VA - Semi/ custom homes utilities

[Anonymous]

Hi,

I'm planning to build a custom home in the future so im trying to figure out my budget for utilities.
The new semi/custom home builders these days show how energy efficient their new homes are. People with their HERS rating under 85, what's your average monthly utilities bill(excluding water)?
It'll be great to know your house sq ft, what type of hvac system(ex: gas, electric, heat pump, geothermal), if you have solar panels, HERS rating, and builder name.

thank you!

[Anonymous]

What exactly are you trying to aim for? There is a balance between the upfront costs of making a more efficient home versus the longer term savings in energy costs. For reference, we built our home but I didn't even think about aiming for a HERS rating, nor was it something that came up in interviewing multiple builders. I have a feeling that any builder you find that will meet your criteria is also likely going to be on the more expensive side. Thus, spending x amount more to achieve an efficient home may only result in a small savings in energy costs. If cost savings is not your goal and just being environmentally friendly is it, then ignore all of this.

[Anonymous]

Geothermal usually is not cost effective. Solar panels have a much better ROI than geothermal.

[Anonymous]

From my research most builders aim for energy efficient homes. Their HERS rating ranges from 100-50. There is a drop off on upfront cost vs energy savings but a lot of times you will save money in the long run. Currently im paying $350/month on electric on a 2000sq ft end unit townhouse which is ridiculous.

[Anonymous]

Home construction is only part of the equation. How the HVAC system is zoned, the efficiency of the HVAC systems, and how the systems are used in conjunction with smart thermostats play a big part. Some people keep their windows closed much of the time and run their HVAC systems a lot, while others tolerate open windows and varying indoor temps better, with resulting lower energy costs. If you use your AC to reduce indoor humidity, you'll have higher energy costs than you will if you have a whole house dehumidifier, etc.