Geodesic domes
A geodesic design uses interconnected triangles to create a strong, environmentally friendly structure.
Building an energy-smart house
Considering energy efficiency is critical to the comfort and performance of your new house.
Nick and Justine
Meet a family who built their home to save money and help the environment. They included insulation on the outside of the home and bathroom fans with timers. Dual zone heating and cooling allows them to heat or cool only certain areas of their home, so they stay comfortable while saving energy. The new furnace and air conditioning unit are energy efficient and quiet. In order to ensure that a new home is built efficiently, always bring in a third-party energy inspector to certify the energy-efficient upgrades.
Final home tour
In a walkthrough of their finished home, Nick and Justine describe how choosing energy efficient technologies for their new home have improved their lifestyle and energy bills.
Start at the beginning
A builder shares which energy efficiency technologies are important to incorporate into new home construction.
Lead with lifestyle
A homeowner shares how allergy concerns, a desire for energy efficiency and a need for better function led to decisions about the construction of their new home.
Under construction
Tour a home under construction which includes many energy-saving choices, from windows to walls.
It doesn't have to be expensive
New construction doesn't have to be expensive. Learn how keeping energy efficiency as a priority can make a difference.
More from this category
Historic preservation
A preservation expert shares how to restore an older home economically and energy efficiently.
Modular homes
Modular homes are built in a factory under controlled conditions, then shipped to the homesite and placed on a permanent foundation.
Habitat for Humanity
Habitat for Humanity is an organization that provides simple, sturdy homes. Learn how energy efficiency is a key factor in building these homes.
Net Zero Community
Check out a new neighborhood concept and see how one builder is changing the way homes are built with a goal to use zero energy.
Framing options
You have energy efficient and sustainable options when it comes to framing your new home.
Choosing energy-smart products
When building your new home, don't forget about the importance of energy-conserving products like furnaces, air conditioners and appliances.
Insulated concrete forms
An insulated concrete form (ICF) system eliminates the cold drafts typical of wood-frame construction.
Finding an energy-smart builder
An energy-smart builder will help you make the right choices for your family and lifestyle.