Energy Star is Our MINIMUM Standard
click image for a brochure including this diagram in a larger size.
A Green Home Starts with Energy Star Blue
Making
a new or existing home energy efficient can be extremely confusing. The process
is actually quite simple.
Efficiency is determined by three different things:
1. The Envelope of the Building: The envelope of the building needs to consist of a continuous air barrier and thermal barrier. The air barrier stops the flow of air from outside to inside while the thermal barrier stops the thermal transmission of energy. Any holes or breaks in these barriers can seriously affect the comfort of the building's occupants and the amount of energy the building requires. Energy Start guidelines establish minimum standards to limit this energy loss.
2. Duct Leakage: The average duct system leaks approximately 20% of it's air. This can drastically affect the overall energy usage along with causing the ductwork to become dirty (iaq issues). Energy Star requires all duct systems to leak no more than 6% to the exterior.
3. Equipment Efficiency: The more efficient the hvac equipment is the less energy it uses.
Step By Step
How do we get this all done? Before getting started on any home improvement or new construction:
- Contact an energy rater (we recommend Sherlock Homes 812.339.5828). They will inspect and test the existing home or provide a plan review of a proposed home. For an existing home this will provide you with a real energy analysis that identifies what needs to be done to make your home as efficient as it can be.
- Get all accessible duct work sealed. printable brochure
- Install High Efficiency equipment.
An energy efficient home is a more comfortable home, costs less to live in, and creates a smaller carbon footprint. It's a win/win/win proposition.
