After the year 2000, homes started to become more energy efficient. Even though homes built since 2000 are statistically 30 percent larger, new advances in energy efficient construction and technology have been able to make it so that even these larger buildings use less energy. In fact, newer homes use approximately 20 percent less energy to heat the inside space. This is also in part to stricter code regulations on energy use. Electricity used for air conditioners is actually up since 2000 but this is due to the increased use of air conditioners in general as the units themselves are actually 50 percent more efficient now than a few decades ago.
Energy code regulations along with improved standards for window and door insulation in new homes are primarily responsible for the advantages in energy efficiency. Builders have improved their building styles over the years so that the flow, duct work, and layout of each home is designed in a way to make the floor plan more energy efficient. The introduction of energy-efficient lighting also helps to use less energy and produce less heat waste. This lowers the demand on your air conditioner in the summer and saves you money year-round.