For over 40 years we’ve been taking custom homes from concept to completion, and over the years we’ve watched homes become smarter as technology improves. Who would have thought 40 years ago that you would be able to control all the lights in your home with your smartphone? One of the most important aspects of technology upgrades, though, is increased efficiency.
Recently, we talked about Geothermal heating and cooling systems, and how they can save you and the environment. We want to continue the conversation on energy efficiency for your home by highlighting Energy Star.
More than appliances, it’s an energy efficiency movement
You are probably familiar with Energy Star appliances, but did you know that Energy Star is actually an entire program dedicated to promoting energy-efficient products, homes, and buildings?
The EPA actually established Energy Star as a voluntary program with the goals of reducing energy consumption, improving energy security, and reducing pollution. Consumers, homeowners, and builders across the nation have really embraced the initiative. In fact, over 2 billion tons of greenhouse gases have been reduced and $362 billion saved on utility bills.
Building an Energy Star home
Joining the Energy Star initiative can be as simple as purchasing appliances that have been tested and certified by Energy Star based on their rigorous standards, but you can go as far as to build an Energy Star certified home.
Energy efficient homes have many benefits, for both you and the environment, so investing in building a custom home that meets Energy Star standards is worth it, especially if you plan to stay in your home for many years.
Energy Star does have a defined building standards, though, and specific paths must be followed to meet the requirements. The Prescriptive Path is predetermined while the Performance Path is customizable to your needs. Four checklists are required for both paths:
- Thermal Enclosure System Rater Checklist
- HVAC System Quality Installation Rater Checklist
- HVAC System Quality Installation Contractor Checklist
- Water Management System Builder Checklist
You can find out more about the exact requirements here.
If all of these requirements and checklists seem a little daunting, then you’re in luck, because here at P.L. Lyons Architectural Builders we have experience building energy efficient homes.
Experienced Energy Efficient Home Builders
We participated in the 2014 Homearama, building a custom home in Shake’s Run with environmentally friendly features. The neighborhood bills itself as “green” community and LEED program.
If you’re ready to start building your dream home, and you want to have the latest energy efficient technology and features, schedule a consultation and we’ll take your dream from concept to completion.
Not ready to completely rebuild? Here are some tips for saving money on your summer energy bills in your existing home and more ways to go green in your home.
