Moving into a new home comes with plenty of excitement, and one of the biggest benefits of new construction is improved energy efficiency compared to older homes. Modern building materials, updated appliances, and better insulation already give new homeowners an advantage, but even with these built-in efficiencies, there are still smart ways to conserve energy and keep your electric bill as low as possible.
Trigger warning! Many of these tips will sound like they are coming directly from your parents.
Why New Homes Are More Energy Efficient
New construction homes are designed to meet higher efficiency standards than older homes. Features like tighter building envelopes1, advanced insulation, and high-performance windows help reduce energy loss. Many new homes offered by Century Communities include ENERGY STAR®-rated appliances, efficient HVAC systems, and optimized ventilation.
These upgrades work together to maintain comfortable indoor temperatures while using less energy. That means your home starts off efficient, but your habits still play a big role in ongoing savings.
You’ll find these energy-saving practices in every Century Communities new home:
- ENERGY STAR® certified smart thermostats specified in all homes
- ENERGY STAR® appliances specified in 100% of Century Communities home deliveries (subject to product availability)
- Energy-efficient LED lighting and low-emissivity windows specified in all homes
- In 2024, 5,228 Century Communities homes achieved a HERS® Rating Score averaging 52, reflecting strong overall energy performance
Simple Everyday Energy-Saving Tips
Some of the easiest ways to save energy don’t require any upgrades at all. Small daily habits can add up to noticeable savings over time.
- Turn off lights when rooms aren’t in use.
- Use natural daylight whenever possible.
- Unplug chargers and small electronics when they’re not needed.
. - Wash laundry with cold water to reduce hot water use.
These basic changes help lower electricity demand without sacrificing comfort.
Use Smart Technology to Cut Your Electric Bill
Smart home technology can help automate energy savings without requiring constant attention.
- Smart thermostats adjust temperatures automatically based on your schedule, helping avoid wasted heating or cooling.
- Smart plugs and power strips prevent electronics from drawing power when they’re off.
- Energy-monitoring apps allow you to track usage and identify opportunities to reduce consumption.
When used correctly, smart devices make it easier to manage energy use while maintaining a comfortable living environment.
Smart devices offered with most Century Communities homes:
- ENERGY STAR® certified smart thermostats specified in all homes
- Energy-efficient HVAC systems with smart fresh-air dampers in most homes
- Variable-speed HVAC systems and indoor humidity control initiatives in most Southern and Texas markets
Heating and Cooling Efficiency Tips
Heating and cooling typically account for the largest share of household energy use. Managing these systems wisely can lead to meaningful savings.
- Set your thermostat to energy-efficient ranges, especially when you’re away.
- Change HVAC filters regularly to improve airflow and system performance.
- Keep vents and returns clear of furniture or obstructions.
- Schedule routine HVAC maintenance to keep systems running efficiently.
In climates with extreme seasonal temperatures, these steps can significantly reduce energy costs.
Energy-Saving Tips for the Kitchen and Laundry Room
Appliances play a major role in household energy use. Making small adjustments in the kitchen and laundry room can help lower overall consumption.
- Run dishwashers and washing machines with full loads.
- Use energy-saving cycles whenever available.
- Air-dry clothes when possible instead of using the dryer.
- Choose smaller appliances like microwaves or air fryers instead of heating the oven for small meals.
These habits reduce both electricity and water usage.
Lighting Upgrades That Save Energy
Lighting is one of the easiest areas to optimize.
- Replace traditional bulbs with LED lighting, which uses significantly less energy and lasts longer. Energy-efficient LED lighting is specified in all Century Communities homes.
- Install dimmer switches or motion sensors in low-traffic areas.
- Use outdoor lighting sparingly or set it on timers.
LED lighting alone can reduce lighting energy use by up to 75%, making it one of the most effective upgrades available.
Water Usage and Energy Costs
Water use and energy use are closely connected, especially when it comes to heating water.
- Set your water heater to an efficient temperature (around 120°F).
- Install low-flow showerheads and faucets.
- Limit unnecessary hot water use by shortening showers and washing clothes in cold water.
Reducing hot water demand helps conserve energy while lowering utility bills.
Century Communities takes water conservation very seriously and includes many water-saving features in all new homes:
- WaterSense® certified kitchen and bathroom fixtures specified in all home deliveries (subject to availability)
- Low-flow toilets specified in all homes
- Tankless water heaters in select homes
- Drought-tolerant xeriscaping, especially in California and the Southwest
Long-Term, Energy-Saving Upgrades to Consider
Once you’ve settled into your home, there are additional upgrades that can further improve efficiency.
- Solar panels or solar-ready systems to offset electricity usage
- Additional attic insulation for better temperature control
- Energy-efficient window treatments to reduce heat gain or loss
- Battery storage systems to support renewable energy use
These upgrades can increase efficiency while adding long-term value to your home.
The Bottom Line
New homes are built with efficiency in mind, but adopting smart habits, using energy-saving technology, and taking advantage of the efficient features already built into Century Communities homes can reduce energy use and result in lower monthly bills.
At Century Communities, energy efficiency, water conservation, and healthier indoor living are built into every home. Explore new homes and homeowner resources at CenturyCommunities.com and see how energy-smart living starts at home.
FAQs About Energy-Saving Tips for New Homes
How can I cut my electric bill quickly?
Start by adjusting thermostat settings, switching to LED lighting, and unplugging unused electronics.
Are new homes really more energy efficient?
Yes. Modern construction standards and efficient systems significantly reduce energy loss compared to older homes.
Do smart thermostats really save money?
When used correctly, they can lower heating and cooling costs by automatically optimizing temperature settings.
What uses the most electricity in a home?
Heating and cooling systems typically consume the most energy, followed by appliances and water heating.
Is it worth upgrading appliances in a new home?
Many new homes already include efficient appliances, but additional smart upgrades can enhance savings further.
