The 2009 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) contains several major improvements in energy efficiency over the 2006 IECC. The notable changes are • Improved duct sealing verified by testing the duct system • Increased duct insulation • Improvement of window U-factors from 0.40 to 0.35 • Efficient lighting requirements. An analysis of these changes resulted in estimated annual energy cost savings of about $145 a year for an average new house. Construction cost increases are estimated at $655. Home owners will experience an annual cost savings of close to $100 a year because reduction to energy bills will more than compensate for increased mortgage payments and other costs.
Revised: October 29, 2011 |
Published: September 30, 2011