A heat pump water heater is installed in the sealed crawl space, which helps keep the airspace dry and cool for efficient healthy storage.
home’s performance, comfort and indoor air quality. Like many homeowners, the Schmeltzers were accustomed to a ducted system with a natural gas furnace. To explore more efficient, healthier options, we sent them to an open house about variable capacity, split-ductless systems. Utilizing variable-speed compressors, these systems can be ducted or ductless, are compact, offer zone control and use the precise amount of energy required to meet the comfort needs of the homeowner, thus providing optimized efficiency. Split-ductless systems deliver superior air filtration. Each indoor unit includes a washable, reusable filter, unlike traditional systems that typically have a single filter for an entire residence. Once the HVAC designer calculated the loads of the home, four wall-mounted split-ductless units were specified, connecting to corresponding outdoor compressors — two upstairs and two downstairs.
We also used a jumper duct system, putting inline fans to deliver conditioned air to the closets and bathrooms — ultimately balancing the home’s indoor atmosphere. After beginning with a net-zero energy qualifying home design with a 21 SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) mini-split system, our HVAC supplier offered an alternate configuration that boosted the home to above 30 SEER. The Schmeltzers jumped at the opportunity. The units also have a highperformance heating capability, providing comfort in all rooms of their house even during Weaverville’s chilly winters. As the final step, we focused on indoor air quality. A common issue with local high-performance homes is negative pressurization, from continuous running bath fans. High-performance homes tout healthier living environments with cleaner, less contaminated air, but negative pressurization can do the oppo-
After living in a 2,400-squarefoot home for more than a decade, the homeowners made the choice to create a home with a much smaller impact on the planet.
GREENBUILDING DIRECTORY 2019-20
site, causing harm to occupants or creating bigger issues such as mold, carbon monoxide backdrafting, and moisture concerns. Many builders simply install a continuous running bath fan to qualify their home for green certification. Homeowners frequently disconnect after purchasing the home, which results in unhealthy indoor air quality. That said, we used an Energy Recovery Ventilator (ERV) for balanced and continuous fresh air for the home, which we install on every residential project. With efficient materials and mechanical systems plus an airtight thermal envelope, one more step was needed to achieve netzero energy: solar generation. By the end of construction, the Schmeltzers had a photovoltaic system added to their roof and connected to the electric grid.
The net With their solar generation, the Schmeltzers will actually net positive in warmer months, supplying the grid with energy. “We officially moved into the house in October 2018 and started monitoring our usage then,” Sally said. “For the month of February
2019, we produced about 600 kWh of energy; for the month of April, we produced 940 kWh.” In making the jump to build a highly-efficient home, the Schmeltzers have also reaped rebate benefits. Duke Energy provided them with a $3,600 solar rebate, paying a percentage for every kWh generated. They also received a federal tax rebate for building a new-construction home with a photovoltaic system. This home is a testament to one family’s commitment to high-performance building as a way to secure a better future. Homeowners skeptical about the investment of energy-efficient systems and materials should consider the impact on the planet, the health of their home and the long-term savings in their wallet, as well as the calling of the primitive heart to do better. Raymond Thompson was carved from the concept that a buffalo robe is the best house ever built. He spent years living on bicycles and in cars across the U.S. and Mexico. He is now on a quest for a future to pass on to his children. Raymond is the owner of Sure Foot Builders. Connect with Raymond at surefootbuilders.com.
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