Architects laud benefits of Energy Star

As architects, Barry and Serena Ellison knew the importance of buying an Energy Star-rated home.

Before purchasing their home, the landscape and building designers had energy inspectors certify the house. It received a home energy rating system score of 86.

During the few months they have lived in the house, the Ellisons have noticed a drop in their power bills.

"Our bills have been one-half to one-third lower since moving into our Energy Star home. Our power bill last month was about $65," Barry Ellison said.

Their home has low-e windows, blown insulation with a R-30 rating, wall insulation rated at R-13, sealed ducts, programmable thermostats, and an energy-efficient washer and dryer.

"My biggest selling point for buying an Energy Star home was resale value. I would highly recommend Energy Star to anyone because it will definitely save them money in the long run," he said.

Builders who are members of Nevada Energy Star Partners are: American Premiere Homes, Amstar Homes, Astoria Homes, Beazer Homes, Centex dba Real Homes, Concordia Homes, Del Webb Corp., Desert Wind Homes, Distinctive Homes, Greystone Homes, Hearthstone Homebuilders, KB Home, Nevada Home Group, Pardee Homes, Perma-Bilt Homes, Pulte Homes, Spinnaker Homes, Signature Homes, and Westmark Homes.

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