Likely ‘Passive’ House Is a Model of Energy Efficiency

A renovated 1960 split-level home in Mamaroneck, N.Y., is expected to win certification as a Passive House, representing a state-of-the-art energy conservation strategy and the first such certified house in Westchester County. The residence includes 28 solar panels on the roof and six layers of insulation in every exterior wall, making the structure one of about 100 U.S. homes that adhere to a stringent energy efficiency standard. “Basically, it’s a highly insulated building, very airtight,” notes architect Andreas Benzing. “You try to minimize heat loss and you try to maximize heat gain from the sun and windows.” Other efficiency features of the house include triple-pane windows and doors, an electric-car charging station in the garage, an induction cooktop in the kitchen, dual-flush Kohler toilets in four of the six bathrooms, low PVC paint on all the interior walls, and light-emitting-diode lights. A constant, balanced supply of fresh air is delivered by an energy recovery ventilator in the basement. “It sucks the air in, brings it to room temperature and distributes it throughout the house,” says homeowner Veronique Leblanc. She receives a $40 monthly bill from Consolidated Edison, but only because the utility has a $20 minimum distribution charge for gas and electricity. | Read More