applied building science to achieve a high performance homes
A Zero-Energy Home
…will require about 400 to 600 sq. ft. of south facing roof or 500 sq. ft. to 750 sq. ft. of an east or west facing roof for this Solar Electric and Solar Water Heating System. The roof should get five hours of sun between 9:00 AM and 4:00 PM
Now that you have selected your plans the various components and systems for your new home must be considered within an integrated systems approach. This represents a fundamental shift from the “old school” of building construction which took a component approach. A systems approach considers the interrelationship and impact of combinations of the systems, materials and components to optimize the performance of the home while minimizing construction costs.
For example, if better performance windows are selected then a smaller AC system may be used. Ideally, the savings from the right sized AC system can be reallocated to pay for the better windows which allowed the smaller system to be selected in the first place.
It is important to understand that there is no “list” or article that will provide appropriate guidance for the ZEH homebuilder. Each home represents its own set of issues which must be dealt with within a systems approach. Site conditions, home orientation, available fuel sources, health related issues, Federal, State, Utility and/or local incentives, as well as, budget restraints will be unique for each home.