Energy Efficient Homes
El Paso, TX

Closed-cell spray foam insulation is the single most impactful upgrade for El Paso homes. It seals the entire thermal envelope — walls, attic, and rim joists — eliminating the air infiltration that drives up cooling costs during 100°F summers. Homes with spray foam attic insulation use 30–50% less energy for cooling compared to fiberglass batt insulation. Look for R-38 or higher in the attic.

Single-pane windows are common in El Paso homes built before 2000 and are a significant energy liability — a single-pane window can transfer 10x more heat than an insulated wall. Double-pane Low-E windows with argon gas fill reduce heat gain by 50–70% versus single-pane. In new construction, look for a U-factor of 0.30 or lower and a Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC) of 0.25 or lower for west-facing windows.

The Home Energy Rating System (HERS) index scores a home's energy efficiency — lower is better. A standard new home scores around 100. An energy-efficient home scores 50–70; a net-zero home scores 0. Many El Paso new construction builders now offer HERS certification. When touring a new construction home, ask for the HERS rating — builders are required to disclose it if tested. A HERS 55 home will use roughly 45% less energy than a standard new build.

In El Paso's climate, the HVAC system accounts for 50–70% of total utility costs. A system with a SEER2 rating of 16 or higher uses significantly less electricity than a standard 14 SEER unit. Variable-speed air handlers, smart thermostats (like Ecobee or Nest), and zoned systems dramatically reduce runtime and energy consumption. When buying, always ask about the SEER rating, age, and brand of the HVAC system.