Certified Homes
When it comes to energy efficiency, certified homes are a great way to ensure that a home has been designed and built with energy efficiency in mind. These homes have been evaluated and certified by independent third-party organizations to meet specific energy efficiency standards.
Energy Star Certified Homes
One of the most well-known certification programs for energy-efficient homes is Energy Star. Homes that are Energy Star certified meet strict energy efficiency guidelines set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). These guidelines cover a range of areas, including insulation, windows, heating and cooling systems, and appliances.
Energy Star certified homes are typically 20-30% more energy-efficient than homes built to code, which can translate into significant savings on energy bills. Additionally, these homes are often of higher quality and come with a higher level of trust, as they have been independently verified to meet stringent energy efficiency standards.
Other Certification Programs
While Energy Star is a well-known certification program, there are other programs available as well. For example, the National Green Building Standard (NGBS) is another certification program that focuses on energy efficiency, as well as other sustainable building practices such as water efficiency and indoor air quality.
Other certification programs include LEED for Homes (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design), Passive House, and Zero Energy Ready Homes. Each of these programs has its own set of energy efficiency standards and requirements, and homeowners can choose the program that best fits their needs and goals.
In summary, certified homes are a great way to ensure that a home is energy-efficient and of high quality. Energy Star certified homes, in particular, are a popular and trusted option, but there are other certification programs available as well. Homeowners should consider their options and choose the program that best fits their needs and goals.