HERS Score - What & Why?

What is a HERS^® Score?

A HERS Score (Home Energy Rating System) is like the MPG rating on a new car’s window sticker. It shows how efficiently the home uses energy. But unlike MPG, a lower score is better. In fact, it's more like a golf score: the lower it is, the more efficient your home is. That means tighter construction, smarter insulation, and less wasted energy.

Learn why you should know a home's HERS Score before making a buying decision...

Why do HERS Scores matter for homebuyers?

Because new home energy efficiency directly affects your comfort and monthly costs. Lower HERS Scores mean tighter construction, better insulation, and fewer air leaks. Insight Homes delivers some of the lowest scores in the industry thanks to our Zero Energy Ready Home standards.

How does a HERS Score affect energy usage?

The score reflects how much energy your home will use compared to a standard new home built in 2006. A home with a HERS Score of 50 uses half the energy. Many Insight Homes score in the teens, meaning they use 80–90% less energy than average homes. That’s a big difference in energy usage and long-term cost.

Why does HERS compare to a 2006 home?

The HERS Index uses 2006 energy code standards as a baseline because it was the national benchmark when the system was created. This provides a consistent and fair way to compare all homes—whether new or old—on an equal playing field.

What does a low HERS Score mean?

It means the home is significantly more efficient than average. Most resale homes score over 100. The national average for new homes build today is around 55. Insight Homes often achieves scores as low as 10, making us over 5 times more efficient than the typical new build. That kind of efficiency can mean major savings—and more comfort too.

Is a lower HERS Score better?

Yes. Each point lower on the scale represents about 1% more energy efficiency. A home with a score of 10 is roughly 90% more efficient than a standard code-built home. Insight Homes consistently beat the average by a wide margin—and that’s something buyers should take seriously.

How does a HERS Score impact my utility bills?

The lower the score, the lower your bills. Homes with better insulation, air sealing, and HVAC systems use less energy to stay comfortable. That adds up to serious savings—especially as energy prices continue to rise. Many Insight homeowners report their bills are far lower than they were in their previous homes.

What else should I know?

• The average new home in the U.S. scores around 55—about 45% more efficient than a 2006-code home.
• The HERS Index uses 2006 code as a baseline to compare all homes fairly.
• Resale homes often score worse, cost more to run, and may need expensive upgrades to catch up.
• HERS Scores measure energy efficiency—not comfort or noise—but smarter construction often improves both.
• Homes with low HERS Scores typically have fewer drafts, more stable indoor temps, and quieter interiors.

Want Proof?

Every Insight Home is tested and certified by an independent HERS rater. You’ll get a score you can trust—and results you can feel.

Need More Proof?

*Based on RESNET 2024 data