How We Are Energy Efficient
What is ENERGY STAR?
ENERGY STAR is
the government-backed symbol for energy efficiency. The mark identifies
new homes, buildings, and more than 50 types of products that are energy
efficient and offer the features, quality and performance that today's
consumers expect. A home that earns the ENERGY STAR is significantly
more efficient than a standard home. By purchasing an ENERGY STAR qualified
home, you can have all the features you desire in your new home, plus
better performance and lower utility bills - all while helping prevent
greenhouse gas emissions.
- Tight Construction and Ducts
Advanced techniques for sealing holes and cracks in the home's "envelope" and
in heating and cooling ducts help reduce drafts, moisture, dust, pollen,
pests and noise. A tightly sealed home improves comfort and indoor
air quality while lowering utility and maintenance.
- Effective Insulation
Properly installed and inspected insulation in floors, walls and
attics ensures even temperatures throughout the house, while using
less energy.
The result is lower utility costs and a quieter, more comfortable
home
- Efficient Heating and Cooling Equipment
An energy-efficient, properly installed heating and cooling system
uses less energy to operate, which reduces your utility bills.
This system
can also be quieter, reduce indoor humidity and improve the overall
comfort of your home.
- High Performance Windows
Energy-efficient windows employ advanced technologies, such as protective
coatings and improved frame assemblies, to help keep heat in during
the winter and out during the summer. These windows also block
damaging ultraviolet sunlight that can discolor carpets and furnishings.
- Efficient Products
Your home may also be equipped with ENERGY STAR
qualified products - lighting fixtures, compact flourscent bulbs, ventilation
fans,
and
appliances - that offer additional savings.
- Independent Testing
While it's easy to claim that homes are energy
efficient, ENERGY STAR building partners back that up with verification
by an independent
Home Energy Rater. The Rater conducts onsite inspections and testing
to verify the performance of the energy efficiency features in
your
home.
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