The Esposito family and The Henlopen Homes build team celebrate the certification of their ENERGY STAR home!

Energy Star ratings are now available as an extraordinary option through Henlopen Homes! To earn the ENERGY STAR, a home must meet guidelines for energy efficiency set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

ENERGY STAR homes are at least 15% more energy efficient than homes built to the 2004 International Residential Code (IRC), and include additional energy-saving features that typically make them 20–30% more efficient than standard homes. With homebuyers increasingly interested in green building, energy efficiency is the place to start. That's because the energy used in homes often comes from the burning of fossil fuels at power plants, which contributes to smog, acid rain, and risks of global warming. So, the less energy used, the less air pollution generated. ENERGY STAR qualified homes can include a variety of 'tried-and-true' energy-efficient features that contribute to improved home quality and homeowner comfort, and to lower energy demand and reduced air pollution.

1. Effective Insulation

Properly installed and inspected insulation in floors, walls, and attics ensures even temperatures throughout the house, reduced energy use, and increased comfort.

Learn more about Properly Installed Insulation (149KB).

2. High-Performance Windows

Energy-efficient windows employ advanced technologies, such as protective coatings and improved frames, to help keep heat in during winter and out during summer. These windows also block damaging ultraviolet sunlight that can discolor carpets and furnishings.

Learn more about Qualified Windows (212KB).

3. Tight Construction and Ducts

Sealing holes and cracks in the home's "envelope" and in heating and cooling duct systems helps reduce drafts, moisture, dust, pollen, and noise. A tightly sealed home improves comfort and indoor air quality while reducing utility and maintenance.

Learn more about Efficient Duct Systems (163KB).

4. Efficient Heating and Cooling Equipment

In addition to using less energy to operate, energy-efficient heating and cooling systems can be quieter, reduce indoor humidity, and improve the overall comfort of the home. When properly installed into a tightly sealed home, this equipment won't have to work so hard to heat and cool the home.

Qualified Heating Equipment (142KB)

Qualified Cooling Equipment (178KB)

Mechanical Ventilation (140KB)

5. Efficient Products

ENERGY STAR qualified homes may also be equipped with ENERGY STAR qualified products — lighting fixtures, compact fluorescent bulbs, ventilation fans, and appliances, such as refrigerators, dishwashers, and washing machines.

Learn more about ENERGY STAR qualified products:

Qualified Appliances (153KB)

Qualified Lighting (170KB)

Advanced Lighting Package (181KB)

High Efficiency Water Heaters (177KB)

6. Third-Party Verification

With the help of independent Home Energy Raters, ENERGY STAR builder partners choose the most appropriate energy-saving features for their homes. Additionally, raters conduct onsite testing and inspections to verify the energy efficiency measures, as well as insulation, air tightness, and duct sealing details.

Learn more about Independent Inspection and Testing (182KB). 

Tax Credits for ENERGY STAR Qualified Manufactured Homes

Beginning in 2006, producers of manufactured homes will be eligible for federal tax credits for homes that are energy efficient. This includes manufactured homes that qualify for the ENERGY STAR label. These tax credits are part of the Energy Policy Act of 2005. Qualifying rules have been released by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). For information on the qualifying rules visit:  http://www.energytaxincentives.org/

Call or stop by our office to see what we can design for you.

Henlopen Homes Model and Sales Office

Lewes-Georgetown Highway, Lewes Delaware

Directions: From Five Points in Lewes take Rt. 9 (Lewes-Georgetown Highway) four miles west to Joseph's Road. Model faces the highway on the left.

P.O. Box 245, Harbeson DE. 19951

302.684.0860