The certfication you will see most often for an energy efficient home is Energy Star New Homes.

We all are familiar with the name Energy Star because we all look for the logo when we buy appliances..Actually there are products in more than 60 categories that are eligible for the  ENERGY STAR label. Used properly they use less energy, save money, and help protect the environment.

Energy Star is a government owned third party organization. To earn the ENERGY STAR certificate, a home must meet strict guidelines for energy efficiency set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. These homes are at least 15% more energy efficient than homes built to the 2004 International Residential Code (IRC) and include additional energy-saving features that typically make them 20-30% more efficient than standard homes.

Specific areas that the Energy Star program concentrates on are: Effective insulation, High-performance windows, tight construction of the building envelope and well-sealed ducts, Efficient heating and cooling equipment and energy efficient products.

The final step to successfully building an Energy Star-rated  house is that it must pass an inspection by an independent home energy rater to meet the EPA’s guidelines for energy efficiency. When the home passes the final inspection, it is given the gold star brand found on Energy Star appliances. This independent third party verification happens during the building process and after it is done. 

These are two links to help you identify EnergyStar Builders. You will also be able see how many qualifying homes they have built…or if they are a new partner.

 Energystar Builders in Lower Delaware

Energystar Builders in Dover