Deep Energy Retrofit
To offset global warming, scientists have estimated that buildings worldwide will have to reduce carbon output by 70%. Our home remodeling services include a renovation of a building structure using modern building science and the newest, energy-efficient products to meet this goal is considered a Deep Energy Retrofit or “whole home energy remodeling.”
Also known as “net zero remodeling” or “green remodeling,” a Deep Energy Retrofit is a comprehensive home remodeling strategy that achieves a 70% reduction in energy costs. It is a whole-home strategy that includes significant building envelope upgrades such as insulation, windows, and doors. Upgrades are also made to heating and cooling systems through the redesign of duct systems and the inclusion of on-demand hot water tanks or heat pump hot water tanks. Solar systems and heat pumps are also usually incorporated throughout the remodel where it makes sense to improve energy efficiency even more.
Reduce Energy Costs by Up to 70%
To begin the Deep Energy Retrofit process a professional energy audit should be performed. An energy audit can help identify whether your building requires a complete retrofit or if it can be addressed with fewer measures. Typically, the entire thermal envelope of the building must be rebuilt to accomplish your carbon reduction goals.
Clients of Building Energy are guided through the process with explanations, setting of priorities, and evaluations based on a client’s needs, budget, and time frame by our experienced staff. We customize our retrofit plan to your home.
Possible Steps Involved in a Deep Energy Retrofit
Energy Audit – This initial building analysis provides a review of your building and makes you aware of all that your building needs to complete the deep energy retrofit, the costing, and savings for each measure.
Insulation & Weatherization – Perhaps the most important step of any retrofit project, insulation provides the main barrier to heat loss and the highest energy and heat savings. Proper attic, basement, and exterior wall insulation will ensure the most reduction for your money. Air sealing and weatherization of penetrations, windows, and doors will also greatly increase the tightness of your building’s thermal envelope.
Windows & Doors – Replacing inefficient windows and doors with energy-efficient and insulated doors and/or windows can dramatically reduce air loss and energy waste by as much as 25%.
Heating Systems & Ventilation Systems – Analyzing your heating and ventilation systems is a high priority as heating is often the highest energy use.
Renewable Energy – If you are looking to achieve net-zero, or greatly reduce your energy costs, renewable energy such as a solar PV is an excellent option. Systems can be tailored to your building’s usage and needs. Building Energy provides free site evaluations and proposals. You can read more on our solar systems page.
Energy-Efficient Appliances – Purchasing and upgrading appliances, fixtures, and lighting to energy star-rated models can also make a notable improvement in your energy usage. Energy star-rated items use around 15% less than standard items