Southern New England Modular News

ENERGY STAR
To achieve an Energy Star rating, a Modular Home must meet guidelines for energy efficiency set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. These homes are a minimum of 15% more energy efficient than homes built to the 2004 International Residential Code (IRC) <http://www.energystar.gov/index.cfm?c=bldrs_lenders_raters.nh_IRC>. Typically they will include additional energy-saving features that can make them 20-30% more efficient than standard homes.

With homebuyers increasingly interested in green building, the energy star program is a great place to start. At Southern New England Modular Homes, Inc. we recognize that fact and have implemented standards to ensure that each home we build is Energy Star ready. The following items are done on every Modular Home we build;

· All sheathing is properly sealed to the framing.
· Bottom plates of walls are sealed to the decking and top plates to the ceiling assembly.
· All mechanical penetrations are sealed.
· Additional ventilation fans installed as needed to create proper air exchange.
· Tub/showers located on exterior walls are constructed with a continuous air and thermal barrier.
· Fireplace chases are lined to maintain the thermal and air barrier.
· Closed cell foam insulation is utilized around all windows and exterior doors.
· Airtight (AT) cans are utilized for all recessed lighting.
· Ceiling and wall insulation levels are calculated to meet minimum as per Energy Star requirements per climate zone specifications.
· We use Low-E windows.
Note: Additional insulation may be required for certain climate zones. Consult your sales representative for additional information and charges that may apply.

While we endeavor to build our homes to the Energy Star standard, it is up to you and your customer to take the proper steps to have your home Energy Star qualified. This will require a number of additional steps including a final performance inspection by a certified Home Energy Rating (HERS) inspector. In most cases we can arrange for the inspector to complete your onsite inspection and testing. Below are some of the onsite requirements that you will need to consider;

· Insure that the gap between the boxes is properly insulated and air sealed during and after the set.
· Insulate the basement walls or floor as required.
· Utilize qualified heating and cooling equipment.
· Utilize Energy Star rated appliances and hot water heater.
· Investigate available cash and tax credit incentives through you local, state or federal agencies.

Additional information can be obtained from your sales represenative or by visiting www.energystar.gov <http://www.energystar.gov>