What is ENERGY STAR? 
You have probably noticed all the appliances that contain the ENERGY STAR symbol of approval. This means that those appliance manufacturers have demonstrated that their product meets or exceeds specific criteria established by the ENERGY STAR program. What you might not know is that your home can also be ENERGY STAR qualified.
Why would you want your home to be ENERGY STAR qualified? First of all, it will give you the assurance that your home is energy efficient and will save you money year after year. Also, if it comes time to sell your home, how do you think your buyer would feel about buying a home that is proven and documented to be energy efficient?
ENERGY STAR is a government program backed by the Department of Energy that helps us all save money and protect our environment with energy-efficient products and practices. Details of the ENERGY STAR home performance requirements are detailed below. The most important thing we want you to know is that these requirements are standard in all Athena Custom Homes. All we'll need to do is work with a local 3rd party ENEGY STAR Certifier and you will have confidence (and documentation) that your home is energy efficient. And possibly the best news of all – there is no cost to you!
To be ENERGY STAR qualified, a home must be at least 15 percent more energy efficient than homes built to the 2004 International Residential Code (IRC). Any home three stories or less can earn the ENERGY STAR label if it has been verified to meet EPA's guidelines for energy efficiency. This includes site-constructed homes, attached or detached homes, single or low-rise multi-family residential buildings, manufactured homes, systems-built (e.g., SIP or modular) and log homes, existing homes, or retrofitted homes. ENERGY STAR qualified homes achieve energy savings through established, reliable building technologies. Builders work with Home Energy Raters to select from a number of features when planning and building homes.
1. Effective Insulation
Properly installed, climate-appropriate insulation in floors, walls, and attics ensures even temperatures throughout the house, less energy consumption, and increased comfort.
2. High-Performance Windows
Energy-efficient windows employ advanced technologies, such as protective coatings and improved frame assemblies, 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 duct systems helps reduce drafts, moisture, dust, pollen, and noise. A tightly sealed home improves comfort and indoor air quality while reducing utility bills.
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. Typically, energy-efficient equipment is also more durable and requires less maintenance than standard models.
5. Lighting and Appliances
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, dish washers, and washing machines. These ENERGY STAR qualified products provide additional energy savings to the owner.
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 onsite testing and inspections to verify that the homes qualify as ENERGY STAR.
If it seems like these things are difficult to achieve or cost prohibitive, don’t worry. All of the criteria listed above are standard in all Athena Custom Homes. In addition, getting ENERGY STAR qualified is free! With energy costs continuing to climb, think of all the money you’ll save. There’s just not reason not to be ENERGY STAR qualified, and Athena Custom Homes can get you there!
Still looking for information on ENERGY STAR? Contact us for a copy of the informative pamphlet, “Home Performance with ENERGY STAR”. Please call us today at 401-245-2103 or request more information on-line.