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HERS Rating for Energy Star Labeled Homes - for home buildersNew energy codes have been instituted throughout Long Island and are on the horizon for New York City. These codes require that new houses qualify as Energy Star Labeled Homes and, with respect to construction techniques, go above and beyond what many builders have been used to for years. Rather than view this as a hardship imposed upon builders, it should be viewed as an opportunity to provide real value to home buyers and a front-line approach to reducing the energy demands of our country. Energy Star Labeled Homes have improvements in the following areas: Effective Insulation
Fiberglass batt insulation is installed in practically every house built since 1950. It is also one of the most misunderstood and mis-installed products. To attain its labeled R-Value, it must be installed touching all six sides of the cavity (front, back, sides, top and bottom), with no compression (for example: no stapling to sides of studs), and not subject to wind-washing. Most fiberglass is not installed this way and typically as a result has its R-Value compromised to as little as 50% or less. Properly installed and inspected insulation in floors, walls, and attics ensures even temperatures throughout the house, reduced energy use, and increased comfort. High-Performance Windows
Energy-efficient windows use advanced technologies, such as low emission coatings and improved frames, to help keep heat in during winter and out during summer. These windows also block damaging UV sunlight that can discolor carpets and furnishings. Tight Construction and Ducts
Studies have shown that homeowners lose up to 30% of energy they purchase through leaky ducts. Even more energy is lost through building shell leakage. Sealing holes and cracks in the building envelope and in heating/cooling ducts helps reduce drafts, moisture, pollutants, and noise. A tightly sealed home improves comfort and indoor air quality while reducing utility and maintenance. Mechanical ventilation can be introduced to bring a controlled amount of fresh air into a house and exhaust stale air. Efficient Heating/Cooling Equipment
Many HVAC installers oversize cooling equipment to eliminate callbacks. However this can bring several drawbacks from a homeowner perspective. In addition to using less energy to operate, energy-efficient heating and cooling systems can be quieter, reduce indoor humidity, and improve the overall comfort of the home. When properly installed into a tightly sealed home, this equipment won't have to work so hard to heat and cool the home. Efficient Appliances and Lighting
Energy Star qualified homes are also equipped with Energy Star labeled products — lighting fixtures, compact fluorescent bulbs, ventilation fans, and appliances, such as refrigerators, dishwashers, and washing machines. Third-Party Verification
New house construction now requires a new player in the builder's team -- the HERS (Home Energy Rating System) rater. The HERS rater will independently verify that the house meets the new energy standards, and the process begins with a plans review to determine what, if any, areas in the plans need improvements. With the help of independent Home Energy Raters, Energy Star builders choose the most appropriate energy-saving features for their homes. Additionally, raters conduct on-site testing and inspections to verify the energy efficiency measures, as well as insulation, air tightness, and duct sealing details.
The fees that are involved with this process will be more than offset by energy savings over the life of the home as well as incentives and rebates available through LIPA, New York State, and NYSERDA. Contact our office for pricing and other details. Aberdeen Building Consulting ---- 877-492-9800 |
