|
If you're trying to generate as much energy as you consume, obviously you should try to reduce the amount you're using before you invest in a green generator.
That's why our first task toward achieving green standards is always energy efficiency. |
|
WHAT STEPS DO WE TAKE?
Today's building code sets out the bare minimum in terms of how that building is going to perform. Accordingly, many developers and builders conform to these meager standards to save on the cost of construction. At Carbon Busters, we strive toward higher standards that necessitate careful attention during design and construction. Here are some of the ways we stray from conventional building techniques to provide comfortable and sustainable homes.
Conventional |
High Performance |
|
InsulationInsulation is the front line in our fight for thermal comfort. Conventional building techniques produce an effective insulation value of about R-20. We pack our walls with enough insulation to reach R-43; shrinking your heating and cooling bills from the get-go.
|
|
|
Air TightnessAnother essential component of the building envelope is the vapour barrier. Typically, builders worry about an airtight seal enough to pass a municipal inspection. We take several measures to ensure this barrier doesn't get broken during the rest of the construction.
|
|
|
Thermal BridgingThe wooden frame of a house doesn't insulate against thermal flow. In conventional buildings, studs and joists act like thermal bridges, carrying fugitive heat around the fibreglass defenses. We employ a double studded wall system, removing any heat's chances at an easy escape.
|
|
|
Drain Water Heat RecoveryTypically, all the hot water we use is lost to the sewer. Considering hot water can account for about a quarter of a homes energy use, there's a massive opportunity for savings there. We attach a heat exchanger to our drainage stacks, allowing us to get about 40% of that energy back.
|
|
|
Smart Heating ControlsMany homes are still heated using furnaces that have one, maybe two rates of output. So, even if the home is only a little cool, the furnace might be burning fuel at the same rate as during a cold February night. Any heating done above the desired temperature is wasted energy.
We use heat pumps with sophisticated control systems that allow them to supply just the right amount of heat. |
|
IS THAT ALL IT TAKES?
|
Not quite. We also design our buildings with the Sun in mind. We use high performance windows that maximize solar heat gains while providing the best insulation on the market.
We also place overhangs over the windows. This way, the high summer Sun is blocked while the low winter Sun is free to heat the home. Thus keeping both heating and cooling costs down. |
|
|
Of course, we also make sure every appliance we install is at least energy star compliant. Although, many of our appliances far exceed this relatively low bar. We also make sure all our homes get plenty of daylight to brighten your home. When you do need to flick the lights on, obviously they're all LEDs.
|