Term
Active Solar Heating
Active Solar Power
Adv.Framing/Concrete Const.
American Lung Assoc.
Attached Greenhouse
Attic Fan
Brownfields
Built Green
Ceiling Fan(s)
Cellulose Insulation - Post Consumer Recycled Content
Demand Control Limiter
Double Pane Windows
Drought Tolerant Plants
Dual Flush Toilets
Ecobroker Certified
Elec. Thermostat Timer
Energy Audit
Energy Efficient Appliances
Energy Efficient Light Fixtures
Energy Efficient Mortgage
Energy Efficient Tax Incentives
Energy Rated
Energy Recover Ventilator
Energy Star
Energy Star Appliance(s)
Energy Star Hot Water Heater
Energy Star HVAC
Energy Star Mortgage
Energy Star Windows
Energy Star® Light Fixtures
Energy Survey Complete
Engineered Wood Products
Enhanced Air Filtration
EPA WaterSense Plumb. Fixt.
ET Irrigation Control
Fiber Cement
Forest Stewardship Council Wood
Fresh Air Ventilaton
Geo Ther. Heat Sys. (Clsd Loop)
Geothermal HVAC
Green/Living Roof
Grey Water System
HERS Rating
High Efficiency Furnace
High Efficiency Hot Water
HVAC (16 SEER+)
ICF - Insulated Concrete Form
Indoor Air Quality
Infill Lot
Instant Hot Water Dispenser
Insulated Concrete Forms
Insulated Glass Windows
Insulation - Blown
Insulation - Foam in Place
Load Controller
Low Emittance Doors/Windows
Low Flow Commode
Low Flow Fixtures
Mechanical Fresh Air
Modular/Prefabrication
Multi-Pane Windows
Multi-Zones
NES Insulation Pkg.
No-Low VOC/Paints,Sealants,Varn
Passive Solar
Photovoltaics-Solar Power
Programmable Thermostat
Radiant Barrier
Radiant Floors - Air
Radiant Floors - Electrical
Radiant Floors - Hydronic
Radiant Heated Floors
Rain Garden
Rain Water Catchment
Rain/Freeze Sensors
Rainwater Collection
Recirculating Hot Water Heater
Recirculating Pump
Recycled Components
Recyled Const/Household Waste
Reflective Roof Coating
R-Value Upgrades
Sealed Combustion Firepl/Woodst
Sealed Crawl Space
Sealed Ducting
Set Back Thermostat
SIP - Structured Insulated Panels
Solar Assisted Hot Water
Solar Domestic Hot Water
Solar Electric System
Solar Heat
Solar Hot Water
Solar Hot Water Heat
Solar Pool Equipment
Solar Rough-In
Solar Water
Southern Exposure
Spray Foam Insulation
Storm Doors
Storm Windows
Straw Bale
Sun Space
Sunscreen(s)
Sustainable Flooring
Tankless Water Heater
Technology - Smart Home System
Triple Pane Windows
Trombe Wall
TVA Insulation Pkg.
Wind Power
xeriscaping-Drought Resist. Plnts
Definition
There are two basic types of active solar heating systems. Liquid-based systems heat
water or an antifreeze solution in a "hydronic" collector, whereas air-based systems
heat air in an "air collector." (The collector is the device in which a fluid is heated by
the sun.) Both of these systems collect and absorb solar radiation, then transfer the
solar heat directly to the interior space or to a storage system, from which the heat is
distributed. If the system cannot provide adequate space heating, an auxiliary or back-
up system provides the additional heat. Both air and liquid systems can supplement
forced air systems.
Refers to a solar electric (photovoltaic or "PV") system vs. a passive solar building.
Active solar power means the sun's energy is converted into electricity for the home,
usually with PV panels installed on the roof.
Advanced framing is also referred to as optimum value engineering or OVE. In general
it refers to using less material in the framing of the home, which,depending on which
method is used, can save on material costs for the home, improve its energy efficiency
by decreasing the number of breaks in the thermal barrier of the building envelope, or
both. Concrete construction is a separate building
method generally involving the use of insulated concrete forms (ICFs) which typically
saves costs on the home construction because the method is very fast compared with
"stick built" homes, as well as creating a very durable and efficient home. It may be that
these two methods (advanced framing and concrete construction) are used in
combination in certain regions, hence this term being combined into one by the
Triangle MLS.
It is likely that this refers to the ALA's Health House® program. According to its Web
site, "A Health House® home gives you the satisfaction of knowing that your new home
has a healthy, safe, durable and energy efficient environment. Our homes are built to
the most stringent building standards in the U.S., which include site inspections during
construction and performance testing upon completion." Typical components of a
Health House® Home include:
-Foundation waterproofing and moisture control
-Advanced framing techniques
-Air sealing and advanced insulation techniques
-Energy efficient, high performance windows
-Energy efficient and sealed combustion appliances
-High efficiency air filtration
-Whole house ventilation
-Humidity control
-Carefully selected and reviewed interior finishes
An attached greenhouse, particularly on a lower floor (or even below the first floor) and
on the south side of the home is one way to provide passive solar heat to the home.
