Energy & Green Features
Understanding HVAC systems, utilities, appliances, and green certifications for your listing
Heating Systems
Understanding your home's heating setup helps buyers assess comfort, efficiency, and operating costs.
Heating Source (Fuel Type)
Natural Gas
Most common in Oklahoma. Efficient, affordable, reliable. Lower operating costs than electric. Requires gas line connection.
Electric
Clean, widely available, safe. Higher operating costs in Oklahoma but no gas line needed. Common with heat pumps.
Propane
Common in rural areas without natural gas. Stored in tank (leased or owned). Efficient but requires tank refills.
Heating System Types
Central Heating
Most common. Single furnace heats entire home through ductwork. Efficient, even heating, quiet operation.
Heat Pump
Provides both heating and cooling. Very efficient in mild climates. Lower operating costs. May need backup heat in extreme cold.
Geothermal
Most efficient system available. Uses earth's constant temperature. High installation cost but very low operating costs. Premium feature.
Zoned System
Multiple thermostats control different areas. Energy savings, customized comfort. Common in larger homes.
Cooling / Air Conditioning
Critical in Oklahoma's hot summers. Understanding cooling systems helps buyers assess comfort and efficiency.
Central AC
Standard whole-house cooling. Uses existing ductwork. Efficient, quiet, cools entire home evenly. Most desirable option.
Heat Pump
Combined heating/cooling system. Very efficient. One unit does both jobs. Popular modern choice.
2 Units / 3+ Units
Multiple AC systems for large homes or multi-story. Better zoning, redundancy if one fails. Higher capacity.
Ductless (Mini-Split)
No ductwork needed. Individual room control. Good for additions or homes without ducts. Efficient but more visible.
Zoned System
Different thermostats for different areas. Energy savings, personalized comfort. Valuable feature in larger homes.
Water & Sewer Systems
Water source and waste disposal affect monthly costs, maintenance, and property value.
Water Source
City Water
Municipal water service. Reliable, tested, no maintenance. Monthly bill. Most desirable to buyers.
Well
Private well water. No monthly bill but requires pump maintenance. Should be tested regularly. Common in rural areas.
Rural Water
Cooperative or district water service. Common in areas outside city limits. Similar reliability to city water.
Spring
Natural spring water source. Free water but may have flow variations. Should be tested for quality and safety.
Sewer / Septic
City Sewer
Municipal sewer connection. No maintenance, unlimited capacity. Monthly fee. Most convenient option.
Septic Tank
Private waste system. Requires pumping every 3-5 years. No monthly fee. Adequate for most homes if properly maintained.
Aerobic System
Advanced septic with air pump. Better treatment than standard septic. Requires electricity and more maintenance.
Lagoon
Large pond-based waste treatment. Requires significant land. Common on large rural properties. Low maintenance.
Hot Water Heaters
Hot water system affects energy costs and convenience. Different types serve different needs.
Tankless Water Heater
Heats water on demand. Never runs out of hot water. Very efficient. Higher upfront cost but lower operating costs. Premium feature.
Gas Water Heater
Traditional tank heated by natural gas or propane. Lower operating costs than electric. Faster recovery. Most common in Oklahoma.
Electric Water Heater
Tank heated by electric elements. Easy installation, no gas line needed. Higher operating costs but widely available.
Solar with Electric Backup
Solar panels pre-heat water, electric provides backup. Very low operating costs. Eco-friendly. Higher installation cost.
Appliances
Which appliances stay with the home significantly affects buyer interest and value.
What's Negotiable?
In Oklahoma, appliances are typically negotiable. Clearly specify what conveys to avoid confusion. Dishwasher and disposal are usually expected to stay. Washer/dryer and refrigerator are often negotiated separately.
Standard Inclusions
Dishwasher, disposal, range/oven, microwave (if built-in), and compactor typically convey as they're built-in or plumbed.
Often Negotiated
Refrigerator, washer, dryer, and freezer are frequently negotiated. Including them can make your listing more attractive.
Premium Features
Wine refrigerator, water softener, and indoor grill are valuable additions that should be highlighted if included.
Energy Efficiency Features
Energy-saving features reduce utility bills and appeal to eco-conscious buyers. Highlight all that apply.
Programmable Thermostat
Automatic temperature adjustment saves 10-30% on heating/cooling costs.
Extra Insulation
More than code minimum. Significantly reduces energy use.
Insulated Windows/Doors
Double or triple pane windows. Reduces heat transfer, noise.
Solar Features
Solar panels, tubes, or water heating. Reduces electricity costs.
Attic Ventilation
Exhaust fans, turbo vents, ridge vents reduce attic heat.
Ceiling Fans
Reduces AC load. Makes rooms feel cooler without lowering temp.
Green Certifications
Third-party verified sustainable and energy-efficient building certifications add significant value and appeal.
LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design)
Most recognized green building certification globally. Rates buildings on energy efficiency, water usage, materials, indoor air quality.
Certified
45-59 points
Silver
60-74 points
Gold
75-89 points
Platinum
90+ points
HERS (Home Energy Rating System)
Numerical score showing home energy efficiency. Lower is better. Score of 100 = typical new home. Score of 0 = net-zero home.
Score 0-85: Very efficient (better than typical new home)
Score 86-100: Standard new home efficiency
Score 100+: Less efficient than typical new home
Energy Star
EPA certification for efficient products and homes. Can certify entire home or individual components (HVAC, appliances, windows, etc.).
Energy Star certified homes use 15-30% less energy than standard homes. Individual Energy Star appliances and systems add value.
NAHB Green (National Association of Home Builders)
Builder-focused green certification with four levels based on points earned across categories.
Bronze
Silver
Gold
Emerald
Other Certifications
PHIUS (Passive House): Extremely efficient homes using minimal heating/cooling
Living Building Challenge: Most rigorous green certification. Net-positive energy and water
NGBS (National Green Building Standard): Comprehensive green rating by ICC
Tips for Energy & Green Features
- •Document all energy features - buyers actively search for efficient homes
- •Include age and brand of major systems (HVAC, water heater) in descriptions
- •Geothermal and solar systems are premium features - highlight prominently
- •Green certifications significantly increase value - include documentation
- •Tankless water heaters are attractive to buyers - emphasize never running out of hot water
- •Include recent utility bills to demonstrate efficiency
- •List all included appliances clearly to avoid confusion
- •Well and septic information should be detailed - buyers have questions
Need Help?
If you're unsure about your home's energy systems or need assistance identifying certifications, we're here to help.
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