Energy Efficiency

BAIHP has assisted Cambridge Homes with the design of the showcase model such that it will use 40-50% less energy for heating and cooling than a conventional code compliant home.  Some of the features of the showcase model that contribute to this level of energy efficiency include:

  • High SEER AC
  • Double pane, spectrally selective low-e windows
  • Unvented attic ­ minimizes heat gain on ductwork installed in attic
  • Sealed and tested ductwork
  • Energy efficient lighting
  • Energy efficient bath fans with advanced controls
  • Energy efficient kitchen range hood
  • Energy Star appliances

Indoor Air Quality

BAIHP and Cambridge Homes have also partnered with the American Lung Association of Central Florida in the construction of this showcase model to incorporate many advanced indoor air quality features.  It is expected that the home will receive the prestigious American Lung Association "Health House" designation.  Some of the features of the showcase model that contribute to this level of indoor air quality include:

  • Whole house high efficiency ventilation, dehumidification, and filtration
  • Healthy flooring
  • Low VOC paints, stains, and finishes
  • Healthy cabinets and countertops
  • Whole house central vacuum system

Monitoring

The showcase model, as well as a similar model built to minimum Cambridge Homes specifications, have been instrumented and are being monitored in order to quantify the benefits of the advanced features of the showcase home.  Variables that are being monitored include:

  • Total power
  • HVAC power
  • Interior temperature
  • Interior relative humidity
  • Attic temperature
  • Attic relative humidity
  • Ambient conditions
.