At Virginia Homes, “Big Differences, Better Homes” isn’t just a tagline. It’s the attitude behind how we build our homes. From the roof to the foundation, and everywhere in between, Virginia homes are different – and better! For example, our homes aren’t just energy-efficient, they’re HERS rated.
The HERS Index was developed by RESNET, and is the industry standard by which a home’s energy efficiency is measured. RESNET, the Residential Energy Services Network, was founded in 1995 as an independent, non-profit organization to help homeowners reduce the cost of their utility bills by making their homes more energy efficient.
The Home Energy Rating System (HERS) is the nationally recognized system for inspecting and calculating a home’s energy performance. HERS identifies the rated home’s energy performance compared to a home built only to code requirements. A standard, code-built home has an index of 100. Each point below 100 represents a 1% improvement in overall energy performance.
For example, a home with a HERS index of 70 is 30% more efficient than a standard, code-built home. With a HERS score of 50, Virginia homes perform better – around 50% better – than a standard new home! And that translates into serious savings when it comes to your utility bills!
HERS scores:
- Virginia Homes – 50 avg. HERS score
- Energy Star home – 85 avg. HERS score
- Standard new home built to code – 100 avg. HERS score
- Existing home – 130 avg. HERS score
Estimated average annual utility bill:
- Virginia Homes - $2,650/year
- Energy Star home - $3,100/year
- Standard new home - $3,400/year
- Existing home - $4,400+/year
