Architecture & Design
ENERGY STAR FOR HOMES BASELINE
All ZERH Certified Homes must meet the Baseline Requirements of the ENERGY STAR for Home program for insulation, HVAC and Water Management.
THERMAL ENVELOPE
High-performance windows, insulation, and air sealing are critical components in the quest for energy efficient homes. Learn more about the minimum requirements for ZERH certification.
HVAC, LIGHTING AND APPLIANCES
Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning contribute to the comfort, health, and energy efficiency of your homes. ENERGY STAR rated lights and appliances ensure low energy use.
HOT WATER DELIVERY SYSTEMS
Efficient hot water distribution minimize water waste while waiting for hot water to arrive at your sink or shower. The EPA’s Watersense Program provides specifications for new homes.
INDOOR AIR QUALITY
The EPA’s Indoor airPLUS Program regulates the permissible levels of VOC’s, radon mitigation systems, moisture levels, and pest control to ensure a safe and healthy home.
RENEWABLE READY
ZERh homes are so energy efficient that a small photovoltaic system can easily offset most, if not all, of the annual energy consumption.
DOE ZERO ENERGY READY HOME
All new and retrofit homes must meet specified minimum requirements as verified by an independent energy rater to qualify as a DOE Zero Energy Ready Home (ZERH).
Samuel Rashkin, Chief Architect for DOE Building Technologies Office, said “Zero Energy Ready Homes like those designed by HDLB Architecture and Design are the home of the future because they live, work, and last better with incredibly low or no energy costs.”
“This level of performance is the home of the future because it improves the way Americans live by substantially reducing or eliminating utility bills, ensuring engineered comfort way beyond traditional homes, protecting health with a comprehensive package of indoor air quality measures, and helping maximize the largest investment of a lifetime.
