If you're having a new house built, or even if you're just in the initial planning stages, you owe it to yourself to make sure your home will be as energy efficient as possible.

Make sure you get a caulking package that includes sealing all wiring holes and anywhere there's a seam between materials. Then, on the outside, a breathable housewrap should go on before siding, stucco or brick.

The wall insulation should have a minimum R-value of R-15 to 19 -- R-value being the measure of resistance to transfer of heat and cool. But if you ask your builder for 2x6 exterior wall studs instead of the conventional 2x4s, the R-value will be even higher.

One of the areas with the greatest potential for energy loss is the attic, so make sure you have enough insulation up there, too. Ventilation in the attic is critical to keeping heat from being trapped during the warmer months.

Your water heater also uses a lot of energy, and where it's placed can make a big difference.

A heat pump will save you the most on your heating and cooling costs, but whatever type you choose, be sure to look for an air conditioning system with as high a SEER rating as possible. Each point of a SEER rating accounts for saving about 8% in cooling costs.

I'm Michael Holigan, About The House.