Open the door to energy savings with EPS

There’s a common theme amongst the newly built homes you’ll see throughout the Green Tour. Each is built for efficiency and they’ve all got the EPS™ to prove it. EPS, brought to you by Energy Trust of Oregon, is an energy performance scoring system that gives you an inside look at the energy impact of a home and how much it costs to operate.

With EPS, you can easily compare homes based on efficiency and find those that offer superior comfort and savings. Qualified new homes are built to be at least 10 percent better than code, so when you buy a home with an EPS you know you’re getting a higher level of performance.

“They all have better insulation, they’re properly sealed, they have highly efficient HVAC systems and windows, so there’s improved efficiency and energy cost savings,” says Andrew Shepard, a program manager with Energy Trust. “But there’s also a comfort factor to these homes that you don’t get otherwise.”

The benefits don’t stop there. Shepard also notes that EPS qualified homes deliver health advantages as well: “Requiring fresh air systems in EPS homes creates a healthier living environment for everyone in the home.”

The Green Tour is a great opportunity to learn about the benefits of EPS homes. Here’s a closer look at some of the key attributes you can expect to find when you step inside any of the newly built homes on this year’s tour:

1. EPS homes are more energy efficient than homes that are just built to code, which sets you up for greater comfort and lower energy costs.
2. EPS allows you to review the home’s energy score and estimated utility costs so you know what to expect before you buy.
3. Every newly built EPS home includes energy-saving lighting solutions and efficient built-in appliances such as dishwashers and water heaters.
4. EPS homes feature energy-efficient heating and cooling equipment designed to lower energy bills, enhance comfort and improve indoor air quality.
5. High-performance windows are also included, helping to deflect heat in the summer and retain it in the winter, while well-sealed window frames make for a quieter, cleaner home.
6. Thorough testing ensures that important behind-the-walls details were properly installed and completed.
7. Special framing techniques allow for extra insulation which helps you pay less to stay cool in the summer and warm in the winter.
8. Tight construction comes standard and helps prevent unwanted pollutants and drafts.
9. All ductwork is sealed in order to reduce leaks and minimize potential moisture problems.
10. All EPS homes have mechanical ventilation systems that bring fresh air into the home for healthier indoor air quality.

Be sure to ask about EPS as you explore the featured tour homes, and remember to bring it up with your builder or real estate professional as your home search continues. An EPS home can save you money and energy for years to come. Pick up a Smart Homebuyer Checklist on the tour to get the conversation started, and learn more about EPS.