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By David McClure

We know the efficiency of our vehicle. We’ve walked new car lots and found two things on window stickers – price and miles per gallon. We would all be willing to pay a little more for a vehicle if we knew we could get better gas mileage.

What about the efficiency of new homes? When we shop for homes all we see is price – right? Well, that is changing. There is a measure of home energy efficiency and it is called the Home Efficiency Rating System (HERS). Just like miles per gallon will tell you how efficient your car is, HERS tells you how efficient your home is. Unlike miles per gallon, a low HERS rating is better than a high rating. A rating of 100 means the home has about the same efficiency as a reference home while a rating below 85 may get your home rated as Energy Star qualified. Yes – just like appliances you entire home can receive a certification that it is Energy Star qualified!

How do you determine the HERS rating for your home? Each home is different. To determine the rating you need the help of a HERS rater. HERS raters are certified technicians that analyze your home by checking insulation, dimensions, windows, heating and air conditioning systems, air ducts, hot water heaters, and other items. All this information is entered into an approved computer software program and the efficiency of the home is determined.

Knowing the efficiency of the home helps the builder because they can make sure the air conditioning and heating systems are sized properly. Builders can even receive $2,000 tax credits based upon the rating. Home owner’s can obtain an Energy Star qualification. This qualification proves to any potential buyer that the home was built to be energy efficient – adding to the market value of the home.

Homes with low HERS ratings are more affordable to own and reduce pollution since they consume less energy than standard homes. It may be surprising, but our homes pollute more than our vehicles. In addition to price, shouldn’t home efficiency be part of your buying decision? 

Planning to build? Are you interested in an energy efficient home with a HERS rating to prove it? Foam Engineers can help by insulating, sealing, and rating your new home. Call 888.214.2468 or visit us at www.foamengineersllc.com.

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