The heat collected by the greenhouse at the lower level will rise into the interior of the
home by way of convection. (Heat rises.) Given that passive solar heat is not often
needed in warmer climates, it's not suprising to see this particular term used by a
Colorado MLS but not others that responded to the informal survey.
Attic temperatures can get up to 150ºF without an attic fan. Attic fans create a positive
air-flow through your attic that does not rely on wind or require excessive passive
venting. (If poorly done, excessive passive venting can cause excessive moisture
infiltration in the form of snow or rain.) The attic fan is normally mounted up on the roof
of the home toward the back about two feet down from the peak. It goes on and off
automatically with a thermostat, so it only runs when it is beneficial. The attic fan has a
flashing that fits in with the shingles and is water-proof. Attic fans use less than 300
Watts, and offer these important advantages:
1. Lowers upstairs room temperatures by 10º.
2. Lengthens roof life by keeping shingles cooler.
3. With an optional humidistat, keep attics dry during winter months.
4. Saves up to 30% on air-conditioning costs. (Savings vary by region and roof
characteristics.)
Brownfields are real property, the expansion, redevelopment, or reuse of which may be
complicated by the presence or potential presence of a hazardous substance,
pollutant, or contaminant. Cleaning up and reinvesting in these properties protects the
environment, reduces blight, and takes development pressures off greenspaces and
working lands.
A green building program in Washington state.
Ceiling fans can be considered an efficient characteristic of a home b/c they can be
used in lieu of air conditioners before temperatures get very high, and in cold months
they can be set on low to help push warm air down into the living space, particuarly in
homes with high ceilings.
Cellulose insulation is plant fiber used in wall and roof cavities to separate the inside
and outside of the building thermally and acoustically. Typical materials used to
manufacture it include old newspapers, and telephone directories. For fire retardant
and pest control, borates and ammonium sulfate are added. Four major types of loose-
fill cellulose products have been developed under a variety of brand names. These are
generally characterized as dry cellulose, spray applied cellulose, stabilized cellulose
and low dust cellulose. These types are used in different parts of a building and for
different reasons.
A wireless control that is (typically) hooked up to a water heater. During times of peak
demand, the utility can turn off someone’s water heater to lower the overall demand for
electricity. These can be hooked up to other energy using products in the home, but
the water heater is probably most common.
Double or triple pane glass windows are used to reduce heat flow. They often contain
argon, krypton, or other gases between panes, which insulate better than regular air.
Native species of plants, shrubs and vines will generally not require additional watering
to thrive in their own habitat. This indicates that a home with drought tolerant plants will
require very little if any watering of the landscaping to keep it looking nice.
Toilets with two buttons for two flush options. Option one allows the user to flush with
less water for liquid waste, while option two allows the user to flush with more water for
solid waste. Generally the words "dual flush" will appear in the model name for that
toilet.
EcoBroker is a provider of green designation training for real estate professionals.
Founded in 2002, the company was the first of its kind in the country to provide this
type of educational opportunity in the real estate industry on a large scale. Through
EcoBroker’s unique energy and environmental curriculum, real estate professionals
acquire the knowledge and resources to become Certified EcoBrokers®. EcoBroker
has thousands of members in all 50 states and internationally, and is a Built Green
education partner.
Typically referred to as programmable thermostats. Programmable thermostats save
energy by permitting occupants to set temperatures according to whether the house is
occupied. These thermostats can automatically store and repeat settings daily with
allowance for manual override. By eliminating manual setback, which is easy to forget,
they allow the setting of more comfortable temperatures in the morning before
occupants wake. Temperature setback can be adjusted for both heating and cooling
seasons. Programmable thermostats can be set to adjust the temperature setting
according to a user's schedule. These thermostats typically have a digital interface that
allows more precise temperature control and a wider range of options or features.
This term is used fairly broadly to describe any type of energy assessment of a home,
whether it be a HERS rating, a "clipboard" inspection, or an energy audit where
diagnostic equipment is used and recommendations are made, but no score is given.
The true meaning of this term will vary by region and by local availability of types of
audits or energy assessments.
Self explanatory. However, it should be noted that "energy efficient" can mean different
things to different people. The ENERGY STAR label is a credible third-party
certification of a product's energy efficiency. Consumers can also refer to the FTC's
EnergyGuide label, a yellow label affixed to most appliances today.These products
have the label: clothes washers, dishwashers, refrigerators, freezers, water heaters,
window air conditioners, central air conditioners, furnaces, boilers, heat pumps, and
pool heaters. These do not: televisions, ranges, ovens, clothes dryers, humidifiers, and
dehumidifiers.
