We all know that green homebuilding is hot in new home construction. But do you know how to spot a green home?
Today’s Atlanta Journal-Constitution outlines some things to look for when choosing your new home:
Green Homes 101
• How was the site developed, and what happened to the debris from the construction?
•What about insulation? Is the attic insulation R-49? What about wall insulation and air sealing (caulking)?
•What’s the SEER (seasonal energy efficiency ratio) on the air-conditioning system? Is the unit the right size? Too big a system won’t dehumidify properly and the equipment will short cycle, wearing it out quickly.
• For the furnace, what is the AFUE (annual fuel utilization efficiency) rating?
• How is the water heated? Consider a gas tankless water heater or point-of-use models to save by not having to store heated water.
• Look for WaterSense labeled high-efficiency toilets, which use 1.3 gallons per flush or less. Toilets are the largest users of water inside a home.
• Are the appliances Energy Star? They’ll save both water and energy.
•If you’re using carpet, is it certified by the Carpet and Rug Institute’s Green Label Plus program?
• Is the landscape planned for lower maintenance and water use?
The article also suggests that green homes cost less or are breakeven to a standard home.
What does it cost?
The U.S. Green Building Council says the net cost of owning a green home is comparable to — or even less expensive than — owning a standard home. “Month to month, people who live in green homes save money by consuming 40 percent less energy and 50 percent less water than standard homes,” Roberts says.
He says now that items such as low-emissivity windows have become standard, “The cost of being green is already being built into construction. The true cost of homeownership includes not only the mortgage payment, but also utilities and maintenance. The owner of a green home pays less per month in total and owns a more valuable asset. Plus the home is more comfortable and has better indoor air quality.”
