|
Habitat for Humanity affiliates will be partnering with local Congress members to build energy efficient, affordable homes with technical assistance from Building America teams under a concurrent resolutions adopted by the U.S. Senate (Resolution 43) and House (Resolution 184).
Building America researchers will be providing affiliates and their congressional partners with recommendations that will help them move toward an energy savings goal of 30-40% while also improving durability, comfort, and indoor air quality. These energy savings are expected to substantially increase the long term affordability of the houses particularly at a time when energy costs are increasing. Each affiliate will review the recommendations (examples below) and adopt those strategies that are appropriate for their climate and construction process.
Energy Features
- Air sealing details to prevent drafts
- High Performance Windows with Optimal Orientation
- Increased insulation levels in floors, walls, and ceiling
- High efficiency heating and cooling systems sized using ACCA Manual J methods
- Air tight duct systems sized using ACCA Manual D methods and performance tested
- Energy Star Appliances and compact fluorescent lighting
- Checklists for insulation, air sealing, and other energy efficiency details
- Estimated whole house energy savings goal = 35% - 50%
Indoor Air Quality Features
- Passive fresh air ventilation with filter
- Passive return air pathways from bedrooms
- Moisture control strategies
- Passive return air pathways from bedrooms
- Low VOC materials and VOC Source Control
As the Congress Building America project grows, case studies will be posted to www.buildingamerica.gov in the Affordable Housing section.
For more information contact
Janet McIlvaine
Building America Liaison to Habitat for Humanity
(321) 638-1434 or janet@fsec.ucf.edu
|