This can refer to the fixture itself or to the type of bulbs used in most fixtures. Buyer will
want to clarify. In general, compact fluorescent light bulbs are most efficient. Some
fixtures such as under counter lighting and decorative or holiday lights are becoming
more prevalent on the market today and contain light emitting diodes, or LEDs (also
known as "solid state lighting"), which are more efficient than CFLs.
In very general terms, this refers to a loan product that takes a home's energy
efficiency into account when determining the qualifying ratios for a buyer. The rationale
is that an efficient home means monthly bills will be lower so that buyer is a lower risk
borrower than average. Not widely available yet and primarily applies to new
construction. However in some markets, an energy improvement mortgage can be
utilized to make energy improvements within a certain amount of time of purchasing
the home to improve its energy efficiency. It is likely that consumers will begin to hear
more about these products within the coming year.
These change from year to year depending on legislation. It is my experience that one
single reliable source is difficult to find, but a pretty thorough source is cited at right.
See "Energy Audit" above. An energy rating provides a score for the home. Generally
energy ratings have to be used to determine the ratios for an energy efficient
mortgage.
A type of ventilation system wherein the heated (or cooled) air being vented out of the
home is used to heat (or cool) the supply air being pulled in from outdoors, thereby
decreasing the amount of energy needed to heat or cool the supply air.
Government program that sets standards for energy efficiency in a variety of products
as well as in new home construction. In some areas, a "Home Performance with
ENERGY STAR" label can be earned on the retrofit or improvement of an existing
home to ENERGY STAR standards.
See "Energy Star" above.
See "Energy Star" above.
See "Energy Star" above.
See "Energy Star" above.
See "Energy Star" above.
See "Energy Star" above.
This refers to the fact that some form of assessment on the energy usage of the home
has been performed and possibly serves to cue the agent to ask for a copy of the
report for the buyer client. See "Energy Audit" above.
Engineered wood refers to a type of composite wood with superior durability and
strength. Thinner or fewer pieces of engineered wood are required to meet the same
strength requirements than would be needed with traditional wood.
Probably refers to superior media filters such as high level HEPA or even MERV filters
on HVAC equipment.
EPA Watersense certified products that meet its water-efficiency criteria.
"ET" here refers to evapo-transpiration and is a plant and soil process. ET Irrigation
control uses sensors in and around the soil to determine whether watering is really
needed or not by measuring how dry or moist the soil is.
This product is available from several manufacturers in a variety of textures that are
said to provide the appearance of wood. Fiber-cement siding should be more durable
than wood -- it is termite-resistant, water-resistant, non-combustible, and warranted to
last 50 years. Fiber-cement siding is composed of cement, sand, and cellulose fiber
that has been autoclaved (cured with pressurized steam) to increase its strength and
dimensional stability. The fiber is added as reinforcement to prevent cracking. The
planks come in 5¼" to 12" widths and 5/16" and 7/16" thickness.
Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) is a non-profit organization devoted to encouraging
the responsible management of the world’s forests. FSC sets high standards that
ensure forestry is practiced in an environmentally responsible, socially beneficial, and
economically viable way. Landowners and companies that sell timber or forest
products seek certification as a way to verify to consumers that they have practiced
forestry consistent with FSC standards. Independent, certification organizations are
accredited by FSC to carry out assessments of forest management to determine if
standards have been met. These certifiers also verify that companies claiming to sell
FSC certified products have tracked their supply back to FSC certified sources. This
chain of custody certification assures that consumers can trust the FSC label.
Probably refers to mechanical ventilation as part of the HVAC that draws in fresh air
rather than just recirculating and filtering the air inside the home.
Geothermal heat pumps (GHPs) use the constant temperature of the earth to provide
cooling and heating for a home. There are different types of geothermal heat pumps,
but the principle on which they operate is similar. A loop of piping is buried in the
ground and fluid circulates through the loop. In the summer, the fluid uses the cooler
temperature of the ground to provide indoor cooling. During colder months, the
geothermal heat pump uses the below-ground temperature, which is significantly
warmer than the outside air, to warm the home.
See "Geo Ther. Heat Sys. (Clsd Loop)" above
A green roof is basically a roof which includes a typical roof surface covered by a water-
proofing membrane, a drainage plane, a water retention medium, and plantings of
drought-resistant species. However, designs differ depending on a variety of factors.
Green roofs are not yet common on single family homes, but can be seen more
frequently in multifamily or other large urban buildings. The benefits of a green roof
include control of stormwater runoff which can reduce urban water pollution, absorption
of airborne toxins and increase in oxygen in the air, reduction of surface temperature of
the roof, cooling of surrounding air, reduction of the urban heat island effect, noise
insulation, longer roof life, better insulation, and provision of additional "land" area.
