All of us have received an overly-large utility bill at some point, and it hurts! Unfortunately, the root of this problem is often found in an inefficient heating method. Whether it’s the dog days of summer or the bitter cold of winter, it doesn’t matter. Heat efficiency is all about reducing air leakage and preventing heat transfer. The question is, are modular homes more heat efficient than site-built homes?
Are Modular Homes Heat-Efficient?
Yes! Modular homes are well-insulated, tightly built, and because they are customizable, can be built using energy-efficient options.
Heat efficiency is one of the many benefits of going modular, which is exciting news. After all, modular home prices are already 20% less than the same house built in the traditional manner. Saving money on utility costs after your home’s built just sweetens the deal even more.
What Makes Modular Homes Heat-Efficient?
Of course, it isn’t enough to just claim that modular homes are heat-efficient. Why are they heat-efficient, and what makes them more so than traditionally built homes? Consider the following factors.
Quality Construction
According to the Law of Thermodynamics, heat always moves towards cold. In winter, your home’s heat tries to move outside, and in summer, the heat tries to move inside. Radiant heat from windows can reduce furnace efficiency, but your high heating and cooling bills are often a result of leaking air.
Because modular homes are assembled on-site, the units must be built according to the strictest tolerances. If they are off even a little, then the modules won’t line up during setting. For that reason, quality control at the factory is strict. Modular construction means fewer gaps and less chance for air leakage. The result is a home that is both heat efficient and solidly built.
Unique, Air-Tight Construction
Think of a modular home like a series of building blocks that are joined together to form your house. Each block, or module, has its own floor, walls, and ceiling. This means there are two walls between the joined rooms. The result is a well-insulated, heat-efficient house.
Modern Heating Methods
Because modular homes are assembled quickly and are customizable, contractors can implement the most up-to-date, energy-efficient heating and cooling methods on the market. One popular heating method for modular homes is known as “zoning.”
If you use zone heating and cooling, then you can increase heat efficiency by only conditioning the areas used. For instance, a Cape Cod floor plan usually has one and a half stories with the bedrooms being upstairs. At night, you can adjust the temperature in your bedrooms separately from the rest of the home. In the morning, you reverse the process and heat or cool the living space. This is accomplished with programmable thermostats and separate heating systems for each “zone.”
Modular home additions don’t even need to tie into your central heating and cooling. For a single room, you can use another type of heating system. A ductless mini-split system can be installed for very little money and only utilized when needed. The only item required is a three-inch hole and an electrical outlet.
Energy Star Savings
Additionally, you can choose to build your new home with even more green options, which save energy and often qualify for tax credits.
- Energy Star Appliances
- Geothermal Heating and Cooling Systems
- High-Efficiency Windows
Look for the Energy Star designation and research which tax benefits are available to you on not only the Federal level but also state and local.
Interested in Learning More?
At Next Modular, we know that choosing a home is likely one of the most important financial decisions you will make. As an experienced modular home builder, we are committed to being your guiding light throughout this process. If you need a modular home built near Goshen, Indiana, or if you have any further questions regarding resale value, call us today.
