Demand for energy-efficient multifamily housing is at an all-time high. As developers and builders seek to differentiate their projects, meet stricter energy codes, and appeal to environmentally conscious renters, integrating high-performance strategies into new construction has become a top priority. Energy efficiency is no longer a feature—it’s a foundational requirement for success in today’s multifamily market.
Energy Diagnostics has established itself as a trusted partner for multifamily developers, offering the energy modeling, consulting, and certification services necessary to design buildings that are both high-performing and tenant-friendly. From initial design to final verification, our expert team ensures that your multifamily project exceeds efficiency expectations.
Why Energy Efficiency Matters in Multifamily New Construction
Energy-efficient design directly impacts a building’s operating costs, tenant satisfaction, and long-term marketability. Multifamily developers and builders are increasingly recognizing that:
Lower utility costs lead to higher tenant retention and lease appeal.
Efficient mechanical systems reduce strain on equipment and improve durability.
Certifications and HERS scores contribute to project financing eligibility and branding.
Comfort and indoor air quality become key differentiators in competitive rental markets.
Optimizing energy efficiency is not just about reducing consumption—it’s about creating buildings that perform well, keep tenants comfortable, and meet modern building expectations.
Key Strategies for High-Performance Multifamily Design
1. Holistic Energy Modeling
Accurate energy modeling is essential to understanding a building’s performance before construction begins. Energy Diagnostics provides early-stage modeling that informs design decisions, predicts HERS scores, and pinpoints the most cost-effective energy upgrades.
Our team evaluates:
Building envelope specifications (insulation, window types, air barriers)
HVAC and domestic hot water (DHW) system efficiencies
Lighting, appliance, and ventilation choices
Renewable energy opportunities
These simulations allow developers to compare strategies and make smart, performance-driven investments.
2. Efficient Building Envelopes
The building envelope is the first line of defense against energy loss. Proper insulation, tight air sealing, and high-performance windows are essential for minimizing heat transfer and maintaining indoor comfort.
Energy Diagnostics provides guidance on materials and construction practices that:
Meet or exceed energy code requirements
Optimize thermal boundary continuity
Reduce infiltration rates for improved HVAC performance
Our field verification team ensures that what is designed gets properly implemented during construction.
3. Right-Sized HVAC Systems
Oversized or undersized HVAC systems are common culprits of discomfort and inefficiency in multifamily units. Our team performs Manual J, S, and D load calculations specific to each unit type and orientation, ensuring that systems:
Deliver consistent temperatures across zones
Operate at peak efficiency
Maintain adequate humidity and ventilation
We work with traditional ducted systems as well as modern approaches like Rheia air distribution for duct-in-conditioned-space designs.
4. Air Sealing and Blower Door Testing
In new multifamily construction, compartmentalization is critical. Air leakage between units can compromise indoor air quality, increase energy bills, and affect sound transmission.
Energy Diagnostics conducts unit-level blower door testing to:
Ensure compliance with program standards (e.g., 3.0 ACH50 or lower)
Identify leakage pathways during construction
Verify proper sealing around penetrations and wall assemblies
Our testing protocols meet ENERGY STAR Multifamily New Construction (MFNC), NGBS, and local code requirements.
5. Balanced Ventilation and Indoor Air Quality
Proper ventilation is essential to maintaining tenant comfort and ensuring healthy indoor environments. We advise builders on:
Designing balanced ventilation systems (ERVs/HRVs)
Complying with ASHRAE 62.2 ventilation standards
Avoiding over-ventilation which can waste energy
Tenant comfort and well-being are at the core of effective multifamily design, and IAQ strategies must be integrated early in the planning process.
Green Building Certifications for Multifamily Projects
Achieving a nationally recognized green building certification is one of the most effective ways to validate your project’s energy performance and gain a competitive advantage.
1. ENERGY STAR Multifamily New Construction (MFNC)
ENERGY STAR MFNC is designed for low- and mid-rise multifamily buildings. It requires:
ENERGY STAR-certified equipment and lighting
Verified air sealing and insulation installation
Proper HVAC and ventilation design (based on Manual J, S, D, and ASHRAE 62.2)
Third-party verification through a HERS rating provider like Energy Diagnostics
Projects that achieve ENERGY STAR certification benefit from:
Reduced utility costs for tenants
Stronger lease-up performance
Recognition from utility incentive programs and financial institutions
2. National Green Building Standard (NGBS)
The NGBS certification program offers flexibility and a tiered rating system (Bronze to Emerald). It focuses on:
Lot design and development
Resource and energy efficiency
Indoor environmental quality
Operation, maintenance, and education
Energy Diagnostics offers NGBS Green Verifier services to guide multifamily projects through the full certification process, including:
Pre-construction consulting and modeling
Field inspections and testing
Submittal and documentation assistance
3. Enterprise Green Communities (EGC)
Often used in affordable housing projects, EGC provides criteria to promote sustainability and health in multifamily buildings. Requirements include:
Integrated design process
Improved building envelope and mechanical systems
Resident-focused health and comfort criteria
We support developers by ensuring EGC compliance during design and verifying critical construction elements through third-party inspections.
The Energy Diagnostics Proven Process
Multifamily builders need more than just compliance—they need a proven partner that helps them reach their goals from day one. Our five-step process ensures clarity, precision, and measurable results:
Set Expectations: We begin with project reviews and clear communication to align on scope, certifications, and energy targets.
Tailor Product Designs: Using energy models and HVAC load calculations, we optimize design choices to meet performance and budget goals.
Assess Current Practices: Throughout construction, we monitor field practices and offer guidance to ensure standards are being met.
Resolve Concerns: Our team addresses construction challenges with on-site troubleshooting and practical solutions.
Target Progress Opportunities: Post-verification reviews help identify areas for future improvement and long-term value.
This collaborative approach ensures that your project remains on track, compliant, and high-performing at every stage.
Why Builders Choose Energy Diagnostics for Multifamily Projects
Energy Diagnostics brings deep experience and technical expertise to the multifamily construction space. Here’s what sets us apart:
Multifamily Specialists: We understand the unique energy dynamics of multifamily buildings, from shared walls to diverse occupancy patterns.
Certified Professionals: Our team includes certified HERS raters, NGBS Green Verifiers, and ENERGY STAR partners.
Responsive Support: We provide quick turnaround times, detailed reporting, and timely field verification.
National and Regional Reach: We support multifamily builders across the Midwest and beyond.
Innovation-Friendly: Whether you’re building to Rheia duct standards or testing modular construction, we can adapt our services to support your vision.
Let’s Build the Future of Multifamily Together
Your next multifamily development deserves more than code compliance—it deserves to stand out as a leader in energy performance and tenant satisfaction. Energy Diagnostics is ready to help you deliver a high-efficiency, high-comfort building that meets national green standards and exceeds market expectations.
Connect with our multifamily team to get started on your next project. Let’s optimize energy efficiency and tenant comfort—from the ground up.