Greywater is wastewater from bathtub, shower drain, sinks, washing machines, and
dishwashers. By designing plumbing systems to separate it from blackwater (toilet
water), greywater can be recycled for irrigation, toilets, and exterior washing, resulting
in water conservation. When planned into new residential construction, the home's
wastewater treatment system can be significantly reduced, resulting in cost and space
savings.
The HERS Index is a scoring system established by the Residential Energy Services
Network (RESNET) in which a home built to the specifications of the HERS Reference
Home (based on the 2006 International Energy Conservation Code) scores a HERS
Index of 100, while a net zero energy home scores a HERS Index of 0. Each 1-point
decrease in the HERS Index corresponds to a 1% reduction in energy consumption
compared to the HERS Reference Home. Thus a home with a HERS Index of 85 is
15% more energy efficient than the HERS Reference Home and a home with a HERS
Index of 80 is 20% more energy efficient.
The specific criteria to be described as a "high efficiency furnace" is not defined by this
term alone. One can deduce that a furnace that meets ENERGY STAR standards or
better is a high efficiency furnace. ENERGY STAR furnaces have an Annual Fuel
Utilization Efficiency (AFUE) of 85% (oil) and 90% (gas) or higher. In general the higher
the AFUE, the more efficient the furnace. A homeowner or real estate agent could also
refer to the EnergyGuide label on the equipment to determine whether it was an
efficient product. The label was recently updated by the FTC. More information on the
EnergyGuide label and how to read it can be found at
http://www.ftc.gov/opa/2007/08/energy.shtm.
Once again, the criteria for establishing that a hot water heater is a "high efficiency hot
water" heater is not clear here. Generally an ENERGY STAR qualified model can be
considered efficient.
"SEER" is the Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio and is used to measure the efficiency
of central air conditioners and air source heat pumps. The higher the rating, the more
energy efficient it is. For reference, air conditioners that are 14 or higher SEER meet
ENERGY STAR criteria. (14.5 or higher for split systems.)
Insulating concrete forms (ICFs) are rigid plastic foam forms that hold concrete in
place during curing and remain in place afterwards to serve as thermal insulation for
concrete walls. The foam sections are lightweight and result in energy-efficient, durable
construction.
This doesn't seem to refer to anything tangible as a data field. Indoor air quality
depends on a number of factors that ideally could be independently verified by the
buyer's agent. EPA has a builder program called Indoor airPLUS but that is not
referred to specifically here.
Refers to a piece of land that was previously developed (and surrounded by
development) but could be reused or repurposed for a new home or building. Generally
in urban settings, this is a commonly known "smart growth" practice. Building on
previously developed land preserves open land and greenspace and revitalizes
previously underutilized property.
Consult the MLS to determine what this means. Also see "Recirculating Hot Water
Heater" below.
See "ICF - Insulated Concrete Form" above.
Insulated glass consists of two panes of glass separated by a space. The perimeter of
the glass is sealed, allowing no movement of outside air into the space. The space
itself can be filled with dehydrated air, or with a special gas. The type of glass, the type
of spacer, and the type of gas used in the space contribute to the overall insulating
efficiency of the glass, and also the total cost.
As opposed to bats of fiberglass insulation, blown insulation (which can be fiberglass,
cellulose, or wool) can often be easier and less expensive to install because of the time
savings involved. Various pros and cons associated with different types of insulation
can be examined at the Web site shown at right and the report posted there.
By acting as an air barrier, spray foam insulation provides insulation and air sealing in
one step. In addition, most foam insulation products have a higher R-value per inch
than fiberglass batt insulation. This increases energy efficiency by allowing downsizing
of the heating and cooling system equipment.
A load controller is an outdoor computer that is installed next to your breaker panel and
is connected to the 220v appliances like A/C units, clothes dryers, water heaters,
electric spa heaters, etc. This unit constantly measures the usage of power in your
home and directs efficiently to a pre-set priority which lowers your demand and thus
your bill. As the demand increases, the load controller "sheds" (shuts off), lower
priority appliances to maintain a user pre-set demand level. Dropping your demand
5kw = a $60 reduction per month.
Low emittance building materials include window glass manufactured with metal-oxide
coatings as well as housewrap materials, reflective insulation's and other forms of
radiant barriers. Can also be expressed by the Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC), a
commonly measured characteristic of windows and some doors.
Unlike some first-generation, "low-flow" toilets, today's water efficient toilets combine
high efficiency with high performance. Design advances enable these toilets to save
water with no trade-off in flushing power. An easy way to locate a "low flow" or high
efficiency toilet is to look for EPA's WaterSense label.
This can refer to a faucet with aerator installed, which lessens the flow of water but
improves water pressure, or a low-flow showerhead.
