At Highland Homes, energy-efficient construction is a priority in every home we build. We recognize that building science, systems and materials advance quickly. To ensure you benefit from the latest improvements in energy efficiency, we use the newest industry-leading construction techniques, appliances and technology. As a result, your new home is far more energy efficient than existing homes – even those that were built just a few years ago.
Typical Resale Home
Avg. Home (2005)
Typical Highland Home
Highland homeowners can save an estimated $100 a month on their utility bills, which totals $1,200 a year or an incredible $36,000 over the length of a typical 30-year mortgage*.
*Examples based on gathered data. Actual totals will vary based on usage, utility rates and other factors.
The HERS Rating
Today’s homeowners want to feel confident that their home meets or exceeds well-established energy requirements. In homebuilding, energy efficiency is scored based on the Home Energy Rating System, or HERS. This industry standard helps customers compare their home’s energy performance to other homes. All Highland homes receive a HERS index that not only meets but surpasses the 2015 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC).
Before we turn over the keys to you, we have your home inspected and certified by an independent, third-party rating provider that specializes in energy efficiency. We even provide each homebuyer an Energy Rating Index Certificate for their home to have on file for future sales or refinances.
Our Energy-efficient Approach
- ENERGY STAR® appliances. We select only the most energy-efficient appliances to make it easy for your family to conserve energy and water
- TRANE® HVAC systems*. Each home receives a right-sized heating and cooling system, which achieves year-round comfort and incredible energy efficiency with the lowest long-term operation costs.
- High performance vinyl windows. We install high-performance vinyl windows which prevent leakage and offer a higher efficiency rating than other options. Our windows offer an ideal balance of solar control and high visibility, helping to keep your home cool in the summer and warm in the winter.
- LED light bulbs. All homes comes standard with long-lasting LEDs on all non-decorative fixtures, which helps to keep your power bill low.
- Enhanced thermal systems. Each home includes optimal insulation protection for high efficiency. Superior insulation also keeps your home comfortable and minimizes external noise.
- Radiant barrier roof decking. This technique prevents heat from entering your home through the roof and insulation, keeping interior living spaces comfortable and lowering your energy costs.
- Well-ventilated attics. Our homes are designed with well-ventilated attics, which prevents excessive heat and moisture buildup to avoid costly damages and keep interior cooling costs low.
Water Efficiency
- Low-flow faucets. Specially-designed faucets incorporate more air into the water stream, minimizing the flow of water and reducing overall household consumption.
- Tankless gas water heaters. Our tankless systems operate only when hot water is needed, while traditional water heaters run continually. As a result, tankless units use less energy and operate more efficiently, are more reliable and safer, and offer a longer average lifespan.
- High-efficiency toilets. Whenever possible, we install low-flow toilets, which use about half the amount of water per flush compared to standard models.
- Zoned irrigation (standard in most communities). Our landscape irrigation systems precisely distribute water to specific zones to avoid wasting water. Optional rain sensors can alert the system when adequate levels of rain have fallen, eliminating unnecessary watering.
Indoor Air Quality
- 16 SEER-rated HVAC systems*. Our air conditioning and heating systems are among the most energy-efficient on the market, saving you money throughout all four seasons.
- Air pressure balancing. We use dedicated returns and Return Air Pathways to achieve balanced air pressure throughout your home. This creates more even temperatures, even during the winter, and reduces the potential for condensation build-up.
- Fresh Air ventilation. High-quality ventilation systems deliver fresh, filtered air to reduce dust, odors and indoor contaminants.
- Dedicated exhaust system. We install vents throughout the home to allow heated and odor-laden gases to escape, rather than lingering in the home.
Smart Systems
the Start
- Every Highland Home comes equipped with smart home features like smart thermostat, electronic deadbolt, wifi garage door, video doorbell, outlets with USB ports, and a powerful wifi router.