We all want to become more energy efficient. This saves your family money and has a tremendous impact on the environment. Regardless of your motivation, buying a newly built Energy Star qualified new house helps ensure great energy savings.
What exactly is an Energy Star new house? Are all new houses “green” and good for the planet? How can I know whether the home that I’m purchaseing is truly energy efficient?
The U.S. government has defined standards as to what constitutes an Energy Star rated house. This is important because buzz words such as “green” are vague. Is a housebuilder claiming to be green simply because he used energy-efficient light bulbs? Is it really “green” just because she added extra insulation? While are good things, it does not make your new home “green.”
To be sure that new construction you’re looking at is really energy efficient, look for the official “Energy Star” certification that is only given to qualified home.
Government guidelines at www.energystar.gov, identify the criteria a new house should meet to become Energy Star qualified:
First, the new home must make use of quality insulation that is both installed and inspected correctly. Insulation should be used in the floors, walls and attics to ensure even temperatures throughout the house. This can significantly lower energy use and provide increased comfort in your house as it maintains even temperatures.
Next, the structure should be built with tight construction and well fitting duct work. Small holes and cracks can cause cold air in and warm air to escape, greatly reducing the efficiency of your new house. An opening the size of a quarter can be a problem.
Next, the home should employ efficient windows with protective coatings and improved window frames. The goal here is to prevent cold air from coming in in the winter and to keep the warm air out in the summer. High quality UV coating on the windows also prevents fading of rugs, furniture and paint in your new house.
Next, Energy Star rated appliances should be used in the house. These appliances use less gas, oil and electricity and produce reduce waste vs. non-rated appliances.
Fifth, Energy Star rated appliances should be used in the new house, including lighting fixtures, compact fluorescent bulbs, fans, appliances, air conditioning, refrigeration, dishwashers and washing machines. The more energy efficient appliances you have, the greater your savings will be.
Finally, Energy Star builders can go through a third-party verification process to assure that the homes built meet these standards. This helps ensure that builders are reputable and deliver on their energy-efficient promises.
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