Energy Star certification is a program created by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to promote energy efficiency and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
An Energy Star Certified home is a home that meets strict energy efficiency guidelines set by the EPA. These guidelines are designed to help homeowners save money on their utility bills and reduce the environmental impact of their energy use.
To earn Energy Star certification, a home must meet a set of performance standards for energy efficiency in several key areas, including insulation, air sealing, heating and cooling systems, ventilation, lighting, and appliances. These standards are based on the Home Energy Rating System (HERS) Index, which is used to measure a home's energy efficiency.
Energy Star Certified homes typically include features such as:
- High-performance windows and insulation to help reduce heating and cooling costs
- Airtight construction to help prevent drafts and improve indoor air quality
- Energy-efficient heating and cooling systems, such as heat pumps, use less energy than standard systems
- Energy-efficient lighting and appliances, such as LED light bulbs and Energy Star Certified appliances
- Proper ventilation to help maintain indoor air quality
Homes that meet the Energy Star certification standards are typically at least 10% more energy efficient than homes built to standard building codes and can save homeowners hundreds or even thousands of dollars on their utility bills over the lifetime of the home.
