ENERGY-EFFICIENT HOUSES
Advantages
•More stable temperature
• Indoor humidity better controlled
• Drafts reduced
• Reduced moisture
•House are very quiet
Drawbacks
• Higher initial costs
• Longer building period (in comparison to a
conventional house)
• Special training and experience with these
systems needed for contractors and builders
Beginning a Project
• Careful evaluation of the site
• Evaluation of the climate
• Optimum design and orientation
Thermal Envelope
• Shield of a living space from the outdoors
It includes:
• Wall and roof assemblies
• Insulation
• Windows
• Doors
• Vapor retarders
Controlled Ventilation
• Controlled, mechanical ventilation: reduction of
an air moisture infiltration
• Health risk reduction of outdoor air pollutants
• Promotion of more comfortable atmosphere
•Less probability of structural damage from
excessive moisture accumulation
Heating and Cooling Requirements
Auxiliary heating can include:
• A small boiler
• Furnace
• Electric heat pump
• Radiant in-floor heating
Cooling:
• Large fan
• Cooler
Sources
http://www.baufritz.com/uk/, 27/6/11
http://www.pueblo.gsa.gov/cic_text/housing/en
ergy-eff/energy.html, 11/8/11