2012 Energy Code = Super Energy Efficient Homes.
The 2012 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) will improve a home’s energy efficiency 30% more than that of current homes being built following the 2006 IECC.
Currently six states have adopted the IECC 2012 codes or an equivalent energy code, with it being law in Illinois and Maryland and currently being adopted in California, Washington, Massachusetts and Rhode Island. 30 states have are using the IECC 2009 code that is approximately 12 to 15% more efficient than the 2006 code. By 2015 at least ten more states are planning to adopt the 2012 IECC code by the end of 2015.
What does this mean to new home builders and owners? Some of the requirements for the new changes in the Residential 2012 IECC codes are:
- Mandatory whole house pressure test (blower door) and passing.
- Duct leakage rates lowered
- Domestic hot water piping be insulated or short and skinny runs
- 75% of lighting fixtures will be high efficacy fixtures.
- Wall insulation requirements have become more stringent.
- Better windows depending on which climate zone you are in.
The 2012 International Residential Code (IRC) chapter 11 requirements for energy efficiency are now identical to the provisions found in the 2012 IECC.
To read more on Department of Energy Building Codes click here.
What is interesting is how will this affect the value of homes built prior to the 2012 IECC requirements? Will current homes that are 30%, 40%, 50% less efficient sell for less once the new energy efficient homes are being built?
David Popoff is a ‘Green’ Realtor & license Connecticut Real Estate Broker in lower Fairfield County, Connecticut.
DMK Property Management llc a locally owned company serving lower Fairfield County, Connecticut.
Specializing in Residential Property Management that can custom tailor a program to fit the homeowners needs be it short term or long term from rental management to full estate management.
Cell 203-228-0646
E-mail DavidPopoffCT@hotmail.com
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