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ENERGY STAR qualified homes are independently
verified to be at least 30% more energy efficient
than homes built to the 1993 national Model Energy
Code or 15% more efficient than state energy code,
whichever is more rigorous.* These savings are
based on heating, cooling, and hot water energy
use and are typically achieved through a combination
of:
building envelope upgrades,
high performance windows,
controlled air infiltration,
upgraded heating and air conditioning systems,
tight duct systems and
upgraded water-heating equipment.
These 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.
Because ENERGY STAR qualified new homes offer
significant utility bill savings each and every
month, ownership gives you access to special financing
opportunities such as Energy Efficient Mortgages.
These special mortgages make it easier for borrowers
to qualify to purchase homes with specific energy-efficiency
improvements. Contact your local ENERGY STAR lender
to learn more about how buying an ENERGY STAR
qualified new home can truly pay significant dividends.
As a home buyer you can also reap the benefits
from special utility promotions designed to
encourage homeowners to reduce their energy
consumption through energy efficiency. These
promotions often include product rebates on
home products that bear the ENERGY STAR label,
reimbursement for the cost of having your home
energy rated by a certified home energy rater,
as well as other energy efficiency perks depending
on the structure of the utility's ENERGY STAR
program. The bottom line is that by installing
energy efficient features in your new home such
as a high SEER heating and cooling unit, low-e
windows, and improved insulation, you can save
money on your monthly utility bills, live in
a more comfortable home, and help keep energy
demand down.
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