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ENERGY STAR is the Government backed symbol for energy efficiency. The ENERGY STAR label is awarded to homes which operate 30% more efficiently than a standard home. Building modular homes to the ENERGY STAR standard helps to save the earth and save money. In a number of utility territories, a modular home project may qualify for free ENERGY STAR certification and home performance testing, as well as an incentive for reaching the ENERGY STAR certification. The “Energy Star Certification” gives an opportunity for both home builders and potential modular home customers to create an environmentally friendly home.

The ENERGY STAR Home Program provides an overall rating of energy efficiency after the home has been completed. A new home must undergo inspection and testing by a third-party rating agency. One should contact the local ENERGY STAR office early in the planning stage to see if there are any regional requirements which must be met. For more information on the nearest ENERGY STAR office, people can visit www.energystar.gov or call 1-888-STAR-YES.

General Design Considerations For Green Modular Homes

Following is a list of general guidelines to consider during modular home construction to meet ENERGY STAR performance levels:

1. Limit the excessive use of windows in the design.

2. Discourage the use of recess lighting. If recess lighting cannot be avoided, specify AT/IC (Air Tight/Insulation Contact) rated fixtures.

3. If a gas range is used, position it so that exterior venting can occur. It is preferable to place the range on an exterior wall to reduce duct length.

4. The use of ENERGY STAR labeled appliances is recommended.

5. The use of “Non-vented” or “Ventless” appliances, such as fireplaces, is prohibited.

6. A modular home design should be pre-checked by the local ENERGY STAR office for requirements of certification to be discussed during the planning stage.

Lower utility costs + Greater comfort = Smart decision

ENERGY STAR labeled homes offer savings every month through utility bills that are significantly lower than those of equivalent, standard homes. These savings can amount to hundreds of extra dollars every year. These homes have tighter construction, which eliminates drafts, reduces outside noise and blocks the entry of airborne pollutants. Tighter ducts improve airflow; allows to maintaining a desired temperature throughout the home. They also reduce exposure to indoor pollutants, which enter ductwork through leaks in attics, basements and garages.

Factory Installation Recommendations

1. R-38 attic ceiling insulation.

2. Caulk exterior walls together and to floor deck.

3. Insulated basement and walk up attic stair walls.

4. Weather-stripped exterior door to the basement or walk up attic. (Not required if basement is conditioned space)

On-site Home Builder Recommendations

1. Expanding urethane spray foam should be used to seal all set gaps between modules.

The critical areas are:

• Along the attic and ceiling joint between modules (access from inside attic)
• At the exterior module joint, vertical and horizontal. Must be done before the “belly band” and other sheathing splices are applied.
• Between the basement girders.
• The bottom module should be sealed to the sill plate and sill to the foundation.

2. All exterior doors must be adjusted so the weather-strip is sealing when light pressure is applied by hand to the exterior of the door. This usually requires an adjustment of the strike plate to accomplish a tight seal.

3. All plumbing and electric field connections have to be sealed after connections are made but before drywall is completed.

4. Ducts and pipes in chases have to be sealed around at the attic and basement ceiling levels using sheet metal, mastic and spray foam.

5. Bath fan ducts have to be connected to exterior boots in attic.

6. The attic ridge vent and soffit vents must be clear to allow airflow.

7. Areas where floor joists cantilever foundation must be sealed with blocking, spray foam and insulation.

8. High efficiency (AFUE) space heating equipment must be used in conjunction with sealed combustion chambers or power vents to prevent back draft possibilities.

9. Mastic must be used to seal all ductwork connections and fitting seams. Do not use tape.

10. Ducts should be covered in attic with attic insulation to place them within the heated envelope.

11. Installation of an HRV (heat recovery ventilator) is recommended instead of the suggested bath fan for “background ventilation”.

12. Use of set-back thermostats is recommended.

13. Compact fluorescent light bulbs should be in light fixtures.

About the author:

Kerri Kondisko, author and Sales and Marketing Manager for Avis America researched and wrote this article.  Please contact George Banks of Modular America Construction Corporation for more details 978-210-2708 or GBanksLDA@Yahoo.com.

Contact Information
http://www.modularamericacorp.com
Modular America Construction Corporation
32 South Main Street (Rt. 114) Middleton MA 01949
Phone: 888-453-6222 Fax: 978-750-9601