Energy Star key to home purchase

Ronald Borz, who purchased a home at Astoria Homes' Silverado Place neighborhood, is one of the builder's biggest fans. His appreciation, which stems from the builder's participation in the Energy Star program, prompted him to encourage a friend to purchase a home at The Peaks, another of the builder's neighborhoods, located in the southwestern valley.

"Before I bought this home I had never even heard of Energy Star and had no idea what it was," Borz said. "But (my) sales agent explained every part of the program to me, including the home's special water heater and special windows designed to conserve energy.

"At some other neighborhoods items have to be ordered as part of an upgrade. Here, the house came with everything. The blinds, (low-e) windows, water heater and photocell porch lights were all included. It's a very well-built house and Energy Star was a big selling point," he said.

Created by the Environmental Protection Agency, the program requires that homes be at least 30 percent more energy efficient than those built to the standard code to qualify for the Energy Star label. In addition to helping preserve the environment, Energy Star reduces power costs.

Borz said he immediately noticed the difference at his home in the southeastern valley. He said his power bills are as low as $50 a month, compared with $400 to $500 at his previous home.

Nevada Energy Star Partners is a voluntary coalition of Southern Nevada home builders, developers, retailers, finance companies, energy consultants and utility companies promoting conservation.SUMMER TIP:

Nevada Power recommends setting your thermostat at 76 to 78 degrees and turning your thermostat up when sleeping or not at home.

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