EnviroHomeDesign
Energy Conservation
Strageties
Insulation
: Deciding which type of insulation to use was the most difficult
decision for us to make. We chose spray closed cell foam insulation
because it does not settle, it is a barrier to pests, and prevents
water penetration. The value of this insulation is much greater
than just the R value per inch because it completely seals all
cracks and holes www.summitinsul.com. The foam
insulation was installed at the roof perimeter keeping the heating
and cooling loss by the duct work inside the conditioned space of
the attics. Ultra Touch natural cotton fiber insulation was used in
the ceiling under the second floor radiant heat and for sound
insulation around the bathrooms. It is Energy Star rated, Class-A
fire rated, formaldehyde free, environmentally safe, and easy to
use http://www.bondedlogic.com
Daylighting: The windows and doors are energy efficient windows by Marvin. Not only do they seem to be well made but Marvin seems to be committed to recycling waste generated in the construction of the windows. We added two skylights at the Kitchen, and three solar tubes that bring natural light into the Second Floor rooms where windows were lost because of the addition.
Heating and Cooling Systems:
We have radiant
heat tubing in cement slab at grade level and tubing in quick track
panels on the second floor http://www.pexsupply.com/; both are
covered by a floating bamboo floor. This is a healthy and
comfortable heating system using the thermal mass of the materials
versus blowing hot air through ducts. The new wood burning
fireplace by KozyHeat is certified by EPA www.kozyheat.com. The fireplace
burns wood at 73% efficiency and draws 100% of its combustion air
from outside the house rather than sucking the warm air from the
house up the chimney. Also, it has a fan to circulate warm air
around the fire box out into the room. The cooling system has very
efficient 15 SEER units that were carefully sized using not only
the square footage but the type and R value of the insulation and
windows. Copper plumbing for a future solar water system was
installed.
Ventilation Systems:
We installed an
Energy Recovery Ventilator that captures temperature and moisture
from the stale, outgoing air and transfers it to the incoming air
stream. It has an energy transfer rating of up to 95%, moderates
indoor humidity in the winter and turns away outdoor humidity in
the summer www.untilmateair.com. Ceiling
fans are in all the main rooms of the house www.quoruminternational.com.
The location of the operable windows allow double cross natural
ventilation at most rooms. Operable skylights at the high ceiling
of the kitchen allow the hot air that rises to get out with a
chimney effect. Ventilation strategies improve comfort and reduce
the need of heating and cooling.
Lighting: The new light fixtures and
all ceiling fans are Energy Star rated as are the new appliances
www.seagulllighting.com.
