As superior energy performance becomes standard in new home construction, you’ll likely see other energy efficiency certifications in addition to EPS during your home search. Each of the popular certifications listed below indicates top quality, and they can all work in tandem with EPS. So when you buy or build an EPS rated home, there’s plenty of reason to be confident in how it will perform.
ENERGY STAR rated homes achieve a high level of efficiency with energy-saving components such as high-performance windows, heating and cooling equipment, lighting, appliances and insulation. To receive ENERGY STAR certification, homes must be built more efficient than code requirements and are verified by a third-party Home Energy Rater.
Earth Advantage adds sustainability features and building processes to ENERGY STAR guidelines to produce homes that use natural resources more responsibly. Earth Advantage New Homes awards three levels of certification—silver, gold, or platinum—based on the building’s score in five categories: energy efficiency, healthy indoor air quality, resource efficiency, environmental responsibility and water conservation.
LEED is an internationally recognized green building certification program operated by the U.S. Green Building Council. LEED for Homes aims to increase energy and water efficiency, reduce carbon emissions, thoughtfully use natural resources and improve indoor environmental quality.
The LEED rating system measures a home’s performance in eight categories: site selection, water efficiency, materials and resources, energy and atmosphere, location and linkages, awareness and education and finally, innovation. A home’s combined score, verified by a third-party inspector, will determine the level of LEED certification—certified, silver, gold or platinum.