Southern Home Building: Energy, Comfort & Value

Chapter 1
Introduction 1-1
Format Of The Text 1-1
Lot Selection 1-3
Solar Orientation 1-3
Shade Trees 1-4
Tree Protection 1-5
Design Principles 1-6
Final Landscaping 1-14
The Value Of Specifications 1-15
Specifications 1-15
Contract Forms 1-16
Allowances 1-16
Selecting Contractors 1-17
Owner-Builders 1-19
Energy Specifications 1-19
Sample Plans 1-22
References 1-28

Chapter 2
Windows 2-2
Window Performance Ratings 2-2
Window Economics 2-4
Investment Considerations 2-8
How to Use the Economic Analysis 2-11
Window Shading Devices 2-11
Other Window Considerations 2-12
Appliances 2-13
Refrigerators 2-13
Dishwashers 2-14
Other Small Appliances 2-15
Water Heating 2-15
Using Energy Factor to Evaluate Alternatives 2-15
Water Heater Size 2-17
Alternative Systems 2-17
Mechanical Systems, Maintenance
and Replacement Costs 2-21
Recommended System 2-22
Waste Heat Recovery
Real World Tests Show Little
Or No Net Savings 2-23
Mechanical Systems
Net Yearly Savings Must Consider Maintenance Costs 2-23
Pool Heaters 2-26
References 2-27

Chapter 3
Construction and Insulation Practices 3-2
Floors, Airtightening 3-2
Floors, Insulation 3-2
Wood Frame Walls 3-5
Concrete Block & Load-Bearing Brick 3-12
Ceilings 3-15
Attic Ventilation 3-23
Airtightening 3-27
Passive Moisture Control 3-28
Wood Frame Buildings 3-29
Concrete Block & Load-Bearing Brick 3-35
References 3-35

Chapter 4
Vapor Barriers 4-2
Vapor Barrier Function 4-2
Humid Climate Location 4-2
Unfaced Friction-Fit Insulation 4-5
Unauthorized Local Requirements 4-5
Vapor Barriers in Cold Climates 4-6
Home Owner Action 4-7
Vinyl Wall Coverings 4-8
Air-Tight Ceilings 4-8
Major Ceiling Board Penetrations 4-8
Fireplaces and Air Leakage 4-12
Note on Fireplace Performance 4-14
Air-Tight Masonry Walls 4-14
Moisture Control 4-16
Moisture Impacts of Air Leakage 4-16
Moisture Generated By Occupants 4-17
Moisture Entering By Diffusion 4-18
Moisture From Construction Materials 4-18
Indoor Air Quality 4-19
Moisture 4-19
Radon 4-19
Formaldehyde 4-21
Combustion By-Products 4-22
Household Chemicals 4-23
Disease In Home Water Systems 4-25
Allergens 4-25
Asbestos And Fiberglass 4-25
Mechanical Ventilation 4-26
Example 4-27
Filtration Systems 4-27
References 4-33

Chapter 5
Air Conditioner Selection 5-2
Proper Size 5-2
Efficiency Selection 5-6
Refrigerant Charging 5-8
Controls 5-15
Compressor Unit Location 5-17
Fossil Fuel Heating Systems 5-18
Ceiling Fans 5-18
Distribution Systems 5-19
Multi-Story Buildings 5-19
Duct System Layout 5-22
Duct Sizing 5-24
Air Handler Location 5-29
Duct Location 5-32
Duct Leakage and Building Leakage 5-34
Duct Leakage 5-34
Duct Leaks Force Building Leaks 5-34
Duct Closure Methods, Requirements 5-35
Closure Products 5-40
Cavities Of The Building 5-41
Duct Insulation 5-42
Priorities 5-44
References 5-44