Which type of house may cost less to heat, cool, and build due to aligned plumbing and fixtures?

The correct answer is that a multi-level house may cost less to heat, cool, and build due to the alignment of plumbing and fixtures. In a multi-level design, the vertical arrangement often allows for more efficient use of space, making it easier to share plumbing walls between multiple bathrooms and kitchens. This can lead to reduced construction costs since fewer materials are needed, and it can also simplify the installation of plumbing systems.

Additionally, the heating and cooling systems can function more efficiently in a multi-level house because the airflow patterns can be better managed. With bedrooms and living spaces stacked on top of one another, climate control can be more targeted, which can help maintain even temperatures throughout the home and potentially lower energy bills.

In contrast, a one-story house may have a larger footprint that requires more exterior wall space, which can lead to greater energy loss. A two-story house might also incur higher costs if plumbing is spread out further across two levels. Split-level designs, while potentially benefiting from compact layouts, may introduce more complexity in terms of heating and cooling due to the staggered floor levels.