Why Alturas Homes Doesn’t Partner with HERS and Energy Star

We often hear folks, especially from out of state, ask us: “Are your homes Energy Star certified? Do Alturas Homes have HERS index scores?” While Alturas homes do not have Energy Star certification or HERS index scores, we want our homebuyers to know that energy conservation is a top priority. 

What are RESNET’s HERS Index and Energy Star?

Both companies advocate for energy conservation efforts in residential homes. These companies promise increased utility bill savings, more comfort, higher home value, and a cleaner environment. 

What is the HERS index? The HERS index is a rating system to summarize how well a residential home makes and uses energy. A score of 100 is the standard for new homes. A home with a higher score needs improvements. RESNET home energy raters assess the home by looking at walls, windows, doors, crawl spaces, thermal systems, and much more. 

What is Energy Star? Energy Star is a company that provides information and resources to make commercial and residential buildings more energy efficient. They give guides on energy-efficient appliances and building processes. Energy Star certified homes follow their strict standards in thermal enclosure, heating and cooling systems, appliances, and water management. 

Quality Without Extra Cost

Partnering with these companies gives some benefits, including savings on utilities, comfort, high home value, and a cleaner environment. However, these companies fail to mention how much the cost of their services adds to the homebuyer. Energy ratings increase the value of the home, which increases the price homebuyers must pay to own the home. Hiring raters, scheduling additional inspections, and other Energy Star and HERS procedures also add expenses to the construction process. 

We want to provide the highest quality construction at reasonable prices. Alturas Homes is already using many energy-efficient building practices. We don’t do it for certifications or ratings; we do it because our homebuyers deserve the best home possible.

Saving Time Through Scheduling

For a home to have a HERS score and be Energy Star certified, it must undergo a rigorous inspection process throughout the home’s construction. Scheduling additional inspections and other Energy Star/HERS procedures can set completion dates back. 

Idaho was reported to be one of the fastest-growing states in the nation in 2018. Newcomers need new homes. We’re keeping up with the explosive demand by streamlining our construction process. While we don’t schedule HERS and Energy Star raters, our superintendents still closely inspect the progress and quality of each home. We want our homebuyers to save time without sacrificing the high-quality home they deserve. 

Utility Costs and Energy Conservation

One of the benefits of Energy Star and HERS index is reduced utility bills. An article by the Idaho Statesman reported that Idaho has the lowest average utility costs in the nation, estimated at $343.71. Idaho’s energy conservation efforts are top in the nation, with nearly 70 percent of Idaho Power’s energy coming from non-CO2 emitting sources. 

Energy Star and HERS index scores might save a little on utility bills, but Idaho is already taking action on energy conservation and reducing your power bill. 

Alturas Homes has the Homeowner in Mind

At Alturas Homes, we adhere strictly to Idaho building code, which currently includes the 2012 Energy Conservation Code. We don’t stop there. Building a home requires more than just adhering to basic code. We are committed to standards of quality at every stage of the process. 

From the beginning of the construction process and throughout homeownership, energy conservation remains one of our top priorities. We believe that you deserve a home you love. 

If you are interested in an Alturas home, check out our available homes. Subscribe to our blog or follow us on Instagram for more!