Austin Touchstone Builders is a certified DOE Zero Energy Ready Home partner. This isn't just marketing—it means our homes are independently verified to meet rigorous federal efficiency standards.
What DOE Zero Energy Ready Requires
To achieve certification, homes must meet mandatory requirements in five areas:
- ENERGY STAR Certified Homes: Must meet all ENERGY STAR requirements first
- EPA Indoor airPLUS: Verified indoor air quality standards
- Hot Water Distribution: Efficient hot water delivery systems
- Lighting & Appliances: ENERGY STAR rated throughout
- Renewable Ready: Pre-wired for solar installation
Third-Party Verified: Every DOE Zero Energy Ready home is inspected and tested by an independent HERS rater. You're not just taking the builder's word—certification is verified by blower door tests, duct leakage tests, and detailed inspections.
Performance Requirements
Specific performance targets include:
- HERS Index: Must score significantly below code baseline
- Air sealing: Verified blower door test results
- Insulation: Exceeds code requirements in all areas
- Windows: Climate-appropriate U-factor and SHGC
- HVAC: Properly sized and commissioned systems
Why It Matters
Verified performance: Unlike self-reported "green" features, DOE certification means your home actually performs as claimed.
Future-proof: These homes are designed to achieve net-zero with modest solar additions as technology and incentives evolve.
Resale value: Certified homes command premiums in the market and appraise higher.
Comfort: The requirements ensure consistent comfort throughout the home.
Our Commitment
Every home we build can be certified to DOE Zero Energy Ready standards. We've integrated these requirements into our standard building practices, so you get a high-performance home without compromises.