New construction
New Residence
Bellaire
Completed Fall 2002
This house has greatly reduced power bills, about half of what it might be normally. The following features contribute to the energy efficiency of the home.
Active Systems
Electric panels
40 panels, with 2 inverters that convert DC power from the panels to AC for the house. There is a bank of batteries, that store about 2 days worth of power (excluding air conditioning). The house is only partially run off the panels. The refrigerator, chest freezer, TV, computers and a few lights are hooked into the system. A single panel can provide about enough energy to power a 75 watt light bulb.
The system was installed with the help of TSU students as part of a class project. The system was designed and the components were purchased by the home owner.
Solar Hot Water Heater
The two large panels on the roof are solar water heaters. They preheat the water before going to a tankless water heater. We try to wash clothes and run the dishwasher during the day to take advantage of the sun heated water. This saves on our gas bill. The financial pay back time is about 8 to 10 years.
Solar Pool Heater
The large rubber panel system on the lower roof is the pool heating system. The pool pump also pumps the water for the solar heater, making it very efficient to use. In the summer it can be set to run at night to cool the pool temperature. Our swimming season runs from April through October.
Geothermal Air conditioning system
A series of 11 wells in the back yard, about 250 feet deep, use the ground temperature to help heat or cool the house, instead of the typical outdoor air conditioning unit.
Passive Systems
Generous overhangs to shade the house and windows from the summer sun. Few windows on the west and east side to minimize heat gain
Natural day lighting, most rooms have windows on two or three sides to ensure ample natural light, artificial light is not needed during the day.
Fluorescent lighting in most rooms, lower energy costs and cooler than other kinds of lighting. Fluorescent is mixed with halogen and incandescent for design effect, and light quality.
Windows are strategically placed for optimal cross ventilation.
Skin vent sheathing system to keep the exterior walls cool. An additional air space in the walls vent to the attic, keeping the house cooler.
Radiant roof deck, and reflective metal roof helps keep the attic and house cooler.
Energy efficient appliances.
Energy efficient Pella windows.