Amidst the growing trend of embracing sustainability, it's rare to find companies who can articulate a clear definition of what 'being green' truly entails. One way to achieve this is by investing in an ENERGY STAR-certified home.
Energy Star led by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), designed to help individuals and businesses save energy while reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Below, we explore five key benefits of an ENERGY STAR home and why it’s a smart choice for homeowners looking to balance sustainability, savings, and comfort.
ENERGY STAR homes are designed with strict energy efficiency standards in mind. These homes are built with better insulation, energy-efficient windows, and high-performance heating and cooling systems. In fact, ENERGY STAR-certified homes are estimated to be 10-20% more energy-efficient than non-certified homes.
For homeowners, this translates into lower utility bills and long-term savings. Over time, the energy savings from a certified ENERGY STAR home can amount to thousands of dollars, making it a wise investment for budget-conscious families.
ENERGY STAR homes focus on maintaining consistent indoor temperatures, reducing drafts, and managing humidity more effectively than conventional homes. Upgrading the amount of insulation around the entire building envelope, high-performance triple-pane windows, and balanced ventilation ensure that indoor spaces remain comfortable year-round, regardless of outdoor weather conditions. For the homeowners, this means a more enjoyable living environment where the air feels fresh, comfortable, and stable–no matter the season.
Indoor air quality is crucial for health and wellness. These homes are designed to reduce pollutants, allergens, and humidity levels indoors through high-quality air filters, advanced ventilation systems, and low-emission building materials. By promoting better air circulation and using materials that emit fewer chemicals, ENERGY STAR homes provide a cleaner, healthier environment.
Opting to build an ENERGY STAR-certified home is another step you can take to reduce your environmental impact. By using less energy and requiring fewer natural resources, these homes contribute to lower greenhouse gas emissions and a reduced carbon footprint. When choosing to build or buy an ENERGY STAR certified home, the overall effect can be substantial, helping to mitigate climate change and preserve resources for future generations.
The growing demand for sustainable, energy-efficient homes, ENERGY STAR-certified homes have a higher resale value than conventional homes. Buyers are interested in properties that offer cost savings and environmental benefits, making ENERGY STAR certification a highly desirable feature. For homeowners considering selling their property in the future, this certification can attract environmentally-conscious buyers and potentially yield a higher return on investment.
At Sustainable 9, we ensure every home meets rigorous standards for ENERGY STAR certification, as well as EPA Indoor airPLUS and DOE Zero Energy Ready Home certifications, delivering high-performance homes that prioritize your well-being and sustainability goals.
