Energy Star label proves energy efficiency

Homes that carry the Energy Star label are truly energy efficient, according to government agencies. These homes have proven to be at least 30 percent more efficient than the national Model Energy Code.

Standing behind this label are the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the U.S. Department of Energy.

Energy Star homes are built with tighter construction, improved insulation, advanced windows, and high-efficiency heating and cooling equipment.

In locations such as Las Vegas, officials say, home attics can reach temperatures as high as 170 degrees, yet homeowners want even cooling throughout their homes. Through the Energy Star program, a high-efficiency heating and cooling system, advanced insulation, and tightly sealed air ducts mean that all rooms and all floors are evenly cooled and heated year-round, and less energy is used to do it. Better insulation and tighter ducts along with high-performance windows also mean quieter homes.

The experts say more efficient use of energy means a cleaner environment. Most energy used to power homes comes from the burning of fossil fuels, which contributes to urban smog, acid rain, and global climate change. The EPA expects the annual pollution prevention from Energy Star homes built during the next 20 years to be equivalent to eliminating the emissions from half a million cars.

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