When most people see the Energy Star label on a dishwasher, washing machine or appliance, they understand that it will use less energy, save money and help protect the environment. But you may wonder what kind of guidelines allow a home to be Energy Star rated and how that can translate into direct benefits for you?
To earn the Energy Star, a home must meet guidelines for energy efficiency set by the Environment Protection Agency. Homes must be built at least 15% more energy efficient than those constructed to the 2004 International Residential Code. Additionally they should include energy-saving features than can further improve energy efficiency by another 20-30%.
Any variety of the energy-efficient features can be incorporated into the home to meet the guidelines. Typically, these will include:
• Effective Insulation
• Energy-Efficient Windows
• Well-Sealed Heating and Cooling Ducts
• Efficient Heating and Cooling Systems
• Energy-Efficient Appliances
• A Home Energy Raters Independent Verification that these standards have been met.
Owning an energy-efficient home clearly provides the home owner with a lower energy bill as a result, and this is, of course, a great benefit. Compared with standard homes, the savings on heating, cooling and water heating can deliver $200-400/year for an average sized home. However, there are other important benefits too:
Seeing the energy star label on a home gives the buyer a guarantee and peace of mind knowing that the builder has reached measurable standards of energy efficiency in the home's construction.
Energy efficient homes perform better than standard homes. There are fewer drafts, less hot and cold spots, and more consistent temperatures from room to room. They are more comfortable to live in.
Purchasing an Energy Star homes helps contribute less to air pollution. Most people don't know that their home can be a greater source of pollution than their car. By cutting back on energy used, you reduce the amount of fumes and pollution that you release into the atmosphere.
Last, and by no means least, the trend to build energy efficient homes is increasing rapidly. It is estimated that by the end of this decade there will be more than 2 million homes carrying the Energy Star label. Consequently, the label is increasingly becoming a valued feature of homes when they are resold, so purchasing an Energy Star property can help increase the investment you made in your home.