Energy Star Home Guidelines
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 months 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 properly installed
into a tightly sealed home, this equipment won't 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 building partners choose the most appropriate energy-saving features
for their homes. Additionally, raters conduct onsite testing and inspections to verify the energy efficiency measures, as
well as insulation, air tightness, and duct sealing details.