See "Fresh Air Ventilation" above.
This can mean several different things. Please consult the MLS for details.
More than one pane of glass in windows. Dual pane windows are fairly common. Triple-
pane windows can sometimes be found in cold climates.
Generally refers to an HVAC with multiple thermostat controls thoughout the home.
This is particularly useful in homes with a second or third level or an area that receives
significantly more sunlight than other portions of the home.
NES Spray Foam & Coatings is a regional firm (Minneapolis area) of spray foam
insulators in Minnesota. They apply open cell (Icynene type) 3.8 R value per inch,
closed cell (ridged) R-7 per inch and foundation foam/polyurea (a premium foundation
system). Based in Minnesota, NES is the largest spray foam applicators in the Midwest
with 10 mobile units. They can service anywhere in the United States. Completed jobs
in: New Orleans, Lockport, Shreveport, and Monroe Louisiana, Jackson Mississippi,
Des Moines, Council Bluffs, and Cedar Rapids Iowa, Kansas City, Kansas, Kansas
City Missouri, and Wisconsin. NES gives on-the spot field inspections and a product
that refuses to sacrifice quality or performance.
Most paints, adhesives, and finishes tend to release noxious compounds called volatile
organic compounds (VOCs), and this is referred to as "off-gassing". Using products
with very little if any VOCs provides for better air quality. Many paints, in particular, are
on the market today that can boast this claim.
A type of design which takes maximum advantage of the sun's energy to help warm
the home in winter, and helps redirect or block that energy to alleviate cooling needs in
summer.
Panels usually installed on a roof that collect the sun's energy and convert it to
electricity for use in the home.
A thermostat that allows the homeowner to set the temperature at different levels at
different times of day. For example, in winter, it could be set to be colder while
occupants sleep and warmer as occupants awaken, then colder again as occupants
are away at work.
Generally installed on the underside of roof sheathing in warm or hot climates, a
radiant barrier can help reflect some of the sun's radiant heat energy from entering the
attic. They can also help prevent winter heat loss from the home.
Because air cannot hold large amounts of heat, radiant air floors are not cost-effective
in residential applications, and are seldom installed. Although they can be combined
with solar air heating systems, those systems suffer from the obvious drawback of only
being available in the daytime, when heating loads are generally lower. Because of the
inefficiency of trying to heat a home with a conventional furnace by pumping air through
the floors, the benefits of using solar heat during the day are outweighed by the
disadvantages of using the conventional system at night. One product on the market is
a network of hollow steel forms imbedded in concrete beneath the flooring that acts as
a fairly efficient air plenum and heat storage mass. The network terminates at the
edges of the room(s) so it is a combination of radiant and air heating and cooling.
Electric radiant floors typically consist of electric cables built into the floor. Systems that
feature mats of electrically conductive plastic are also available, and are mounted onto
the subfloor below a floor covering such as tile. Because of the relatively high cost of
electricity, electric radiant floors are usually only cost-effective if they include a
significant thermal mass, such as a thick concrete floor, and your electric utility
company offers time-of-use rates. Time-of-use rates allow you to "charge" the concrete
floor with heat during off-peak hours (approximately 9 p.m. to 6 a.m.). If the floor's
thermal mass is large enough, the heat stored in it will keep the house comfortable for
eight to ten hours, without any further electrical input (particularly when daytime
temperatures are significantly warmer than nighttime temperatures). This saves a
considerable number of energy dollars compared to heating at peak electric rates
during the day.
Hydronic (liquid) systems are the most popular and cost-effective radiant heating
systems for heating-dominated climates. Hydronic radiant floor systems pump heated
water from a boiler through tubing laid in a pattern underneath the floor. In some
systems, the temperature in each room is controlled by regulating the flow of hot water
through each tubing loop. This is done by a system of zoning valves or pumps and
thermostats. The cost of installing a hydronic radiant floor varies by location and also
depends on the size of the home, the type of installation, the floor covering,
remoteness of the site, and the cost of labor.
There are three types of radiant floor heat: radiant air floors (air is the heat-carrying
medium); electric radiant floors; and hot water (hydronic) radiant floors. All three types
can be further subdivided by the type of installation: those that make use of the large
thermal mass of a concrete slab floor or lightweight concrete over a wooden subfloor
(these are called "wet installations"); and those in which the installer "sandwiches" the
radiant floor tubing between two layers of plywood or attaches the tubing under the
finished floor or subfloor ("dry installations").
A rain garden is a shallow, constructed depression that is planted with deep-rooted
native plants & grasses. It is located in your landscape to receive runoff from hard
surfaces such as a roof, a sidewalk and a driveway. Rain gardens slow down the rush
of water from these hard surfaces, holds the water for a short period of time and allows
it to naturally infiltrate into the ground. These help control stormwater runoff.
