Which type of homes typically have a HERS Index score below 100?

The HERS Index is a scoring system that provides a measurement of a home's energy efficiency, with a score of 100 representing the energy use of a standard new home built to the 2006 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC). Homes that achieve a HERS Index score below 100 typically exhibit superior energy performance compared to this baseline.

Energy-efficient homes embody advanced design, construction, and sustainable technologies that reduce energy consumption. These homes often incorporate high-efficiency HVAC systems, superior insulation, enhanced air sealing, energy-efficient windows, and renewable energy sources like solar panels. Because of these attributes, they tend to have lower energy demands for heating, cooling, and powering household appliances, thus yielding a HERS Index score that is lower than 100.

In contrast, older homes, while they may have some energy-efficient upgrades, generally do not meet the same standards for energy efficiency due to outdated construction methods and materials that do not prioritize energy conservation. Renovated homes may achieve better scores if substantial energy-saving improvements are made during renovations, but this is not guaranteed and varies significantly based on the extent of those updates. Vacation homes may not consistently register low HERS scores as they often are not used year-round, which affects their overall energy performance profile.

Understanding