Environments for Living - Phoenix Green Homes

Environments for Living is a certification program for new homes that requires the home builder to use advanced building techniques to insure that the home is an energy efficient home built to reduce your living expenses, lessen its environmental impact, and improve its efficiency.
 
There are four core benefits to an Environments for Living home: 1) energy efficiency, 2) durability, 3) indoor environmental quality and 4) water efficiency.
 
Environments for Living homes have higher energy efficiency than normal contruction because of tigher construction using specialized framing techniques such as a continuous air barrier and sealing of penetrations help reduce internal leaks and drafts.  Also, these homes have improved thermal systems to minimize voids and gaps and better insulation to add to energy efficiency.  Builders of EFL homes are required to use low-e windows and make sure that the HVAC (heating/cooling) system is the right size for the home while making sure that the air ducting is properly sealed.
 
Durability refers to proper construction techniques including internal moisture management through proper ventilation and HVAC installation, tight construction to insure air barrier continuity and air tightness that will reduce moisture from entering the home, optimum value engineering with advanced framing techniques that focus on material conservation while maintaining structural integrity, and the use of low VOC (volatile organic compounds) paints that last longer and are more durable.
 
Indoor environmental quality focuses on maintain fresh air throughout the home, reducing internal moisture, air pressure balancing of the HVAC system to keep an even temperature throughout the home, the use of sealed or powered vented combustion appliances (such as a fireplace for example) and monitors throughout the home to avoid a build up of harmful and potentially deadly gases (such as CO).  Furthermore, indoor air quality is protected by using low VOC paints and carpets to prevent the off-gasing of harmful gases.
 
Water efficiency is achieved through the use of low-flow faucets and showerheads, high efficiency toilets and dishwashers, and Energy Star appliances.
 
To find a new home subdivision that qualifies under the Environments for Living standards, contact us at 602-993-7509.