Oct 23 2005
A common myth about factory-built homes is that they are poorly constructed with thin insulation, resulting in outrageous costs to keep the temperature in the home comfortable. This is far from true. The insulation levels in factory-built homes are similar, often
even better than those in site-built homes.
Many factory-built homes come with the ENERGY STAR certification. ENERGY STAR is a nationally recognized, voluntary labeling program designed to identify and promote energy-efficient products, new homes and buildings to consumers and business owners across the U.S. Both manufactured home builders and modular home builders can qualify their homes for this designation.
Initiated by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in 1992, ENERGY STAR is now a joint effort of EPA and the U.S. Department of Energy.
An ENERGY STAR labeled home is at least 30 percent more energy efficient in its heating, cooling and water heating than a comparable home built to the 1993 Model Energy Code (MEC). This increased level of energy efficiency can be met using standard technologies and manufacturing practices by successfully integrating three key home components:
- An energy efficient building envelope (effective insulation, tight construction, advanced windows)
- Energy efficient air distribution (air-tight, well-insulated ducts)
- Energy efficient equipment (space heating, space cooling and hot water heating)
According to the EPA, because ENERGY STAR certified new homes offer significant utility bill savings each and every month, ownership gives you access to special financing opportunities such as energy-efficient mortgages. These special mortgages make it easier for borrowers to qualify to purchase homes with specific energy-efficiency improvements.
An ENERGY STAR certification can also increase the value of your home. A growing segment of the population places a higher value on homes that are energy-efficient. An energy-efficient factory-built home will keep you and your family comfortable during those extreme Minnesota seasons. Ask your professional home retailer about energy-efficient home packages.
As a homebuyer, you can also reap the benefits from special utility promotions designed to encourage homeowners to reduce their energy consumption through energy efficiency. To learn more about today's factory-built homes, visit a Minnesota Manufactured Housing Association (MMHA) member sales center, or check out the industry Web site http://www.mnmfghome.org for locations of model homes.