliances
Purchasing Energy Star appliances is a great way to boost the energy-efficient features in manufactured homes. These appliances have been evaluated and certified to use less energy and water than their non-Energy Star counterparts. Watch for features like high-efficiency refrigerators, dishwashers, and washing machines in your manufactured home to reduce energy costs.
Efficient Heating and Cooling Systems
Heating and cooling account for most of a home's energy use. While shopping for a manufactured home, ask about the type of HVAC system used and look for models equipped with energy-efficient systems like heat pumps or modern central air conditioning units. Consider homes that utilize programmable thermostats, which allow for better temperature control and energy savings.
Quality Windows and Doors
Windows and doors play a vital role in a home's energy efficiency. Look for double- or triple-pane insulated windows that reduce heat transfer and block UV rays. Ensure exterior doors are solid, well-insulated, and equipped with weather stripping to minimize air leaks that could potentially increase energy costs.
Sustainable Materials
Many manufacturers now focus on using eco-friendly building materials that contribute to energy savings and promote healthy indoor living spaces. Look for homes constructed with sustainable materials like bamboo or reclaimed wood and those that utilize low-VOC paints to improve indoor air quality.
Solar Panel Readiness
Are you interested in reducing dependence on conventional energy sources? Search for modular homes that are solar panel-ready. This means the unit is designed to accommodate solar panels with appropriate roof orientation and structural support, making investing in renewable energy even more accessible.
LED Lighting
Lighting can significantly impact energy consumption. LED lights use less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs and have a longer lifespan, making them a cost-effective choice in the long run. When doing a walk-through of a manufactured home, inspect the ceiling and ensure LED lighting is incorporated throughout.
Water-Efficient Fixtures
While not traditionally considered an energy-efficient feature, water-saving fixtures contribute to overall efficiency by reducing hot water consumption. Low-flow faucets, showerheads, and dual-flush toilets minimize water usage while maintaining functionality.
Energy-Efficent Features in Manufactured Homes
Do you already own a manufactured home but are interested in making it more energy-efficient? These simple tips can help improve the energy efficiency of a manufactured home.
- Upgrade Insulation-Changing the insulation in older manufactured homes can significantly boost energy efficiency by reducing heat loss. Homeowners should add insulation to walls, floors, and ceilings using similar materials used in new site-built or manufactured homes. Sealing all gaps, cracks, and openings is an important but necessary step to avoid drafts and air leakage and improve the home's insulation capabilities.
- Install Energy-Efficient Windows and Doors - Upgrading dated single-pane windows with double- or triple-paned windows can significantly improve a home's energy efficiency by reducing heat transfer. These low-emissivity windows and doors help maintain a consistent indoor temperature throughout the year. Ensuring all windows and doors are properly sealed and weather-stripped minimizes air leaks, enhancing energy efficiency.
- Upgrade Heating and Cooling Systems - Modernizing heating and cooling systems in older manufactured homes is important for improved energy efficiency. Changing old HVAC units with newer, energy-efficient models can optimize heating and cooling performance. Consistent HVAC system maintenance and cleaning ensure they operate at peak efficiency.
Other key updates to include:
- Make general repairs
- Upgrade to energy-efficient appliances
- Install insulated skirting
- Install a belly wrap
Purchasing an energy-efficient manufactured home benefits the environment and improves the living experience with lower utility bills and increased comfort. When considering the options, prioritize the above features to ensure that your new home is both sustainable and cost-effective. Homeowners will enjoy a beautiful manufactured home that meets their needs without breaking the bank while still being kind to our planet.
Moving Forward with Sun Communities
Sun Communities promotes environmentally conscious neighborhoods where families and residents can live guilt-free in energy-efficient homes that seamlessly integrate smart technologies.
Our manufactured home communities offer state-of-the-art amenities that elevate resident's lifestyles. We provide modern equipment and facilities like fitness centers, tennis courts, and clubhouses that residents use for recreational activities and gamedays.
Find the perfect community for you and your family.