Going Green

Going Green and the the Blue Label

More and more home buyers are becoming interested in increased home energy efficiency, from the windows and doors, to heating and air-conditioning systems. When homes are built according to Energy Star guidelines, they are awarded the designation of an Energy Star home. This certification states that a home or building meets strict energy efficiency standards, as stipulated by the Environmental Protection Agency.

To earn the certification, homes must be built or retrofitted to be at least 15% more energy efficient than homes built to 2004 International Residential Code standards. Homes must also include additional energy saving features that typically make them 20- 30% more efficient than the average home.

What does the Energy Star label represent? Energy Star is a voluntary partnership between the government and other organizations, including over 3,000 builders. AU members pledge to protect the environment and improve quality of life through energy efficient practices and products. Products that have earned the Energy Star designation at present include windows, heating and cooling equipment, lighting and home appliances. Any home three stories or less can earn the Energy Star label if it has been verified to meet EPA's guidelines, including: single family, attached, and low-rise multi-family homes; manufactured homes; systems-built homes (e.g., SIP, ICF, or modular construction); log homes, concrete homes; and even existing retrofitted Homes. Energy Star qualified homes can include a variety of 'tried-and-true' energy-efficient features that contribute to improved home quality and homeowner comfort, and to lower energy demand and reduced air pollution:

1. Effective Insulation

Properly installed and inspected insulation in floors, walls, and attics ensures even temperatures throughout the house, reduced energy use, and increased comfort.

2. High-Performance Windows

Energy-efficient windows employ advanced technologies, such as protective coatings and improved frames, to help keep heat in during winter and out during summer. These windows also block damaging ultraviolet sunlight that can discolor carpets and furnishings.

3. Tight Construction and Ducts

Sealing holes and cracks in the home's "envelope" and in heating and cooling duct systems helps reduce drafts, moisture, dust, pollen, and noise. A tightly sealed home improves comfort and indoor air quality while reducing utility and maintenance.

4. Efficient Heating and Cooling Equipment

In addition to using less energy to operate, energy-efficient heating and cooling systems can be quieter, reduce indoor humidity, and improve the overall comfort of the home. When property installed into a tightly sealed home, this equipment won It have to work so hard to heat and cool the home.

5. Efficient Products

Energy Star qualified homes may also be equipped with Energy Star qualified products ~ lighting fixtures, compact fluorescent bulbs, ventilation fans, and appliances, such as refrigerators, dishwashers, and washing machines.

6. Third-Party Verification

With the help of independent Home Energy Raters, Energy Star builder partners choose the most appropriate energy-saving features for their homes. Additionally, raters conduct on-site testing and inspections to verify the energy efficiency measures, as well as insulation, air tightness, and duct sealing details.

Shawn.murray@remax.net