These systems can help in times of drought by providing water harvested during
periods of rain. Plants necessary for environmental stability can be watered and, in
some setups, fresh drinking water can be created.
Rain and rain/freeze sensors prevent your automatic sprinkler system from watering
during rain or cold weather.
See "Rain Water Catchment" above.
Hot water recirculation systems can be activated by the push of a button, or by a
thermostat, timer or motion sensor. Systems that use a thermostat or timer
automatically turn on the pump whenever water temperature drops below a set-point,
or when the timer reaches a setting. These systems ensure that hot water is always
available at the faucet without any waiting. Hot water recirculation systems generally
consist of a pump, an integrated electronic controller, and a zone valve. When the
activation button is pushed, or when another type of control turns the system on, the
pump starts recirculating cooled water that's been sitting in the hot water line and
sends it back to the water heater through the cold water line. When the water reaches
a desired temperature a control closes the zone valve and turns off the pump. It is
much like turning on the hot water faucet and letting the water run until it gets hot, but
instead of the water going down the drain, it is simply returned back to the water
heater. When the hot water faucet is turned on, hot water is readily available.
See "Recirculating Hot Water Heater" above.
This means that some materials used in the home were salvaged or are made from
recycled materials. One example is wood flooring made from salvaged timber from old
barns, etc.
This seems to refer to the notion that when the homeowner remodeled the home prior
to sale, they took care to be sure the old materials from demolition, etc. were recycled
rather than landfilled.
This refers to improved or added insulation in the attic or exterior walls to improve the
R-value of the building envelope. An R-value indicates an insulation's resistance to
heat flow. The higher the R-value, the greater the insulating effectiveness.
A sealed combustion fireplace or woodstove is a sealed unit that gets its combustion
air from outside of the home, and 100% of the combustion by-products are exhausted
to the outside. This eliminates the likelihood of "backdrafting" where combustion gases
are pulled back into the home where they can cause health problems.
This just means that the crawl space under the home has been properly air sealed to
conserve energy.
Oftentimes improper installation or wear and tear can cause the seams in ductwork to
work loose, wasting energy and sometimes causing moisture damage issues if the
duct is in the attic. Sealed ducts are more efficient and eliminate this problem.
See "Programmable Thermostat" above.
Often used in panelized construction, SIPS are panels made from a thick layer of foam
(polystyrene or polyurethane) sandwiched between two layers of Oriented Strand
Board (OSB), plywood or fiber-cement. As an alternative to the foam core, SIPs are
available with a core of agriculture fibers (such as wheat straw) that provides similar
thermal and structural performance. The result is an engineered panel that provides
structural framing, insulation, and exterior sheathing in a solid, one-piece component.
A solar hot water array on the roof supplements (but does not exclusively supply) the
hot water to the home. Water warmed by solar energy is pumped into the hot water
heater where less energy is required to get it hot or less cold water needs to be
warmed to fill the tank.
See "Solar Assisted Hot Water" above.
See "Photovoltaics-Solar Power" above.
Active solar space-heating systems consist of collectors that collect and absorb solar
radiation combined with electric fans or pumps to transfer and distribute that solar heat.
Active systems also generally have an energy-storage system to provide heat when the
sun is not shining. The two basic types of active solar space-heating systems use
either liquid or air as the heat-transfer medium in their solar energy collectors.
See "Solar Assisted Hot Water" above.
See "Solar Assisted Hot Water" above.
In a solar pool-heating system, the existing pool filtration system pumps pool water
through the solar collector, and the collected heat is transferred directly to the pool
water. Solar pool-heating collectors operate just slightly warmer than the surrounding
air temperature and typically use inexpensive, unglazed, low-temperature collectors
made from specially formulated plastic materials. Glazed (glass-covered) solar
collectors are not typically used in pool-heating applications, except for indoor pools,
hot tubs, or spas in colder climates. In some cases, unglazed copper or copper-
aluminum solar collectors are used.
This basically means that the builder has put in plumbing and/or electrical systems that
would allow a later addition of a solar photovoltaic or hot water system.
See "Solar Assisted Hot Water" above.
A home exposed to the south can take best advantage of passive solar design
principles to collect the sun's energy either for production of electricity (photovoltaic) or
as part of a passive solar design to collect the sun's heat in winter and deflect it in
summer.
Foam insulation that is sprayed into place and then expands to fill cavities. An
alternative to the standard insulation bats often used in older homes, spray foam
insulation is popular because it acts as both an insulator and a sealant. Spray foam
insulation makes it easy to completely fill wall cavities with insulation and to perform air
sealing in the same step. There are two types of spray foam: open-cell (isocyanurate)
and closed cell (polyurethane). The closed cell foams typically have a higher R-value
than open-cell foam.
Storm doors help provide a pocket of air between the main door and the exterior of the
home, creating an insulating effect. They can also help protect the main door from the
elements such as wind, rain, and ice.
