Energy Conservation Project

UNIT 7STANDARDS: NCES 2.2.2, 2.8.1

Project Goal

Design an energy efficient home

Design an Energy Efficient Home

In groups of 3-4, brainstorm a list of features that might contribute to energy efficiency in a new home.

Discuss how to incorporate these ideas into a “practical” use for residential homes.

Find out what materials are used in energy efficient homes.

Describe how to monitor the efficiency of the home

Steps for the project

1. Select a style of house and select house plans. You can search http://floorplanner.com/.

2. Decide on the foundation, on a slab or crawlspace. 3. Materials to frame the structure. Wood, steel,

aluminum, block 4. Investigate the following systems for your new

home: heating and air (HVAC), plumbing, electrical, insulation, CFL or LED lights, and EE windows.

Consult people in the building trade.

What’s in your house?

5. Using the basic energy requirements, how will the systems in #4 be incorporated in your house.

6. Discuss any tax credits you may get from the installation of “green” technology.

7.Research the Energy Rating of your appliances (if any)

8. Project the annual cost to operate your house, heat, air, water, electricity, and general upkeep.

Budget

Consider building costs to average between $90 to $130 per foot of living space. Therefore a 1000 sq ft house, between $90,000 and $130,000.

Remember the goal is Energy Efficient. Suggested house should be at least:

– 2 bedroom, 2 bath, kitchen, family room, laundry, dining room, storage

Report out

The project should be produced using technology at your disposal. It can be a physical structure supported with a presentation.

Report on each step in your product. List the responsibilities and contributions of the

group as you present. Break the presentation into parts for each group member.