Commonly Asked Questions:

Are all energy-efficient homes ENERGY STAR homes?
No. To ensure that your ENERGY STAR qualified home is truly energy-efficient, it is tested by an independent third-party home energy rater. We have this testing done to ensure that our homes provide buyers with added confidence that their home will perform efficiently.

How does a home earn the ENERGY STAR label?
To earn the ENERGY STAR label, a home must first be verified to be at least 30% more energy-efficient in its heating, cooling and water heating than a comparable home built to the Model Energy Code (MEC). However, depending on the rigor of a state's energy code, energy savings may vary. The ENERGY STAR label is earned only after the home's energy efficiency is verified by an accredited home energy rater.

Ratings involve the analysis of a home's construction plans and at least one on-site inspection of the home. The plan review allows the home energy rater to attain technical information such as orientation, shading area, proposed HVAC rating, insulation levels, etc. Meanwhile, the on-site inspection includes a blower door test (to test the leakiness of the house) and a duct test (to test the leakiness of the ducts). Results of these tests, along with inputs derived from the plan review, are entered into a computer simulation program to generate the home’s score and the estimated annual energy costs.

Do energy-efficient homes look different?
No, builders and developers constructing ENERGY STAR qualified homes do not have to alter their architectural designs. An ENERGY STAR qualified home can be built in whatever style the consumer prefers or is most popular in a particular geographic region.

Does an energy-efficient home cost more?
No. An ENERGY STAR qualified home actually costs less because buyers will spend less on their home's utility bill each month. These energy savings can more than offset any increase in mortgage payments needed for the improved energy features and can result in a positive monthly cash flow.

Manley Brothers Construction is proud to offer new homes that have earned the ENERGY STAR® label. ENERGY STAR® qualified new homes are at least 30% more energy-efficient than homes built to the national energy code. Even in states with more rigorous energy codes, the U.S. EPA ensures that ENERGY STAR remains the symbol for truly energy-efficient performance. Our ENERGY STAR qualified new homes are independently verified by a third party home energy rater to ensure they meet ENERGY STAR energy efficiency guidelines. These homes are better for the environment and better for you.

Benefits of owning one of our ENERGY STAR® qualified new homes include:

A Label Backed by the Government – All ENERGY STAR qualified new homes are certified to meet EPA’s strict guidelines for energy efficiency. This exemplary performance is verified by an independent third party.

Lower Utility Costs – Compared with standard homes, ENERGY STAR qualified new homes use substantially less energy for heating, cooling, and hot water heating. Homeowners can expect to save about $200-$400 annually on their utility bills.

More Comfortable/Quieter Homes – The energy-efficient features of ENERGY STAR qualified new homes keep out excessive heat, cold, and noise, and ensure consistent temperatures between and across rooms—making these homes more comfortable to live in.

Helping to Create a Better Future – By purchasing an ENERGY STAR qualified new home, you are joining millions of consumers who have changed to ENERGY STAR, helping our nation reduce our energy needs and building a cleaner environment for the future.

Features of our ENERGY STAR® qualified new homes include:

Increased Insulation – Improved and effective use of insulation helps achieve even temperatures throughout the house while using less energy. The result is lower utility costs and a quieter, more comfortable home.

High-performance Windows – High-performance windows help keep heat in during winter and out during summer. They also block damaging ultraviolet sunlight that can discolor carpets and furniture.

Tight Construction and Tight Ducts – Tight ducts and tight construction help eliminate drafts, moisture, dust, pests, and pollen. This improves comfort and the quality of indoor air, while lowering maintenance costs.

Energy-efficient Heating and Cooling Equipment – More efficient and properly installed heating and cooling systems use less energy, which reduces utility bills. These systems also turn on and off less frequently, removing more humidity and providing better comfort.

For more information about ENERGY STAR contact a Manley Brothers Construction representative or go to their website at www.energystar.gov