Energy Star Homes Save Power and Money Interview with Rick David of Consumer-Guides
InfoFAQ: What are Energy Star Homes?
The U.S. Government reports that an Energy Star qualified home uses at least 30% less energy in heating, cooling and hot water, than those built according to the 1993 National Model Energy Code. Energy Star homes may save even more over homes built before 1993.
InfoFAQ: How is an Energy Star home built?
Using energy efficient technology, Energy Star homes are built with energy saving appliances, high performance windows, improved insulation, tightly sealed construction with little air infiltration, upgraded heating and air conditioning systems, efficient ducting, and upgraded water heating equipment.
InfoFAQ: How much money can an Energy Star home save?
Energy Star homes lower monthly utility bills by at least 30 percent. Energy Star homes also have a higher resale value. There are also potential savings by obtaining an energy efficient mortgage from an Energy Star lender.
InfoFAQ: How do Energy Star homes help the environment?
15 percent of U.S. energy use is from home consumption. Home energy use produces 17 percent of U.S. greenhouse gas emissions. Since 1995, Energy Star homes have eliminated four million pounds of carbon emissions nationwide and the U.S. Government has set a goal of reducing greenhouse gases by 9 million metric tons through Energy Star qualified homes by the year 2012.
InfoFAQ: Is it healthier to live in an Energy Star home?
Yes. Energy Star homes are built with tight construction standards, including the air sealing of the joints, holes and seams created during construction. Condensation within the wall structure, which is responsible for mold formation, is also lowered or eliminated. This air sealing greatly reduces the penetration of outside air pollution, pollen, car exhaust, dust, radon and pest infestation.
InfoFAQ: But how comfortable is an Energy Star home to live in?
Because the home is air sealed and tightly constructed, cold drafts are virtually eliminated, outside moisture is greatly lowered, and the home is much quieter. Room temperature is equalized in different locations of the home. Air ducting is balanced, producing the same amount of air flow from each grill, even in remote rooms.
InfoFAQ: Is there a way to tell if a new home is Energy Star compliant?
Yes. The Energy Star label should be prominently displayed near the circuit breaker box of your new home. You can also ask the builder for the home's Energy Star certificate. Verified Energy Star builders such as Pardee Homes in Southern California can be located @ EnergyStar.gov under "Find Local Homebuilders"
Rick David writes for http://www.Consumer-Guides.info
and other online publications on topics of consumer interest and
advocacy.
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