Energy Star

ENERGY STAR is a nationally recognized, voluntary program designed to identify and promote energy-efficient product, new homes, and buildings to consumers and businesses across the United States. Initiated by the EPA in 1992, ENERGY STAR is now a joint effort of the EPA and the US Department of Energy, with each agency taking responsibility for promoting the ENERGY STAR label in particular product categories. EPA is responsible for determining energy efficiency guidelines for ENERGY STAR qualified homes.

NTA, Inc. believes businesses benefit financially by continually improving their management of energy resources, and the environment benefits from reduced levels of related pollution. We are proud to offer services that can assist businesses who have committed to the goals of ENERGY STAR.

Benefits of owning an ENERGY STAR qualified new home 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 NTA, Inc., an independent third party inspection agency

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 providing an ENERGY STAR qualified new home, you as a home builder are helping our nation reduce energy needs and building a cleaner environment for the future.

Features of ENERGY STAR qualified new homes include:

• Effective Insulation — Properly installed insulation that meets or exceeds national code requirements 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 — Advanced window coatings 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 — Attention to detail by sealing all holes, cracks, and seams in ducts and construction assemblies helps 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 sized 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.

Learn more about ENERGY STAR qualified new homes at http://www.energystar.gov/.

How does NTA work with contractors:

One of our Certified Home Energy Rating Specialists (HERS Rater) will perform an inspection of insulation, building envelope air tightness and duct work before interior coverings are installed. The HERS Rater will perform a final inspection, an air infiltration and duct leakage test once the home has been completed. Labeling & Certification Approval Audits performed by NTA, Inc. include, but are not limited to, the following:

The Energy Star Approval Test for:

• Whole House Air Leakage Testing Under Specified Air Pressure Difference
• Total Duct Air Leakage Testing Under Specified Air Pressure Difference
• Duct Air Leakage (to the Outside)
• Tesing Under Specified Air Pressure Difference
• Duct/House Leakage Diagnostics and Troubleshooting

ENERGY STAR® : Labeling Program for Manufactured Housing
ENERGY STAR® : Home Energy Rating System (HERS) Certification for Site-Built and Modular Residential Structures