ENERGY STAR homes must meet guidelines for energy efficiency set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. ENERGY STAR qualified homes are at least 15% more energy efficient than homes built to the 2006 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC).
Features of ENERGY STAR qualified new homes include:
- Effective Insulation- Properly installed insulation that meets or exceeds national coderequirements helps achieve even temperatures throughout the house whileusing less energy. The result is lower utility costs and a quieter, morecomfortable home.
- High-PerformanceWindows - Advanced window coatings help keep heat in duringwinter and out during summer. They also block damaging ultravioletsunlight that can discolor carpets and furniture.
- Tight Constructionand Tight Ducts - Attention to detail by sealing all holes,cracks, and seams in ducts and construction assemblies helps eliminatedrafts, moisture, dust, pests, and pollen. This improves comfort and thequality of indoor air, while lowering maintenance costs.
- Energy-EfficientHeating and Cooling Equipment - More efficient and properly sizedheating and cooling systems use less energy, which reduces utility bills.These systems also turn on and off less frequently, removing more humidityand providing better comfort.
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.
Some utilities in North Carolina offer a 5% reduction in electricity rates for homes that qualify as ENERGY STAR. Thus, the energy-saving features of the homes will reduce heating, cooling, and hot water bills, and the utility rate reduction will reduce the total cost of all electricity use. In addition to the efficiency requirements, the North Carolina State Energy Office recommends attention to combustion safety and an effective home ventilation system along with other measures that help provide for quality indoor air.
According to Larry Shirley, director of the State Energy Office, “ENERGY STAR homes are one of the key recommendations in the State Energy Plan. They will typically save $300 to $500 per year on heating, cooling, and hot water bills. That's $9,000 to $15,000 over the life of a 30-year mortgage.”
The EPA estimates that by 2010, savings from energy-efficient investments will reduce annual greenhouse gas emissions in the United States by 2.4 million tons – the equivalent of the pollution produced by 1.7 million cars – and save taxpayers more than $750 million per year.
Why not own a home that can save you money and protect the environment?
ENERGY STAR HOMES = SAVINGS, COMFORT, EFFICIENCY