To earn the ENERGY STAR, a home must meet guidelines for energy efficiency set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. These homes are at least 15% more energy efficient than homes built to the 2004 International Residential Code (IRC), and include additional energy-saving features that typically make them 20–30% more efficient than standard homes.
And with homebuyers increasingly interested in green
building, energy efficiency is the place to start. That's because the energy
used in homes often comes from the burning of fossil fuels at power plants,
which contributes to smog, acid rain, and risks of global warming. So, the less
energy used, the less air pollution generated. And the easy way to make sure a
new home is energy efficient is to look for the blue ENERGY STAR mark, the
government-backed symbol for energy efficiency.
ENERGY STAR qualified homes can include a variety of
'tried-and-true' energy-efficient features that contribute to improved home
quality and homeowner comfort, and to lower energy demand and reduced air
pollution:
1. Effective Insulation
Properly installed and inspected insulation in floors,
walls, and attics ensures even temperatures throughout the house, reduced energy use, and increased
comfort.
2. High-Performance Windows
Energy-efficient windows employ advanced technologies, such
as protective coatings and improved frames, to help keep heat in during winter
and out during summer. These windows also block damaging ultraviolet sunlight
that can discolor carpets and furnishings.
3. Tight Construction and Ducts
Sealing holes and cracks in the home's "envelope"
and in heating and cooling duct systems helps reduce drafts, moisture, dust,
pollen, and noise. A tightly sealed home improves comfort and indoor air quality while reducing utility and
maintenance.
4. Efficient Heating and Cooling Equipment
In addition to using less energy to operate,
energy-efficient heating and cooling systems can be quieter, reduce indoor
humidity, and improve the overall comfort of the home. When properly installed
into a tightly sealed home, this equipment won't have to work so hard to heat
and cool the home.
5. Efficient Products
ENERGY STAR qualified homes may also be equipped with ENERGY
STAR qualified products — lighting fixtures, compact fluorescent bulbs,
ventilation fans, and appliances, such as refrigerators, dishwashers, and
washing machines.
6. Third-Party Verification
With the help of independent Home Energy Raters, ENERGY STAR
builder partners choose the most appropriate energy-saving features for their
homes. Additionally, raters conduct onsite testing and inspections to verify
the energy efficiency measures, as well as insulation, air tightness, and duct
sealing details.
Interested in an Atlantic Builders Energy Star certified home?? Visit our website here to learn more!
