of energy star homes
Energy Star homes are residential homes that have undergone improvements and renovations to increase their energy efficiency These improvements are usually done to reduce the home’s overall energy consumption and help the owners save money in the long run To receive the Energy Star label, a home must meet certain criteria set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The criteria might be improvement of air-sealing, insulation, HVAC system or other components of a home's energy use.
The five best examples of Energy Star homes include:
1. Eco-Green Passive Solar Home: This is a zero-energy home in California, which features photovoltaic solar panels, as well as an extensive insulation system and air-sealing. It incorporates energy-efficient technologies like triple-pane windows, super-efficient appliances, LED lighting and a rainwater harvesting system.
2. Energy Positive Home: This home in Michigan is the first Net Positive Energy home in the US, meaning that it produces more energy than it consumes. It is powered by a 15-kilowatt photovoltaic array, and has both a geothermal system and a heat pump. The home also has a super-efficient refrigerator and air conditioner, as well as triple-pane windows and efficient lighting.
3. Vibrant Eco-Friendly Home: This home in North Carolina features a solar hot water system, photovoltaic array, geothermal heating and cooling, and a solar attic fan. It also includes an energy-efficient refrigerator and air conditioner, efficient lighting, and an advanced water-conservation system.
4. Eco-Smart Home: This home in New York features a combined heat and power (CHP) system, which produces both heat and electricity for the home. It also includes a high-efficiency water heater, heat recovery ventilators, and triple-pane, argon-filled windows.
5. Bioenergy Home: This home in Washington is powered by a combined heat, power, and biofuel system that relies on algae, which is grown in an on-site pond. The home also features efficient heating and cooling systems, an abundant amount of solar panels, and an energy-efficient refrigerator and air conditioner.
Through the use of energy-efficient technologies and design principles, these five homes have achieved Energy Star certification and are helping to lead the way in energy efficiency and sustainability. They are not only saving energy and money, but also reducing their carbon footprints and protecting the environment.