Local residents herald benefits of owning Energy Star home

For Jack and Kathy Smith, being comfortable is the most important of the many benefits of owning an Energy Star-rated home.

"The idea of being more comfortable in a larger home without a huge increase in my utility bills is really quite awesome," Jack Smith said.

The couple's Energy Star home, located in the confines of Celebrate Homes' Lone Mountain neighborhood, measures more than 600 square feet larger than their previous residence.

They learned about the benefits of the Environmental Protection Agency's energy-efficiency program when buying their new home.

"Despite what we were told, I was still shocked when we received our first power bill. Buying an Energy Star home is the best move we could have made," he said.

To qualify for the Energy Star rating, homes must be constructed to use at least 30 percent less energy. This is achieved through high-performance, low-e windows to reduce the amount of ultraviolet rays and heat entering the home and improved insulation to maintain even temperatures, among other methods.

"With the low-e windows, I am able to enjoy the sun's natural light without heating up my home," Kathy Smith pointed out.

The homeowners said they also are impressed by the lack of outside noise within their home.

"The improved insulation and the high-grade windows allow us to enjoy living in the city without hearing all the traffic and noise," Jack Smith said.

Equally delighted by the program's results, the homeowners also purchased an Energy Star-rated washer and refrigerator.

The builder is a member of Nevada Energy Star Partners, a coalition of Southern Nevada home builders, developers, retailers, finance companies, energy consultants and utility companies promoting energy conservation.

For more information, visit www.reviewjournal.com/real estate and click on the Energy Star link.

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