Seven Frequently Asked Questions About Energy Star Homes
1. What is an Energy Star Home?
According to the U.S. Government, an Energy Star qualified home
uses at least 30% less energy in heating, cooling and hot water,
than those built according to the 1993 National Model Energy
Code. Energy Star homes may use even less energy than homes
built before 1993.
2. What techniques are used in building an Energy Star
home?
Energy Star homes are built with energy efficient appliances,
high performance windows, improved insulation, tightly sealed
construction with little air infiltration, upgraded heating and
air conditioning systems, efficient ducting, and upgraded water
heating equipment.
3. Can an Energy Star home save money?
Yes. Energy Star homes lower monthly utility bills by at least
30 percent. There are also savings in obtaining an energy
efficient mortgage from an Energy Star lender. Energy Star homes
also have a higher resale value.
4. Are Energy Star homes good for the environment?
Yes. 15 percent of U.S. energy use is from home consumption.
Home energy use produces 17 percent of U.S. greenhouse gas
emissions. Since 1995, Energy Star homes have eliminated four
million pounds of carbon emissions nationwide and the U.S.
Government has set a goal of reducing greenhouse gases by 9
million metric tons through Energy Star qualified homes by the
year 2012.
5. Are Energy Star homes healthier to live in?
Yes. Energy Star homes are built with tight construction
standards, including the air sealing of the joints, holes and
seams created during construction. This air sealing greatly
reduces the penetration of outside air pollution, pollen, car
exhaust, dust, radon and pest infestation. Condensation within
the wall structure, which is responsible for mold formation, is
also lowered or eliminated.
6. Are Energy Star homes comfortable?
Yes. Because the home is air sealed and tightly constructed,
cold drafts are virtually eliminated, outside moisture is
greatly lowered, and the home is much quieter. Room temperature
is equalized in different locations of the home. Air ducting is
balanced, producing the same amount of air flow from each grill,
even in remote rooms.
7. How will I know if a new home is Energy Star compliant?
The Energy Star label should be prominently displayed near the
circuit breaker box of your new home. You can also ask the
builder for the home's Energy Star certificate. Verified Energy
Star builders can be located @ EnergyStar.gov under "Find Local
Homebuilders"