Fact Sheet
Description
The Environments For LivingŪ program is the only national, turn-key program that provides a complete
package of services to builders in applying the principles of building science to new home construction. By focusing on the home as a
system of systems, the program helps builders construct homes that are more energy efficient, comfortable, durable, and healthier and
safer than homes that do not include the program requirements. At all program levels, builders must follow specific requirements for
tight construction, fresh air ventilation, improved thermal systems, right-sized HVAC equipment, balanced air pressure, internal moisture
management and combustion safety. The Environments For Living Certified Green program adds requirements for
water efficiency and efficient lighting and appliances, for enhanced environmental benefit. The Environments For
Living program is prescriptive and performance-based, and does not require builders to use a particular manufacturer's product.
History
To date, more than 100,000 energy-efficient homes have been constructed under the Environments For Living
banner. The Environments For Living program was originally developed through the collaborative efforts of Masco
Corporation and two of the country's leading building science companies, Advanced Energy Corporation and Building Science Corporation. Building
Science Corporation provides ongoing technical review and Advanced Energy Corporation provides certification training and other services. In
2007, Masco teamed with General Electric to integrate GE's ecomagination(SM) and the Environments For LivingŪ
program into a new initiative that helps homebuilders and developers construct energy efficient and environmentally friendly homes.
Program Levels
Builders have several program options to choose from. The Environments For Living Certified Green
program is the flagship level, combining the energy and building science platform of the original program with added green features for
enhanced environmental benefit. Builders may also choose to participate in one of the four energy levels of the original
Environments For Living program -- Silver, Gold, Platinum or Diamond. Each level has progressively more
stringent requirements for construction and performance. Homes built under the Environments For Living Certified
Green program, along with the Gold, Platinum and Diamond energy levels, qualify for the EPA ENERGY STARŪ designation. Platinum
and Diamond energy levels also earn a designation under the U.S. Department of Energy's Building America(SM) program.
Homeowner Guarantees*
The Environments For Living program provides, depending on the program level, two limited guarantees:
energy use and comfort. These are offered at two- and three-year terms depending on the program level. Energy use refers to the estimated
annual amount of energy needed to heat and cool a home. As described more fully in the guarantee, if actual use exceeds the estimated
amount, the homeowner is refunded 100 percent of the cost difference. The comfort guarantee promises that the temperature at the location
of the thermostat will not vary more than 3 degrees from the center of any conditioned room for that zone. At all levels of the program,
qualifying homes are issued the guarantee on heating and cooling energy use, and all levels except Silver qualify for the comfort
guarantee.
ENERGY STAR is a registered trademark of the Environmental Protection Agency and is being used by permission.
BUILDING AMERICA is a certification mark of the U.S. Department of Energy and is being used by permission.
* Call 866-912-7233 for guarantee details and limitations.
Program Management:
Rick Davenport, Vice President
MASCO Corporation
2339 Beville Road
Daytona Beach, FL 32119
386-304-2222 main
386-304-2313 fax
Toll Free: 1-866-912-7233
PR Contact:
George-Ann Rosenberg
Redpoint Communications
1200 23rd Street NW, Ste. 611
Washington, DC 20037
202-887-1921 main
202-887-1749 fax
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