Natural gas goes with Energy Star lifestyle

Southwest Gas Corp. has worked closely with the housing industry to increase the availability of energy-efficient new homes in Southern Nevada, and supports the criteria and guidelines of the Energy Star rating, according to Ruth Weaver, director of Energy Services at Southwest Gas.

"Energy-efficient construction, products and appliances give consumers more control over their budgets," Weaver said. "The comfort and convenience natural gas offers is enhanced by Energy Star homes and appliances, and that is a combination that benefits consumers and the environment as well."

According to Weaver, natural gas is the most readily available and most energy-efficient fuel for today's high performance homes and produces far fewer greenhouse emissions than other fuels.

Across the country more than 8,000 organizations, including more than 2,500 of the nation's home builders, partner with Energy Star. The symbol identifies more than 40 types of products that are energy efficient.

Consumers who want to be efficient users of energy and control their energy consumption should look for the Energy Star symbol when purchasing new homes, appliances and products, the Southwest Gas official said.

Energy Star-qualified dishwashers can save more than $30 a year in utility costs, with "smart" features such as effective washing action, energy-efficient motors and sensors that determine the necessary cycle length and water temperature.

Such technology can result in up to 41 percent less energy than the federal minimum standard for energy consumption.

According to Weaver, home builders and manufacturers are working to achieve a common goal - protecting the environment for future generations by implementing more energy-efficient practices.

For more information on energy-efficient natural gas appliances and available discounts, call the Southwest Gas Energy Specialists at 800-654-2765 or visit swgas.com.

A residential referral program for licensed HVAC plumbing, and appliance contractors, as well as service and repair needs is also available.

Southwest Gas is a member of Nevada Energy Star Partners, a coalition of Southern Nevada home builders, developers, retailers, mortgage providers, energy consultants and local utilities promoting energy conservation.

Energy Star-rated homes meet building guidelines for energy efficiency set forth by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

Homes that have earned the rating include a variety of energy-efficient features, such as effective insulation, high performance windows, tight construction and ducts, efficient heating and cooling equipment and Energy Star-qualified lighting and appliances.

These features contribute to improved home quality and homeowner comfort, in addition to lowering energy demand and reducing air pollution.