Residential Buildings and Equipment

Residential buildings account for around 20% of the total energy consumed in the U.S. As technological innovations and new ways of thinking become available to reduce this burden, conventional design and construction, appliance use, and consumer knowledge struggle to keep pace. Homes equipped with high-quality exteriors and high-efficiency appliances can dramatically reduce the nation's carbon emissions and resource use while providing comfort, better indoor air quality, and lower energy bills. Despite these sustained benefits, energy-efficient designs and products are often more expensive to purchase initially than available alternatives. ACEEE provides information to consumers, utilities, state energy offices, and other organizations on the best and most cost-effective ways to improve energy performance in both new and existing homes. For the most innovative technologies emerging in the residential sector, visit our Emerging Technologies Web site.

Activities

• Online Consumer Guide to Home Energy Savings
  The Buildings Program devotes a large portion of our work to assisting consumers so they can make informed choices about the true costs and benefits of new appliances and home upgrades. Access our Checklist for Action, Frequently Asked Questions, and instructions on how to choose the right contractor.
  

ACEEE Technical Reports

• Single-Family Homes
• Multi-Family Housing
• Whole-House Retrofits
• Consumer Electronics
• Other Residential Equipment

Important Resources and Links

• Residential Energy Consumption Survey (RECS) (federal data for researchers)
• ENERGY STAR (resources for consumer products, home improvements, and new homes)
• U.S. Department of Energy Building Technologies Program
• Zero Energy Homes (DOE and Florida Solar Energy Center)
  

For more information contact:
Harvey Sachs, Program Director
Jennifer Thorne Amann, Senior Associate
Katie Ackerly, Research Staff

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