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WHY SHOULD I BUY OR BUILD AN ENERGY STAR HOME?
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Q: Why should I build or buy an ENERGY STAR® Home?
A: 1. Homes built in the Wisconsin ENERGY STAR Homes Program provide you the peace of mind that they are better built, and it is proven through third party verification and testing.
2. Certified Wisconsin ENERGY STAR Homes are more comfortable, safe and durable. They are also estimated to be 25 percent more energy efficient than those built to Wisconsin Uniform Dwelling Code.
Q: What are some energy saving features of an ENERGY STAR Home?
A: 1. Energy efficient windows and window placement - Windows typically cover 10-25% of the exterior walls of new homes, and poorly insulated or installed windows can contribute significantly to heating and cooling costs. Installation of ENERGY STAR windows with proper attention to sealing around the windows can greatly reduce air leakage that causes rooms to gain or lose excessive heat. Shading south and west facing windows in the summer can further reduce heat gain. These measures reduce energy consumption associated with heating and cooling.
2.HVAC, insulation, and sealing - Ongoing energy use is probably the single greatest environmental impact of a home. On average, half of a household's energy budget is dedicated to heating and cooling. ENERGY STAR labeled air conditioners and furnaces are more efficient than standard HVAC components. Programmable thermostats also help homeowners maximize heating and cooling efficiency while minimizing the expense of utility bills. Ceiling fans help circulate heated and conditioned air while locating ducts in interior walls reduces the amount of heated or cooled air lost. Thorough insulation and sealing techniques can also significantly reduce heating and cooling costs.
A: 1. Homes built in the Wisconsin ENERGY STAR Homes Program provide you the peace of mind that they are better built, and it is proven through third party verification and testing.
2. Certified Wisconsin ENERGY STAR Homes are more comfortable, safe and durable. They are also estimated to be 25 percent more energy efficient than those built to Wisconsin Uniform Dwelling Code.
Q: What are some energy saving features of an ENERGY STAR Home?
A: 1. Energy efficient windows and window placement - Windows typically cover 10-25% of the exterior walls of new homes, and poorly insulated or installed windows can contribute significantly to heating and cooling costs. Installation of ENERGY STAR windows with proper attention to sealing around the windows can greatly reduce air leakage that causes rooms to gain or lose excessive heat. Shading south and west facing windows in the summer can further reduce heat gain. These measures reduce energy consumption associated with heating and cooling.
2.HVAC, insulation, and sealing - Ongoing energy use is probably the single greatest environmental impact of a home. On average, half of a household's energy budget is dedicated to heating and cooling. ENERGY STAR labeled air conditioners and furnaces are more efficient than standard HVAC components. Programmable thermostats also help homeowners maximize heating and cooling efficiency while minimizing the expense of utility bills. Ceiling fans help circulate heated and conditioned air while locating ducts in interior walls reduces the amount of heated or cooled air lost. Thorough insulation and sealing techniques can also significantly reduce heating and cooling costs.
