ENERGY STAR is the government-backed symbol for energy efficiency. The mark identifies new homes, buildings, and more than 50 types of products that are energy efficient and offer the features, quality and performance that today's consumers expect.

A home that earns the ENERGY STAR is significantly more efficient than a standard home. By purchasing an ENERGY STAR qualified home, you can have all the features you desire in your new home, plus better performance and lower utility bills - all while helping prevent greenhouse gas emissions.

TIGHT CONSTRUCTION AND DUCTS
Advanced techniques for sealing holes and cracks in the home's "envelope" and in heating and cooling ducts help reduce drafts, moisture, dust, pollen, pests and noise. A tightly sealed home improves comfort and indoor air quality while lowering utility and maintenance.

EFFECTIVE INSULATION:
Properly installed and inspected insulation in floors, walls and attics ensures even temperatures throughout the house, while using less energy. The result is lower utility costs and a quieter, more comfortable home

EFFICIENT HEATING AND COOLING EQUIPMENT:
An energy-efficient, properly installed heating and cooling system uses less energy to operate, which reduces your utility bills. This system can also be quieter, reduce indoor humidity and improve the overall comfort of your home.

HIGH PERFORMANCE WINDOWS:
Energy-efficient windows employ advanced technologies, such as protective coatings and improved frame assemblies, to help keep heat in during the winter and out during the summer. These windows also block damaging ultraviolet sunlight that can discolor carpets and furnishings.

EFFICIENT PRODUCTS:
Your home may also be equipped with ENERGY STAR qualified products - lighting fixtures, compact flourscent bulbs, ventilation fans, and appliances - that offer additional savings.

INDEPENDENT TESTING:
While it's easy to claim that homes are energy efficient, ENERGY STAR building partners back that up with verification by an independent Home Energy Rater. The Rater conducts onsite inspections and testing to verify the performance of the energy efficiency features in your home.