Factory Constructed Home Builders Embrace
ENERGY STAR



ENERGY STAR is a nationally recognized, voluntary labeling program designed to identify and promote energy-efficient products, new homes and buildings to consumers and business owners across the United States. Initiated by the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in 1992, ENERGY STAR is now a joint effort of EPA and the US Department of Energy.
 
An ENERGY STAR Labeled Home is at least 15% more energy efficient than homes built to the 2006 International Energy Conservation Code.  This increased level of energy efficiency can be met using standard technologies and manufacturing practices by successfully integrating three key home components:

1. An energy efficient building envelope (effective insulation, tight construction, advanced windows).
2. Energy efficient air distribution (air-tight, well-insulated ducts).
3. Energy efficient equipment (space heating, space cooling and hot water heating).

FACTORY CONSIDERATIONS

Several factory constructed home builders have embraced ENERGY STAR and are certified.  There are at least three basic reasons why factories consider the commitment to becoming an ENERGY STAR Partner:

1. ENERGY STAR Labeled Homes have lower monthly operating costs and potentially increase the resale value of a home.
2. The efficiency measures built into an ENERGY STAR Labeled Home have residual benefits that increase customer satisfaction.
3. ENERGY STAR offers another opportunity for a factory constructed housing producer to demonstrate parity with or superiority to site-built competitors.

ENERGY STAR FACTORY CONSTRUCTED HOME FEATURES
ENERGY STAR features contribute to improved home quality and homeowner comfort, and to lower energy demand and reduced air pollution. ENERGY STAR also encourages the use of energy-efficient lighting and appliances, as well as, features designed to improve indoor air quality.
Builders work with Home Energy Raters to select from a number of features when planning and building homes. These features and the subsequent benefits to the home owner include:

1. Effective Insulation
   Properly installed, climate-appropriate insulation in floors, walls, and attics ensures even temperatures throughout the house, less energy consumption, and increased comfort.
2. High-Performance Windows
   Energy-efficient windows employ advanced technologies, such as protective coatings and improved frame assemblies, to help keep heat in during winter and out during summer. These windows also block damaging ultraviolet sunlight that can discolor carpets and furnishings.
3. Tight Construction and Ducts
   Sealing holes and cracks in the home's "envelope" and in duct systems helps reduce drafts, moisture, dust, pollen, and noise. A tightly sealed home improves comfort and indoor air quality while reducing utility bills.
4.  Efficient Heating and Cooling Equipment
   In addition to using less energy to operate, energy-efficient heating and cooling systems can be quieter, reduce indoor humidity, and improve the overall comfort of the home. Typically, energy-efficient equipment is also more durable and requires less maintenance than standard models.
5. Lighting and Appliances
   ENERGY STAR qualified homes may also be equipped with ENERGY STAR qualified products — lighting fixtures, compact fluorescent bulbs, ventilation fans, and appliances, such as refrigerators, dishwashers, and washing machines. These ENERGY STAR qualified products provide additional energy savings to the owner.
6. Third-Party Verification
   With the help of independent Home Energy Raters, ENERGY STAR builder partners choose the most appropriate energy-saving features for their homes. Additionally, raters conduct onsite testing and inspections to verify that the homes qualify as ENERGY STAR.