Do you know how many tons of cooling your air conditioner can deliver? In the world of building science, oversized air conditioners are known to cause poor dehumidification, shorter equipment life, and uneven comfort throughout the home. But before you can decide whether your AC is the right size for your house, you need to […]
Homeowners looking for an energy-efficient way to cool their homes often turn to whole house fans as a compelling alternative to running air conditioning around the clock. These ventilation systems pull hot indoor air into the attic and exhaust it outside, drawing cooler outdoor air through open windows to create a refreshing cross-breeze. In climates
Leaky ductwork is one of the most common energy-wasting problems in residential HVAC systems. When ducts leak at their joints and seams, conditioned air escapes into unconditioned spaces like attics and crawlspaces, forcing heating and cooling equipment to work harder than necessary. These leaks also create room-to-room pressure imbalances that undermine thermal comfort and can
If you are planning to install exterior rigid foam on the walls of a house, one question dominates the design process: how thick should the foam be? Building scientists and energy code authorities have studied this question extensively, and the answer depends on your climate zone, the wall assembly thickness, and the type of rigid
Homeowners considering a new water heater often ask whether an electric tankless unit is the right choice. This question is especially relevant for homes with limited space, intermittent usage, or a desire to reduce energy consumption. The GreenBuildingAdvisor Q&A Spotlight on this topic examines a real-world case: a vacation homeowner facing very cold incoming water,
Many homeowners assume that installing a fan in the attic is a straightforward way to lower cooling costs and keep the home comfortable during hot weather. But the reality is more nuanced. Depending on which type of fan you install, an attic fan can either provide meaningful relief or quietly increase your energy bills while
As global temperatures climb and extreme weather events become more frequent, homeowners and builders are facing a new set of challenges. Atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO2) levels recently exceeded 420 parts per million at the Mauna Loa Observatory, a threshold that seemed unthinkable just a generation ago. This shifting climate does more than raise outdoor temperatures.
When constructing a sustainable home, the foundation system plays a critical role in both structural integrity and energy performance. Traditional concrete foundations require significant amounts of cement, which carries a high carbon footprint. For builders looking to reduce environmental impact without sacrificing strength, the insulating composite concrete form (ICCF) system offers a compelling alternative. The
In recent years, the construction industry has faced growing scrutiny over the health and environmental impacts of insulation materials. While insulation remains essential for energy efficiency and comfort, a growing body of research has raised legitimate concerns about the safety of some of the most commonly used products. From fiberglass classified as a potential carcinogen
In residential construction, keeping the first floor close to grade is a design priority for homeowners planning to age in place. Every inch of step-up height matters when accessibility is a concern, yet conventional foundation-to-floor connections often create a significant elevation difference that forces occupants to climb multiple steps at the entry. A Flat Plate
