Passive House and All-Electric Homes Learning Center

With cutting-edge technologies like heat pumps, electric fireplaces, induction stoves and heat pump water heaters, the all-electric home is already the less expensive, decarbonized and more premium option for new construction. With the passage of the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) in August 2022, all electric technologies are getting a major boost in federal incentives for homeowners and builders that will further drive their adoption. This presentation will profile the benefits, costs and strategies around building all-electric and an in-depth update about what the IRA will mean to both consumers and builders in the years to come.  Featuring: Joseph Wachunas, New Buildings Institute Brian Stewart, Founder, Electrify Now Read more

As new home envelopes have become more and more airtight, most in the homebuilding industry have come to understand that proper ventilation is critical. But how much air do we need and what systems should we install? This workshop will discuss the health impacts of ventilation, different ventilation rates and explore various ventilation systems: pros and cons, costs and benefits, and tips for installing the best systems for your project. By the end of this module attendees will be able to: • Understand the principles of air movement and ventilation • List the ventilation code and standard requirements • Identify various types of heat recovery ventilation equipment • Recognize the occupant and building issues resulting from inadequate ventilation • Develop a successful ventilation system upgrade/integration plan Featuring: Scott Pusey, Principal Sustainability Consultant of Steven Winter Associates, Inc. Read more

As new home envelopes have become more and more airtight, most in the homebuilding industry have come to understand that proper ventilation is critical. But how much air do we need and what systems should we install? This workshop will discuss the health impacts of ventilation, different ventilation rates and explore various ventilation systems: pros and cons, costs and benefits, and tips for installing the best systems for your project. By the end of this module attendees will be able to: • Understand the principles of air movement and ventilation • List the ventilation code and standard requirements • Identify various types of heat recovery ventilation equipment • Recognize the occupant and building issues resulting from inadequate ventilation • Develop a successful ventilation system upgrade/integration plan Featuring: Scott Pusey, Principal Sustainability Consultant of Steven Winter Associates, Inc. Read more

Air source heat pump (ASHP) design and installation practices have a major impact on system efficiency and performance and can affect customer comfort and satisfaction. This module provides and overview of the design and installation considerations as well as homeowner education to help ensure efficient air-source heat pumps and comfortable customers in cold climates. By the end of this module attendees will be able to: • Understand heat pump water heating technology and its applications • Determine the most appropriate system size and configuration • Recognize the signs of a quality installation • Properly commission new installations   Read more

Proper air sealing techniques are essential to increase building energy efficiency, durability, occupant comfort and indoor air quality. This workshop focuses on ways to enhance the building’s thermal and pressure boundaries through appropriate air sealing techniques. Attendees will learn about the importance of selection, and application of air sealing materials. By the end of this module attendees will be able to: • Summarize typical materials and methods used for insulation and air barriers on high performance projects. • Identify challenging details seen on construction projects and propose solutions on how these can be overcome. • Describe the common approaches for air barrier application on residential projects. Read more

Heat pump water heaters are becoming more available, efficient, and reliable than ever. As with other heat pump systems, the design and installation practices have a major impact on system efficiency and performance and can affect customer satisfaction. This module provides an overview of design and installation best practices and cover topics such as condensate management, proper sizing, and selecting the best installation location to enhance performance and customer satisfaction By the end of this module attendees will be able to: • Understand heat pump water heating technology and applications • Determine the most appropriate system size and configuration • Recognize the signs of a quality installation • Properly commission new installations Featuring: Adam Romano, Principal Building Systems Consultant of Steven Winter Associates, Inc.   Read more