Saving money while reducing your carbon footprint can be challenging. Using less energy at home is an easy way to cut utility costs and enjoy the benefits of long-term savings, but how do you conserve energy without compromising your family’s comfort? At Segal and Morel, we build green, Energy Star® certified homes that enable you to live in style and comfort while saving energy and being kind to the environment. Our building professionals share some advantages of these new homes that may surprise you.
What Is an Energy Star ® Certified Home?
Energy Star® certified homes are tested and verified by third-party inspectors to meet rigorous standards set by the Environmental Protection Agency. Typically, these houses are at least 20-30% more energy-efficient than a standard home and are designed for better comfort, durability, and reduced utility and maintenance costs. All new homes in planned communities such as Riverview Estates West have been Energy Star® certified since 2001, and Green Certified by the NAHB Research Center since 2010. These quality luxury homes help you save money while increasing the comfort of your home and protecting the environment.
Better Insulation and Sealing
Nearly 50% of energy consumption in standard homes goes to heating and cooling but keeping your family comfortable doesn’t have to break the bank. Energy Star® certified homes use high R-Value insulation, caulking, and sealing, and low-E windows, which provide exceptional insulation and comfort. Supply and return ductwork is also well insulated and sealed. Enhanced foundation waterproofing and a properly insulated attic improve your home’s building “envelope” and retain heat in the winter and cool air in the summer.
Energy-Efficient Appliances and HVAC Systems
Energy Star® appliances such as washers, dryers, dishwashers, and tankless water heaters help cut costs by saving not only energy, but water. High-efficiency heating and air conditioning also result in reduced heating and cooling costs while making your home a comfortable place you’ll want to be. Heat recovery ventilator systems transfer warm or cold stale exhaust air to fresh intake air, improving indoor air quality and using less energy.
Water-Saving Fixtures and Systems
Low flow toilets, faucets, and showerheads and rainwater collection systems, help you save on water bills as well. Landscaping that features native plants that thrive without excessive watering and chemical fertilizers help slash the amount you’ll pay for lawn care.
Quality Materials and Building Methods
High-quality, environmentally conscious building materials and methods require less maintenance and last longer. Home builders construct green, Energy Star® compliant houses with materials such as engineered wood products that use renewable wood species. Carpet, tile, concrete, and other materials may contain recycled content that performs just as well or better than non-recycled products. Low-VOC paints and finishes, enhance indoor air quality and stand the test of time, saving you money in the long run.
Special Mortgages
Buying an Energy Star® certified home often provides access to national mortgage programs that offer incentives such as lower interest rates, discounts on closing costs, reduced loan origination fees, and cash back after closing. Interest and fees can add up quickly, so these programs can save you thousands of dollars when purchasing a new home.
Higher Resale Value
Protecting the environment is at the forefront of many homebuyers’ minds these days. Lower utility bills and the energy-efficient, cost-saving features found in green homes boost their resale value, which means more money in your pocket when it comes time to sell.
Contact Us to Learn More About Energy Star® Green Certified Homes
If you’re interested in saving money while increasing the comfort of your home and protecting the environment, Segal & Morel offers luxury energy-efficient homes backed by more than 50 years of building experience in Pennsylvania and New Jersey. Contact us online or call our office in Easton, PA, at 610-923-8422 to learn more.
