Green Building: Going…Going…Green!

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XI. ENERGY CONSERVATION OF HOMES

The Basic Approach
1. Synergistic Systems approach: 1+1=3
   1. Synergy: Each subsystem accomplishes multiple objectives
   2. Developed structural, insulation, and heating systems that don't significantly add to the cost of structure, but on net save a lot of heating cost.
2. Heating/Cooling System Design
   1. Calculate all the heat losses for each major building component
   2. Use Architectural Energy Corp. REM Design computer program.
   3. REM also projects annual heating and cooling costs.
   4. REM also lets us quickly determine the effect of changing component specifications.
3. Method: Reduce all components of heat loss:
   1. Simultaneously
   2. Moderately
   3. Example-an uninsulated basement is 50% of heat loss in a well-insulated home
4. K.I.S.S. - Keep It Simple and Small
   1. If it costs a lot, we find another way.
   2. Basic Components of the System
   1. Framing System: 2x4 @ 16" or 24" o.c.
      1. Optimum Value Engineering Details
      2. Less lumber means more insulation
      3. Thermal break - 1" polyisocyanurate.
      4. R-20 walls
   2. Ceiling - R-40
      1. Blown fiberglass
      2. Cathedral batts - treat like non-ventilated wall
   3. Window System
      1. Double glazed
      2. Low-e
      3. Argon filled
      4. R-2.5
   4. Airtight construction - think of as a balloon
      1. Drywall as air barrier
      2. Use foil back drywall or polyethelene as vapor diffusion barrier
      3. Urethane foam, closed cell gaskets, and caulk
      4. Continuous mechanical ventilation
      5. All baths ducted to one hardwired fan.
      6. Operates 27-7
      7. Very careful details at tubs and stairs
      8. Drywall to window - "J" channel with vinyl fins
   5. Simple, inexpensive heating system
   6. House orientation
   1. Face front north or south
   2. Use few windows on east and west walls
   7. Miscellaneous components
      1. No plumbing in exterior walls
      2. Fluorescent lighting in halls, kitchens, baths and exterior
      3. HomeTown's homes are projected to cost less than $200/year to heat. We guarantee for 3 years that the heating cost will not exceed $400 per year.

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