American Legend helps buyers save energy in Texas heat

Texas is known for reaching ridiculous temperatures in the summer and this summer is no different. While we may enjoy these temperatures during a pool day, they can negatively affect our energy bills. There are meaningful ways, however, to save energy even in the worst heat. 

Every American Legend home is designed and constructed using the latest energy efficient systems. These systems reduce the environmental impact of new home construction and increase the long-term efficiency of the home. 

All of our homes are built with:

• Low-E, argon enhanced vinyl windows: These reduce energy costs and minimize dangerous light penetration without reducing the overall brightness in the home.
• TechShield radiant barrier roof decking: This roofing system reduces heat gain through the roof.
• LED bulbs in all light fixtures: These light bulbs reduce energy consumption and last longer than traditional bulbs.
• Load calculated attic ventilation: This process utilizes fiber cement soffit around the perimeter of your home (where allowed by code) and the home’s passive roof vents. It increases ventilation and reduces attic temperatures and moisture build up, resulting in lower cooling costs
• Overall “Standard Energy Rating” (SEER) of 16: Our high energy systems include 14/16 SEER condensers with electronic spark ignition, one mechanical fresh air intake per unit and MERV 8 air filters for improved efficiency and indoor air quality. 
• Programmable wi-fi- controlled Honeywell thermostats: These make scheduling your energy usage and saving money super easy.
• R-6 insulated air ducts with returns and transfer grills in all bedrooms: This system stabilizes air pressure from room to room, creating even temperatures throughout the home.
• Fiberglass bat insulation: Our insulation meets or exceeds codes in all exterior, sloped and flat living area ceilings. It reduces utility costs and increases comfort by retaining the desired indoor temperature.
• Rheem zoned tankless water heaters: These promote savings in energy usage.
• HERS Index: Every American Legend home is professionally inspected and certified by an independent, third-party energy efficiency rating provider, so you can have peace of mind that your new home meets or exceeds well-established energy requirements. The Home Energy Rating System (HERS) Index is the industry standard by which a home's energy efficiency is measured. It's also the nationally recognized system for inspecting and calculating a home's energy performance. 

While your American Legend homes are built to be energy efficient, here are a few more ideas to help you save: 

• Grill out more often: Cooking while indoors can release heat into the home, meaning your system has to work harder. Wait ‘til the sun starts going down and step outside to fire up the grill. Grilling is a wonderful way to still have a yummy meal while keeping the heat out of your home! 
  
• Keep it closed: Sometimes saving energy can be as simple as closing the blinds. By keeping the blinds or curtains closed, you are keeping the sun from heating the inside of your house! 
• Fire up the fan: The AC isn’t the only way to cool things off in this Texas heat. Turning a fan on may not have the same effect that your AC does but it does help circulate the air and keep the heat off you. If you are in a room without a ceiling fan, a simple plug-in fan will accomplish the same goal! 

This Texas heat is no joke, and neither is saving as much energy as possible. Read more about our energy-saving design and construction process here. And speak with your American Legend Sales Associate about our energy saving design. We’re proud that we can help you stay cool and save money all summer long!