1 Million Energy Star Houses-and Growing
The Government runs the Energy Star program, now boasting more than 1 million Energy Star rated homes. To achieve these Energy Star Guidelines, set by the EPA, houses must be at least 15% more energy efficient than houses built to the 2004 international residential code, and are often 20 to 30% more efficient than standard homes.
To earn the Energy Star seal of approval, the homes must include a variety of “tried-and-true” energy-efficient factors that contribute to the overall efficiency of your home. These features make your home more comfortable, lower their energy requirements and reduce the amount of air pollution produced.
Efficient Heating and Cooling Equipment
This is one of the biggest factors in keeping your home very 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 run inefficiently, they need to be run for longer periods of time (consuming additional energy). More energy efficient systems are better able to stabilize your house, requiring less demand on the system.
Effective Insulation
Why heat your home if it simply escapes to the outside? A well insulated home, including attics, floors and walls help you maintain even temperatures throughout the year. As you preserve a constant temperature in your house, your climate control systems will activate less frequently, using less power.
High-Performance Windows
Windows with protective coatings to keep UV light out and 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 demand tight construction and air tight duct work. Cracks and holes in the house allow heat out in the cold months and heat to enter in the summer. This creates additional strain on your heating and cooling equipment, wasting power. Leaks also cause greater variations in the temperature of your home, requiring systems to go off and on more frequently. Drafts, which frustrate many houseowners, are caused by such duct leaks, cracks and holes in the home.
Energy-Efficient Products
By using energy efficient appliances and products, ranging from light fixtures and light bulbs to vent fans and kitchen appliances, you are able to reduce your electric demand while still benefiting from the services you need.
Third-Party Verification
Independent home energy assessors are able to assess the houses and certify them as Energy Star rated. They evaluate the house, through an inspection process that check air tightness, insulation, the ceiling structure, materials used, appliances and more.
As you hunt to buy an energy efficient home in Commack, be sure the house that you’re thinking about at is Energy Star rated. All of the homes built by EmmyHomes.com, for example, our Energy Star certified. Choosing an Energy Star will reduce your costs and can increase your resale value in the future.
Craig Axelrod is a partner with Emmy. For additional info about Long Island Energy Efficient Homes and Commack New Contruction visit EmmyHomes.com
Recent Comments