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Efficiency is no longer a buzzword builders use to sell their homes to a specific market of buyers. Now, improved energy efficiency is not just an added bonus, but an expectation, in every new construction home. Here at Sandlin Homes, we’re committed to building high-quality homes in the Dallas-Fort Worth area that won’t have a negative impact on the environment—or your wallet. 

We’ve detailed some steps homeowners can take, in conjunction with standard Sandlin Homes features, to save money and reduce your carbon footprint.  

Don’t pay for phantom power

The energy used by appliances and electronics when they are not in use, but still plugged in, is called phantom power. The phenomenon can cost the average U.S. household an extra $100 per year on their electric bills. That may not seem like a lot, but with technology becoming more and more integrated into our lives, the devices start to stack up. Start by unplugging phone, tablet, laptop and smart watch chargers when they’re not in use. In the kitchen, check out your small appliances: coffee makers, toasters, blenders and air fryers. Even if you use some of these items every day, unplug them when you’re finished. This also can help you get in the habit of storing small appliances when not in use, helping to clear clutter off of your countertops. Lastly, head to your bathroom to ensure hairdryers, curling irons and plug-in mirrors aren’t sucking up extra energy during the day. 

Think outside the box  

Many homeowners change the temperature on their thermostat based on the time of year, or even the time of day, to save a few bucks—but Sandlin’s standard Ecobee Thermostat does the work for you. It learns your family’s temperature preferences and uses sensors to adjust its settings accordingly. Take temperature adjustments a step further by tweaking the temps of other appliances in your home, including refrigerators, freezers and tankless water heaters. Sandlin Homes uses Energy Star-compliant appliances, helping you save energy without much effort. Keeping your refrigerator set to the standard “energy-saving level” will keep food just as fresh without unnecessary energy usage. Water heaters set to a maximum of 120° - not the commonly-advertised 140° - will still allow for quality performance of dishwashers and washing machines. 

Clear out your vents  

When your vents are dirty, your heating and cooling systems have to work harder. DIY or professional duct cleaning can increase the lifespan of your HVAC systems and reduce your energy consumption by 25 to 40%. Clean vents also improve air quality, making your home a healthier place for you and your family to live. 

Invest in a home that prioritizes efficiency

While there’s plenty of steps homeowners can take to reduce their carbon footprint, a new home that’s constructed with energy efficiency features from the start is the best option. With state-of-the-art HVAC systems, radiant barrier roof decking, energy-sealed infiltration areas, low-emission glass vinyl windows, blown insulation throughout and more, Sandlin Homes is dedicated to making the process easier for you by including desirable, energy-saving features in every home we build. If you’re tired of paying extra to try and upgrade your current home to meet efficiency standards, it might be time to make a change. 

Whether you’re wanting to design your home from the ground up or looking to move quickly, you’ll know that the home you’re purchasing was built responsibly and with the environment in mind. Contact us today to get started.