ENERGY STAR® Homes

What Are ENERGY STAR® Homes?
The ENERGY STAR® Homes Program was developed by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency as a way to help homeowners use high efficiency technology and equipment and reduce energy for heating, cooling and water heating by at least 30%. Strategies used to achieve these objectives include improving thermal performance through advanced technology windows, stabilizing building temperature through improved insulation, sealing ducts to eliminate air leaks, and sealing gaps in plumbing, framing and wiring to reduce air infiltration. Homeowners benefit from reduced utility costs and more comfortable heating and cooling.

How Can This Improve Air Quality?
Improving energy efficiency in homes can have a powerful impact on air quality. That’s because lower energy usage reduces the levels of fossil fuels burned at power plants, which, in turn, reduces the levels of air pollutants that negatively impact ozone. Residential energy accounts for about 15% of all nitrogen oxide emissions, 20% of all U.S. carbon dioxide emissions and 26% of all sulfur dioxide emissions. Between 1995 and 2000 alone, the ENERGY STAR® Homes Program saved an estimated $1.8 billion in utility costs.

Who Should Participate?
Homebuyers and home builders who value clean air and energy efficiency should participate in the ENERGY STAR® Homes Program and join Clean Air Counts!

Why Should You Participate In The ENERGY STAR® Homes Program?

Benefits of participating in the ENERGY STAR® Homes Program include:

• Reduced emissions of nitrogen oxide, carbon dioxide and sulfur dioxide for improved air quality.
• Reduced levels of energy use for heating and cooling air and water heating.
• Stabilized building temperature.
• Reduced air infiltration for better energy management.
• Lower utility costs.
• More comfortable environment year round.
• Value-added appeal when selling a home.