 ENERGY
STAR qualified homes are independently verified to be at least 30% more
energy efficient than homes built to the 1993 national Model Energy Code
or 15% more efficient than state energy code, whichever is more
rigorous.* These savings are based on heating, cooling, and hot water
energy use and are typically achieved through a combination of:
building envelope upgrades, high performance windows, controlled air
infiltration, upgraded heating and air conditioning systems, tight duct
systems and upgraded water-heating equipment. These features contribute
to improved home quality and homeowner comfort, and to lower energy
demand and reduced air pollution. ENERGY STAR also encourages the use of
energy-efficient lighting and appliances, as well as features designed
to improve indoor air quality.Here are some questions commonly asked
about ENERGY STAR qualified homes:
How does a home earn the ENERGY STAR label?
The ENERGY STAR label is earned only after the home's energy
efficiency is verified, either by an independent third-party such as an
accredited home energy rater or Builder Option Package (BOP) verifier,
or by adhering to the quality control procedures established for
HUD-code manufactured homes.
What types of homes can earn the ENERGY STAR label?
Any single-family or multi-family residential home that is
three stories or less in height can qualify to receive the ENERGY STAR
label. This includes traditional site-constructed homes as well as
modular, systems-built (e.g., insulated concrete forms, structurally
insulated panels), and HUD-code manufactured homes.
Can existing homes earn the ENERGY STAR?
Yes. Existing homes can be qualified for the ENERGY STAR label
if they meet ENERGY STAR's performance guidelines. However, it is not
always practical or cost-effective to bring an existing home to this
level of efficiency. Nevertheless, the energy efficiency of existing
homes can often be greatly improved using cost-effective retrofit
techniques. Visit Home Improvement to learn how.
Do energy-efficient homes look different?
No, builders and developers constructing ENERGY STAR qualified
new homes do not have to alter their architectural designs. An ENERGY
STAR qualified new home can be built in whatever style the consumer
prefers or is most popular in a particular geographic region.
Does an energy-efficient home cost more?
No. An ENERGY STAR qualified new home actually costs less
because you will spend less on your new home's utility bill each month.
These energy savings can more than offset any increase in mortgage
payments needed for the improved energy features and can result in a
positive monthly cash flow. Further, ENERGY STAR financing partners
offer special mortgage packages for buyers of ENERGY STAR qualified new
homes.
How will I know if a home is labeled ENERGY STAR?
Look for the ENERGY STAR label, which should be prominently
displayed on the circuit breaker box. You can also ask your builder for
the home's ENERGY STAR certificate. This optional certificate indicates
that the home has been verified to meet EPA's ENERGY STAR qualified new
homes performance guidelines.
How can I participate in ENERGY STAR as a home industry
professional?
ENERGY STAR currently partners with four main types of home
industry professionals: homebuilders, home energy raters, utilities and
other sponsoring organizations, and home lenders. After completing and
signing a partnership agreement, partners can take advantage of the
widely recognized ENERGY STAR name, logos, and a variety of other
marketing resources. Other home industry professionals can promote
ENERGY STAR as well.
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