How does a home receive an EPS?
A home's EPS is based on many factors, such as the home's size, level of insulation, air leakage, heating and cooling systems, major appliances, lighting and water heating:
- Improved insulation and windows—Properly installed insulation and high-performance windows help keep heat inside during winter and outside during summer.
- Well sealed house and ducts—A house with tight construction and ducts reduces air exchange between the house, crawl space and attic. This reduces drafts and energy use, while improving indoor air quality.
- Efficient appliances and lighting—ENERGY STAR® certified appliances use up to 50 percent less energy and water than standard models. Compact fluorescent lighting uses up to 75 percent less energy than standard incandescent lighting.
- Heating, cooling and ventilation—Efficient equipment, when properly installed, provides better heating, cooling and ventilation for lower energy bills, enhanced comfort and improved indoor air quality.
- On-site energy generation—Solar panels use the sun to heat your water or convert its rays into electricity to help meet your energy needs, reducing the amount of energy you buy from your utility.
Builders voluntarily work with us to receive our third-party assessment of their home's features and construction techniques, which determines the EPS for the home.
Learn more @ Energy Trust