Bigger Homes Not Helping in Energy Efficiency Gains

Posted on 04-06-2015

Bigger homes are trending, again, and that has people purchasing more electronics and appliances to fill their homes.  The Energy Information Administration reports that between 1980 and 2009, "The average home size grew by about 20 percent.  With increased square footage came the adoption of more and larger devices such as more televisions with larger screens and new or expanding end uses such as computers, networking equipment, and home entertainment devices."

The EIA reports that compared to older homes, newer homes are more likely to have clothes washers and driers, dishwashers, more than one refrigerator, numerous televisions with game consoles, and more than one computer in the house.  Newer homes used 18 percent more energy with appliances, lighting and electronics in 2009 compared to older homes.

However, newer homes are more energy efficient with updated Energy Star appliances, heating and cooling equipment, LED lighting and water efficiency.  This is keeping the carbon footprint at the lowest level.