Northwest ENERGY STAR® Homes FAQs
General Information
Benefits
- My builder says his homes are energy efficient. Why do I need the ENERGY STAR?
- Why don't more contractors build to ENERGY STAR standards?
- Isn't it better to let your house “breathe” than to build it “too tight?”
- Does an ENERGY STAR home help prevent moisture problems that can lead to mold issues?
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General Information
1. What is an ENERGY STAR home?
You've probably heard of ENERGY STAR appliances and other products. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency administers the ENERGY STAR brand, certifying ENERGY STAR homes as at least 15 percent more efficient than local building codes.
2. Is this a new program?
Since 1999, the Idaho ENERGY STAR Homes program partners have developed standards and certified ENERGY STAR homes. Idaho Power supports these efforts through marketing, training and builder incentives for ENERGY STAR homes.
3. Why is Idaho Power getting involved?
Idaho Power’s emphasis on energy efficiency and renewable resources helps reduce our carbon footprint and mitigate environmental impacts. We provide opportunities and information, assisting consumers in the shared goal of reducing the demand for energy. Northwest ENERGY STAR Homes is a regional program in Idaho, Montana, Washington and Oregon designed to reduce peak demand for power in the Northwest now and in the future.
Benefits
1. My builder says his homes are energy efficient. Why do I need the ENERGY STAR?
The ENERGY STAR is your assurance that a third party inspected the new home and certified that proper materials were used and correct procedures were followed. Energy efficiency is not an automatic feature of a new home. A builder must understand the “house as a system” approach to energy efficient building, thus providing a cost effective, high performance home.
Experienced ENERGY STAR builders often provide the best value. They've refined their processes and use subcontractors familiar with ENERGY STAR requirements. Use our ENERGY STAR Homebuilder List to find experienced builders in your area.
2. Why don't more contractors build to ENERGY STAR standards?
Demand for Energy Star homes is increasing over the past decade. Contractors respond to customer's requests and build accordingly.
An ENERGY STAR investment pays off almost immediately with lower utility bills. That value passes on to future homeowners. As more homebuyers learn about the value of ENERGY STAR homes, more homebuilders will build them.
3.Isn't it better to let your house “breathe” than to build it “too tight?”
ENERGY STAR homes receive fresh air through a mechanical ventilation system. Concerns about houses being built “too tight” stem from homes built tightly “by accident” without mechanical ventilation. Leaky houses do not provide the proper level of ventilation in the right places at the right times.
Through extensive research and testing, building scientists determined the best strategy for maximizing occupant health and comfort in homes. Just “build tight and ventilate right.” With a simple inexpensive ventilation system, a home has a supply of fresh air.
4. Does an ENERGY STAR home help prevent moisture problems that can lead to mold issues?
Yes. ENERGY STAR homes have the following:
- Properly sealed air ducts, helping prevent the spread of mold spores from crawl spaces into the home.
- Sealed plumbing and electrical penetrations in floors and walls, preventing spread of contaminants such as mold into the home.
- Balanced heating and cooling system airflows, minimizing pressure in rooms that can push indoor moisture into walls and create potential mold problems.
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1. How much does it cost to build an ENERGY STAR home?
Typically, the upgrades needed to meet Energy Star home standards are in the range of one to three percent higher than code levels.
We estimate that it costs approximately $2,500 to $4,500 to update energy saving features in a new home. Adding $4,500 to an existing 30-year, $160,000 mortgage at seven percent results in an additional monthly payment of $30, including taxes and insurance.
Monthly energy savings from these measures result in energy bill estimated savings of $40 to $50 per month. The homeowner enjoys net savings from the first month of ownership throughout the life of the home.
2. How do I know if a home is labeled ENERGY STAR?
Look for the ENERGY STAR label prominently displayed on the electrical breaker box. Ask your builder for the ENERGY STAR labeled certificate.
For more information visit the following Web pages:
