1 Million Energy Star Houses-and Growing
by Craig AxelrodNovember 9, 2009
The Government runs the Energy Star program, now boasting more than 1 million Energy Star rated houses. To achieve these Energy Star Guidelines, set by the EPA, homes must be 15% more energy efficient than homes built to the 2004 international residential code, and are often 20 to 30% more efficient than standard houses.
To earn the Energy Star certification, the homes need to include a variety of "tried-and-true" energy-efficient factors that contribute to the total efficiency of your house. These features make your home more comfortable, lower their energy demand and reduce the amount of air pollution created.
Efficient Heating and Cooling Equipment
This is one of the biggest factors in keeping your home energy efficient. Old boilers and A.C. units often waste a massive amount of energy. They use more power than they should to produce the desired results and, if they are not run efficiently, they need to be run for longer periods of time (burning even more energy). More efficient systems are better able to stabilize your home, requiring the system to be used fewer hours per day.
Effective Insulation
What's the point of heating your house if it simply leaks to the outside? A well insulated house, including floors, walls and attics, help you keep even temperatures throughout the year. As you maintain a constant temperature in your house, your climate control systems will turn on less often, using less power.
High-Performance Windows
Windows with protective coatings to keep UV light out and air tight seals to prevent drafts, help reduce your energy costs and lower their total cost of ownership.
Tight Construction and Docs
Energy Star rated homes need tight construction and air tight duct work. Holes and cracks in the home allow heat out in the winter and heat to enter in the hot months. This creates additional strain on your climate systems, wasting electricity. Leaks also trigger bigger fluctuations in the temperature of your house, requiring systems to go off and on more often. Drafts, which annoy many homeowners, are caused by such duct leaks, cracks and holes in the home.
Energy-Efficient Products
By purchasing energy efficient appliances and products, ranging from light fixtures and light bulbs to vent fans and appliances, you are able to cut your electric demand while still benefiting from the services you need.
Third-Party Verification
Independent house energy assessors are able to review the homes and certify them as Energy Star rated. They evaluate the house, through an inspection process that verifies air tightness, insulation, the ceiling structure, components used, appliances and more.
As you look to buy green energy house in Commack, be sure the house that you're looking at is Energy Star rated. All of the houses built by EmmyHomes.com, for example, our Energy Star certified. Choosing an Energy Star will reduce your costs and can deliver greater resale value in the future.