We finally have news we can share about updates to the ENERGY STAR for Manufactured Homes program. The EPA has recently clarified the future of the program and confirmed that ENERGY STAR Version 2 will remain in place beyond 2025, rather than sunsetting as previously planned.
That means current insulation and window packages can continue to qualify homes for ENERGY STAR certification at the plant — no changes are required to maintain ENERGY STAR labeling.
Current Prescriptive Package for ENERGY STAR Version 2
Homes built to the following specifications remain eligible for ENERGY STAR Version 2 certification at the plant:
Attic: R-40
Walls: R-21
Floor: R-33
Windows: U-0.34 (air-filled window)
This combination represents the ongoing NEEM unlimited glazing prescriptive package, matching the ENERGY STAR Version 2 “Envelope and Glazing” requirements.
Manufacturers and Retailers can continue marketing ENERGY STAR certified homes under these specifications without interruption.
ENERGY STAR Version 3: The Next (Small) Step
ENERGY STAR Version 3 is also active for manufactured homes. Its building envelope requirements are essentially thermally equivalent to Version 2, but it requires an argon-filled window as part of the package. Also, multi-section homes require either a high efficiency 95 AFUE gas furnace or a heat pump installation to move from ENEGY STAR Version 2 to Version 3 certification.
The prescriptive envelope package for ENERGY STAR Version 3 is as follows:
Attic: R-38
Walls: R-21
Floor: R-33
Windows: U-0.30 (argon-filled window)
The NEEM program will automatically certify homes as Version 3 when they qualify as such at the factory. Anyone sending the NEEM program proof of heat pump installation on a home that otherwise qualifies for Version 3 can receive a new certificate that shows the home is certified to Version 3. We don’t foresee a lot of demand for doing this, but NEEM is ready to do so.
The Bottom Line
There is no real distinction between ENERGY STAR Version 2 and Version 3 certification for homebuyers, in terms of utility incentives or other benefits. Of course, the NEEM program recommends adding a heat pump, especially to electrically heated homes and never should a regular air conditioner be added to an electric furnace. Selecting a high efficiency 95 AFUE furnace is a wise choice for gas homes. Depending upon the window U-value, adding a heat pump or opting for a high efficiency gas furnace can move a home from Version 2 to Version 3, if that helps with promoting the upgrades.