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ecobayhouse
Joined: 03 Oct 2006
Posts: 1
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 Posted: Tue Oct 03, 2006 1:42 pm Post subject: I want to make my Bay house self-sustaining - how? |
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I have a house in a small town on the Chesapeake Bay, Oxford, MD. I have a relatively small old waterman's home that has seen a few updates over the years. I would like to make my house self-sustaining and energy/environmentally zero-sum to the outside world. Oxford is a fairly wealthy little town on the Bay, close to DC. I think that if I show others what can be done, they will follow suit. The truth is, homes near the Chesapeake are increasingly being purchased by those that can actually afford to be good environmental citizens, I think they need to be led by example.
Where do I start? Are there other places on the INternet I should ask? What systems would you suggest? This is a two story, <2000 sq ft home, 3 bedrooms, 1.5 baths, kitchen, living room, dining room, built around the turn of the century, modern plumbing a mix of old and new wiring. I am looking to develop a plan myself and then start the work with contractors, etc.
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tal
Joined: 02 Nov 2006
Posts: 2
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| Posted: Thu Nov 02, 2006 5:45 pm Post subject: |
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no replies to your post exemplifies my first thoughts when I read it.
You asked some huge questions, barely fit for a forum like this.
my 2 cents in any case start with,
what do you mean by "self-sustaining"?
and
energy efficiency/net zero energy consumption starts with a tight building envelope (requires well thought out ventilation), high r insulation, and ends somewhere around solar panels.
If you're really going to do this, you need a builder/remodeler who is experienced in doing this type of wokr and of course, lots of money.
If you haven't already, check out the us green building counil. they have links to local green building councils who in turn provide information about quality local construction types.
good luck. |
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TJCaine
Joined: 06 Nov 2006
Posts: 53
Location: New York, NY
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| Posted: Mon Nov 06, 2006 10:14 pm Post subject: |
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Tal is right. These days, the options and tactics for such an undertaking are numerous, impossible to encapsulate in a single post. Also, "self-sustaining" is an interesting term. I see truly self-sustaining as being completely removed from the grid--producing your own power, treating your own storm water, leeching your own waste. Tal brings up some good points, but it's not only about money, at a certain point there may also be lifestyle commitments. Composting toilets for example... extremely environmentally friendly but a fundamentally different process.
I may focus on shooting for a "extremely sustainable and efficient home." A title that is less encompassing. Building efficiency is important, the materials you use, the adhesives and paints, all of these things can be done in a more responsible way. If you're thinking about power, I'd research maybe a small wind turbine. If you're on the bay it may prove economic. Geo-thermal heating and cooling is also a viable option for residences. A great payback and cuts you out of the oil/natural gas stream if successful.
Of course, I'm going to be a bit biased. Yes a contractor with some experience (or at least willingness) is important, but having an architect that knows what green design is about is certainly a large step in the right direction. With the pilot program of LEED for Homes (supported and run by the USGBC) some architects can guide you more fluidly towards your desired goal of a greener home. |
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johnhad
Joined: 08 Nov 2006
Posts: 10
Location: Pennsylvania
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| Posted: Wed Nov 08, 2006 10:35 pm Post subject: The first step |
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The first step is to have an energy audit performed on your home. Nspects is an energy consulting company that I work for on the western side of DC. Please visit their website: nspects.com and set up an appointment.
The key to a high performance home is a tight building envelope. Do you know how leaky your home is and the quality of your insulation.
Six months ago, I started looking into selling solar modular homes - modularhomeplace.com when I ran into SIPs. I have been interested in sustainable building since I help with displaying a solar modular home on the mall in DC six years ago.
I can't stress the building envelope as to the influence on your homes energy needs, durability, indoor air quality. etc.
Since you live in Maryland, how are you coping with the 72% price increase on your electric? |
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