Energy Star promotes efficiency

With the emergence of summer weather topping 100 degrees, homeowners are learning how simple modifications can help them conserve energy.

Nevada Energy Star Partners, a coalition of local developers, energy inspection/certification companies, mortgage lenders and other nonbuilder partners, has been created to inform home buyers of the benefits of owning an Energy Star labeled home, which is at least 30 percent more efficient than a traditional home, and provide information to help consumers conserve energy.

"If a typical Las Vegas home uses about 6,000 kilowatt-hours or about $600 a year for cooling, an Energy Star labeled home would use only about 4,000 kilowatt-hours or about $400 a year for cooling, a savings of $200," said Bob Balzar, director of Nevada Power Co.'s Take Control department.

Common features of homes with the Environmental Protection Agency's Energy Star label include tightly sealed air ducts, properly installed insulation, high-performance windows, tighter construction, and energy-efficient heating and cooling equipment.

Homeowners can take further steps to help reduce their energy costs, according to Balzar.

"Set the programmable thermostat for 78-80 degrees while at home and increase the setting to 84-86 degrees when asleep or away from home. This will help considerably with cooling costs," he said. "If you do not have a programmable thermostat, the investment of $50 to $80 for one will pay for itself in just one summer."

Balzar also recommended that homeowners use ceiling fans, which help distribute cool air and provide the sensation of cooler temperatures; make sure the area around the air-conditioning condenser is clear of debris; change air conditioning duct air filters monthly; use shades, blinds or curtains; keep the garage door closed; and run the dishwasher, clothes washer and dryer after the sun sets.

"According to the Department of Energy, heating and cooling accounts for the largest portion of a utility bill for a typical home -- 44 percent," Balzar said. "By incorporating some of these simple changes in your lifestyle, homeowners can help reduce their energy costs and preserve the environment."

Nearly 20 builders are constructing Energy Star labeled homes in the valley, with more than 4,000 labeled homes built in Southern Nevada. More than 33 percent of the Top 100 builders in the nation have joined the Energy Star for Homes Program.

The local partnership consists of American Premiere Homes, Astoria Homes, Beazer Homes, Carina Homes, Concordia Homes, Del Webb Communities, Desert Wind Homes, Distinctive Homes, Greystone Homes/Lennar, Hearthstone Homebuilders, Pardee Homes, Perma-Bilt Homes, Pulte Homes, R/S Development, Royal Construction/Spinnaker Homes and Signature Homes. A number of nonbuilder partners are also members.

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