What is an ENERGY STAR Home?
ENERGY STAR is the government- backed symbol for energy efficiency. The ENERGY STAR label on a new home means that it is significantly more efficient than a standard home. By purchasing an ENERGY STAR qualified home, you can have all the features you desire in your new home, plus lower utility bills. Plus, you will reduce air pollution.
Why Build An ENERGY STAR Home?
ENERGY STAR qualified homes achieve energy savings through established, reliable building technologies. Envy Homes works with Home Energy Raters to select from a number of features when planning and building homes.
- Smart Investment
To date, over 2,500 home builders have partnered with EPA to construct more than 500,000 ENERGY STAR qualified homes. By the end of the decade, more than 2 million homes are expected to earn the ENERGY STAR. The trend is clear. By choosing a home with the ENERGY STAR label, you can be confident that it will have an increasingly valued feature when the time comes to sell.
- Lower Ownership Cost
Compared with standard homes, ENERGY STAR qualified homes use substantially less energy for heating, cooling and water heating---delivering $200 to $400 in annual savings. Over the average 7 to 8 years you may live in your home, this adds up to thousands of dollars saved on utility bills. Additional savings on maintenance can also be substantial.
- Effective Insulation
Properly installed, climate-appropriate insulation in floors, walls, and attics ensures even temperatures throughout the house, while using less energy. The result is lower utility costs and a quieter, more comfortable home. Learn more about Properly Installed Insulation.
- High-Performance Windows
Windows with advanced coatings and construction help keep heat in during winter and out during summer. They also block damaging ultraviolet sunlight that can discolor carpets and furnishings. Learn more about Qualified Windows.
- Tight Construction and Ducts
Sealing holes and cracks in the home's "envelope" and in duct systems helps reduce drafts, moisture, dust, pollen, and noise. A tightly sealed home improves comfort and indoor air quality while reducing utility bills and maintenance costs. Learn more about Efficient Duct Systems.
- 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. Typically, energy-efficient equipment is also more durable and requires less maintenance than standard models. Learn more about:
o Qualified Heating Equipment
o Qualified Cooling Equipment
o Mechanical Ventilation
- Lighting and Appliances
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, dish washers, and washing machines. These ENERGY STAR qualified products provide additional energy savings to the owner. Learn more about ENERGY STAR qualified products:
o Qualified Appliances
o Qualified Lighting
o Advanced Lighting Package
o High Efficiency Water Heaters
- Third-Party Verification
With the help of independent Home Energy Raters, Envy Homes chooses the most appropriate energy-saving features for their homes. Additionally, raters conduct onsite testing and inspections to verify that our homes qualify as ENERGY STAR. Learn more about Independent Inspection and Testing.
|
.jpg)
