The US Government runs the Energy Star program, now touting more than 1 million Energy Star rated homes. To achieve these guidelines, set by the EPA, homes must be 15% more energy efficient than houses built to the 2004 international residential code, and are often 20 to 30% more efficient than standard homes.

To earn the Energy Star seal of approval, the houses must include a variety of “tried-and-true” energy-efficient factors that contribute to the total efficiency of your home. These features make your home more comfortable, reduce their energy requirements and reduce the amount of air pollution created.

Efficient Heating and Cooling Equipment

This is one of the biggest factors in keeping your house energy efficient. Old heating systems and A.C. units often waste a massive amount of energy. They consume more power than they should to produce your heat and cooling and, if they are run inefficiently, they need to be run for longer periods of time (consuming even more energy). More energy efficient systems are better able to stabilize your house, requiring the system to be used fewer hours per day.

Effective Insulation

Why heat your house if it simply escapes to the outside? A well insulated home, including attics, floors and walls help you keep even temperatures throughout the year. As you hold a constant temperature in your home, your heating and cooling equipment will turn on less frequently, consuming less power.

High-Performance Windows

Windows with protective coatings to keep UV light out and tight seals to prevent drafts, can lower your energy bills and reduce their total cost of ownership.

Tight Construction and Docs

Energy Star rated homes demand tight construction and snug duct work. Holes and cracks in the home allow heat to escape in the cold months and heat to spill in in the summer. This places additional demands on your climate systems, wasting power. Leaks also cause greater variations in the temperature of your house, requiring systems to turn on and off more frequently. Drafts, which annoy many houseowners, are caused by such duct leaks, holes and cracks in the home.

Energy-Efficient Products

By using energy efficient products and appliances, ranging from light fixtures and light bulbs to ventilation fans and kitchen appliances, you are able to reduce your electric demand while still getting the services you need.

Third-Party Verification

Independent home energy raters are able to review the homes and certify them as Energy Star rated. They review the home, through an inspection process that to certify insulation, air tightness, the ceiling structure, materials used, appliances and more.

As you hunt to buy an energy efficient home in Commack, be sure the house that you’re looking at is Energy Star rated. All of the houses built by EmmyHomes.com, for example, our Energy Star certified. Selecting an Energy Star will reduce your costs and can deliver greater resale value in the future.