Storm windows are a single pane window often installed on the interior of the main
windows of the home to help provide better insulation in the same way a storm door
does. Sometimes if window replacement is cost prohibitive, adding storm windows can
be the next best thing for saving energy.
Straw-bale construction is not a new technology. It is merely getting more recognition
today as consumers and builders look for more efficient and economic forms of
construction. Straw-bale construction has been around in the United States since the
turn of the century. Straw is a renewable resource in plentiful supply that can offer
simple construction and great versatility. There is approximately 200 million tons of
straw available each year for use in construction that would otherwise go to waste. This
waste straw is left over from crops such as wheat, oats, barley, rye, rice and flax, after
all the food has been extracted. The straw is gathered and baled using a baling
machine. Sizes of straw bales vary from 18"x14"x36" to 24"x18"x48" and weigh
between 50 to 90 pounds. The straw is compressed by the baler and tied together with
wire or string. A typical 2000 square feet house requires about 300 medium sized
bales. Typically the bales are placed over a "stem wall" which protects the straw from
the ground soil. Then the straw bales are stuccoed and plastered over for finishing.
Sunspaces serve three main functions: they are a source of auxiliary heat, they provide
a place to grow plants, and they are an enjoyable living space. In a basic design,
sunlight passes through glass or other “glazing” and warms the sunspace. The glazing
is either vertical (as typical windows are installed) or sloped at an angle. To moderate
temperature swings, massive materials (e.g., masonry or water) can be used to absorb
the heat and store the sun’s thermal energy. At night or during extended periods of
cloudy weather, this “thermal mass” releases the heat it holds to warm the interior of
the sunspace. Ceiling, wall, foundation, and window insulation in the sunspace retard
heat loss at night and during cold weather. Climate-control features include operable
windows, vents, and fans to keep the sunspace from overheating and to circulate the
warm air to other parts of the house.
This may refer to awnings or window treatments which effectively block the sun's heat.
This has a wide variety of potential meanings, from bamboo to cork to reclaimed
flooring. Consult the MLS for details.
Tankless water heaters provide hot water at a preset temperature when needed
without storage, thereby reducing or eliminating standby losses. Tankless water
heaters can be used for supplementary heat, such as a booster to a solar hot water
system, or to meet all hot water needs. Tankless water heaters have an electric, gas,
or propane heating device that is activated by the flow of water.
Probably refers to a series of automated processes whereby the homeowner can
control the home's HVAC and other processes remotely. May also refer to a variety of
sensors in the home that detect heat from sun and can shut blinds automatically, etc.
Will vary depending on manufacturer or installer.
See "Multi-Pane Windows" above.
Also referred to as a "solar wall", a Trombe wall consists of an 8–16 inch-thick masonry
wall on the south side of a house. A single or double layer of glass is mounted about 1
inch or less in front of the wall's surface. Solar heat is absorbed by the wall's dark-
colored outside surface and stored in the wall's mass, where it radiates into the living
space.
Most likely a regional program or product available in the Tennessee Valley Authority
area of the country. TVA operates in Alabama, Georgia, Kentucky, Mississippi, North
Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia.
Property uses power supplied by an onsite small wind turbine.
Xeriscaping is mostly used in arid regions, but its principles can be used in any region
to help conserve water.
Notes
"Passive solar" is referred to below.)
See
http://www.toolbase.org/PDF/CaseStudies/adv_framing_rpt.pdf,
http://www.toolbase.org/pdf/techinv/oveadvancedframingtechnique
s_techspec.pdf, and http://www.toolbase.org/Technology-
Inventory/Whole-House-Systems/advance-framing-techniques for
more information.
More information available at http://www.healthhouse.org/
Attic fans can be just for the attic itself (pull air through a vent in the
attic through the attic and back out a separate vent) or can be
"whole house" fans (pull air through open windows into the attic and
out).
