ENERGY STAR is a government-backed symbol designating energy efficiency. The EPA (Environmental Program Agency) verifies, independently tests and labels homes as ENERGY STAR after meeting strict guidelines. The EPA offers two labels so far ENERGY STAR and ENERGY STAR Indoor Air Package. ENERGY STAR built homes are at least 15% more energy efficient than homes built to the 2004 standard building codes.
 

Here are some typical features of an ENERGY STAR home:

Effective Insulation
Climate-appropriate insulation in attics, walls and floors. If properly installed, this insulation regulates temperatures throughout the house and lowering energy consumption.

High Performance Windows
Energy efficient windows have protective coatings, improved frame assemblies, which help keep the house warm during the winter and cool during the summer; and they block damaging UV sunlight.

Effective Air Distribution
Sealing holes and cracks and having tight construction and ducts - ducts installed with minimum air leakage and also insulated. The system should help decrease drafts, moisture, dust, pollen and noise, which can reduce utility bills and increase indoor air quality.

Efficient heating and Cooling
ENERGY STAR qualified heating and cooling equipment are more energy efficient and can be less noisy, produce lower indoor humidity, and are usually more durable and require less maintenance than standard equipment. Many local energy companies offer rebates or tax deductions for using ENERGY STAR labeled equipment or appliances.

Appliances and Lighting
Using ENERGY STAR products and appliances such as compact fluorescent bulbs, lighting fixtures, ventilation fans, refrigerators, dishwashers and washer machines offer additional energy savings.
 

According to the EPA, ENERGY STAR homeowners can usually save about $200-$400 per year on their utility bills.  For even more efficiency, buyers can choose a home with the ENERGY STAR Indoor Air Package label, which is a new specification developed by the EPA to improve indoor air quality. These homes are first qualified as ENERGY STAR and then they go on to incorporate more than 60 additional green design and building features that control moisture, chemical exposure, radon, pests, ventilation and filtration. Incorporating these features helps protect homes from mold, chemicals, gasses and other pollutants. (www.energystar.gov)

In order to complete the green home building process, homebuyers can use ENERGY STAR homes and the ENERGY STAR Indoor Air Package together with other water efficient products, sustainable land development practices, renewable energy technologies, waste reduction, and recycling.