Are Manufactured Homes Energy Efficient | Site-Built vs Manufactured
Are Manufactured Homes Energy Efficient?
Manufactured and modular homes are a type of prefabricated home. Compared to a traditional home that is built on-site, manufactured homes are built in a factory and brought to the final location once complete.
According to the Department of Energy, homes and commercial buildings use 40% of the energy used in the United States. Improving energy efficiency in modern housing can save money, conserve resources, and enhance home comfort.
Let’s discuss the energy efficiency of manufactured homes.
Understanding Energy Efficiency in Manufactured & Modular Homes
Energy efficiency is the practice of using less energy to perform the same task or achieve the same outcome. Energy efficient homes use less energy for heating, cooling, and running appliances.
Initially, modular homes prioritized cost and mobility. However, in the 1980s, awareness of energy conservation led to advances in insulation, window technology, and HVAC systems. The early 2000s introduced the Energy Star Certification for manufactured homes and the HUD Code was updated to emphasize energy efficiency. Innovations continue to focus on sustainability in manufactured homes.
Are Modular & Manufactured Homes Energy Efficient – A Comparison to Site-Built Homes
Advances in insulation, windows, and construction materials have significantly enhanced the energy efficiency of manufactured homes.
- Insulation: On-site and modular homes use materials like fiberglass batt, spray foam, and rigid foam insulation. Manufactured homes often achieve a tighter fit and more consistent installation, reducing gaps and thermal bridging.
- Heating and Cooling systems: Efficient systems lower emissions, conserve energy, improve air quality, reduce costs, extend lifespan and prevent home damage.
- LED lighting and energy-efficient appliances: Energy-efficient appliances provide both immediate and long-term benefits in modern homes.
Proper installation and maintenance of insulation, HVAC systems, lighting, and appliances can significantly cut energy use. The controlled construction and materials used make manufactured and modular homes an energy-efficient option.
Energy Efficiency of Manufactured Homes vs Site-Built Homes
Both types of homes can be designed to be energy efficient, but there are differences in construction processes, appliance installation, and costs.
- Construction Process: Manufactured homes are built in a controlled environment, which ensures consistent quality during construction. Site-built homes tend to generate significant waste, while modular home factories reuse leftover materials.
- Insulation and Air Sealing: Factory-built homes use advanced sealing techniques, ensuring better air sealing and protection from moisture and weather.
- Heating and Cooling Systems: Manufactured homes are equipped with standardized HVAC systems that save energy and reduce costs.
- Energy Efficiency Standards: Manufactured homes are built to meet or exceed Energy Star standards.
- Costs: Manufactured homes are generally more affordable due to the efficient factory construction and standardized methods.
What is an Energy Star Manufactured Home?
Energy Star manufactured homes meet multiple efficiency standards, featuring quality-installed insulation, high-performance windows, well-sealed structures, and efficient heating and cooling systems. These homes provide enhanced comfort and durability while being more energy efficient.
Top 3 Tips for Making Older Manufactured Homes More Energy Efficient
#1: Upgrade Insulation: Upgrading insulation in older manufactured homes can significantly enhance energy efficiency by reducing heat loss. Homeowners should consider adding insulation to walls, floors, and ceilings, using materials like spray foam or rigid foam for better thermal performance. Properly sealing all gaps, cracks, and openings is crucial to prevent drafts and air leakage, further improving the home’s insulation capabilities.
#2: Install Energy-Efficient Windows and Doors: Replacing outdated single-pane windows with double or triple-pane alternatives can greatly improve a home’s energy efficiency by reducing heat transfer. Opting for windows and doors with low-emissivity (Low-E) coatings helps reflect heat and UV rays, maintaining a more consistent indoor temperature throughout the year. Additionally, ensuring that all windows and doors are properly sealed and weather stripped minimizes air leaks, enhancing overall energy efficiency.
#3: Upgrade Heating and Cooling Systems: Modernizing heating and cooling systems in older manufactured homes is a key step towards increased energy efficiency. Replacing old HVAC units with contemporary, energy-efficient models can optimize heating and cooling performance. Installing programmable thermostats allows homeowners to better control temperature settings, reducing energy consumption when the home is unoccupied. Regular maintenance and cleaning of HVAC systems are also essential to ensure they operate at peak efficiency.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What makes manufactured homes energy efficient?
The construction process and sustainable appliances contribute to energy efficiency of manufactured homes.
Are Manufactured and Mobile Homes Insulated?
Manufactured and modular homes are insulated. Factory-built modular homes achieve better air sealing and installment of insulation.
What are the benefits of Energy Star certified manufactured homes?
Energy Star certified homes are at least 10% more energy efficient than those built to code, providing better quality, performance, comfort, and cost savings.
Can older manufactured homes be made more energy efficient?
By upgrading insulation, HVAC systems, installing energy-efficient windows and doors, and more, older manufactured homes can be made more energy efficient.
Wrapping Up
Manufactured and modular homes have significantly improved in energy efficiency. Today, manufactured homes meet or exceed Energy Star standards, making them a cost-effective and sustainable option for homebuyers. Living in an energy-efficient home allows homeowners to save money, conserve resources, and enjoy enhanced comfort.
For a sustainable and comfortable home, explore Black Home Sales for energy-efficient manufactured and modular homes.
Newest specific energy-efficient options:
E-built offered by Clayton Homes which features:
- A Rheem® hybrid heat pump water heater
- Upgraded insulation
- Carrier® HVAC heat pump or gas furnace
The appliances you use every day can have a big impact on your energy consumption, too. eBuilt® homes have a Rheem® ProTerra® hybrid heat pump water heater. This water heater can be controlled using an app on your smartphone with internet connection, has several different operating modes to help maximize your comfort and savings, and uses less energy per year than a 100-watt incandescent lightbulb.
SMI (Structural Modular Innovations, LLC) with options for:
- Triple pane windows
- Ridgid exterior insulation for complete thermal break
- REA Heating System