More information available at http://epa.gov/brownfields/
More information at http://www.builtgreen.net/index.html
For more information see http://www.cellulose.org/CIMA/
For more information see
http://www.energystar.gov/index.cfm?c=windows_doors.pr_anat_wi
ndow
http://www.nrdc.org/enterprise/greeningadvisor/wu-planting.asp
AND http://www.nrcs.usda.gov/feature/backyard/watercon.html
http://www.epa.gov/watersense/pp/find_het.htm
www.ecobroker.com
http://www.toolbase.org/Technology-
Inventory/HVAC/programmable-thermostats
Several definitions are listed within the document, "RESNET
National Standard for Home Energy Audits", found at
http://www.natresnet.org/standards/audit/National_Energy_Audit_St
andard.pdf
More information about the EnergyGuide label and how to read it
can be found at
http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/edu/pubs/consumer/homes/rea14.shtm
For more information, see
http://www.energystar.gov/index.cfm?c=fixtures.pr_fixtures
http://www.energystar.gov/index.cfm?c=bldrs_lenders_raters.energ
y_efficient_mortgage
http://www.dsireusa.org/
http://www.natresnet.org/ratings/overview/default.htm
http://www.energysavers.gov/your_home/insulation_airsealing/inde
x.cfm/mytopic=11900
www.energystar.gov
www.toolbase.org/Technology-Inventory/walls/engineered-wood-
wall-framing
www.epa.gov/watersense
http://www.toolbase.org/Technology-Inventory/Sitework/smart-
irrigation-controls
www.toolbase.org/TechInventory/TechDetails.aspx?ContentDetailI
D=991
www.fscus.org/
www.eere.energy.gov/buildings/residential/geothermal.html
www.usatoday.com/tech/graphics/green_roofs/flash.htm AND
www.toolbase.org/Technology-Inventory/Roofs/green-roofs
www.toolbase.org/Technology-Inventory/Sitework/greywater-reuse
www.energystar.gov/index.cfm?c=bldrs_lenders_raters.nh_HERS
www.energystar.gov/index.cfm?c=furnaces.pr_crit_furnaces
www.energystar.gov/index.cfm?c=water_heat.pr_water_heaters
http://www.energystar.gov/index.cfm?c=airsrc_heat.pr_crit_as_heat
_pumps AND
http://www.energystar.gov/index.cfm?c=tax_credits.tx_index
http://www.toolbase.org/Technology-Inventory/walls/Insulating-
Concrete-Forms
http://www.epa.gov/iaq/index.html
http://www.epa.gov/dced/index.htm
http://www.energystar.gov/index.cfm?c=windows_doors.pr_anat_wi
ndow
http://www.toolbase.org/Technology-Inventory/walls/insulation-
blown-through-membrane
http://www.toolbase.org/Technology-Inventory/walls/insulation-
blown-through-membrane
Refer to manufacturer Web sites.
http://www.nfrc.org/label.aspx
http://www.epa.gov/watersense/pubs/toilets.htm
http://www.epa.gov/watersense/pp/bathroom_faucets.htm
AND
http://www.epa.gov/watersense/pp/showerheads.htm
http://www.efficientwindows.org/factsheets/MultiBenefitsFactsheet.
pdf
http://www.nesbuildingsolutions.com/default.htm
http://www.toolbase.org/Technology-Inventory/Interior-Partitions-
Ceilings/low-voc-paints
http://www1.eere.energy.gov/solar/photovoltaics_program.html
http://www.energystar.gov/index.cfm?c=thermostats.pr_thermostat
s
http://www.toolbase.org/Technology-Inventory/Interior-Partitions-
Ceilings/radiant-barriers
http://www.energysavers.gov/your_home/space_heating_cooling/in
dex.cfm/mytopic=12590
http://www.energysavers.gov/your_home/space_heating_cooling/in
dex.cfm/mytopic=12591
http://www.energysavers.gov/your_home/space_heating_cooling/in
dex.cfm/mytopic=12592
http://www.energysavers.gov/your_home/space_heating_cooling/in
dex.cfm/mytopic=12593
http://www.raingardennetwork.com/
http://www.toolbase.org/Technology-Inventory/Plumbing/rainwater-
harvesting
http://www.toolbase.org/Technology-Inventory/Sitework/smart-
irrigation-controls
http://www.toolbase.org/Technology-Inventory/Plumbing/hot-water-
recirculation
http://www.toolbase.org/Technology-Inventory/Interior-Partitions-
Ceilings/recycled-wood-flooring
http://www.energysavers.gov/your_home/insulation_airsealing/inde
x.cfm/mytopic=11340
http://www.energystar.gov/index.cfm?c=home_improvement.hm_i
mprovement_ducts
http://www.toolbase.org/Technology-Inventory/Whole-House-
Systems/structural-insulated-panels
http://www.toolbase.org/Technology-Inventory/Plumbing/solar-
water-heaters
http://www1.eere.energy.gov/solar/sh_basics_space.html
http://www1.eere.energy.gov/solar/sh_basics_pool.html
http://www.toolbase.org/Technology-Inventory/walls/sprayed-foam-
insulation
http://www.toolbase.org/Technology-Inventory/Whole-House-
Systems/straw-bale-construction
http://www.nrel.gov/docs/legosti/old/15971.pdf
http://www.toolbase.org/Technology-Inventory/Plumbing/tankless-
water-heaters
http://www.energysavers.gov/your_home/designing_remodeling/ind
ex.cfm/mytopic=10300
www.tva.gov
http://www.energysavers.gov/your_home/electricity/index.cfm/myto
pic=10880
http://www.energysavers.gov/your_home/landscaping/index.cfm/my
topic=11960