design process study for the demonstration homes - Architectural ...

The Fallen Leaf project just completed its models and is now building the first production
phase.
Figure 10 summarizes the features of Fallen Leaf, and Figure 11 shows a Fallen Leaf
home.
FALLEN LEAF AT RIVERBEND
SUMMARY OF ENERGY CONSERVATION AND TECHNOLOGY STANDARD FEATURES
Solar Electric Power: Photovoltaic panels by BP Solar, with a 25-year limited warranty, rated capacity 2.0
KW AC. The electric output of each panel installation will be verified by SMUD. The Xantrex inverter
system actually allows the electric meter to run backwards. See the SMUD press release for more details.
Tankless Water Heater: Electronically controlled high-efficiency gas appliance by Noritz. Provides an
endless supply of hot water at a flow of 6 gallons per minute. Has no pilot light and uses no gas when not in
use.
Appliances: GE kitchen appliances are extremely efficient. The dishwasher carries the ENERGY STAR
label (ENERGY STAR does not rate ranges and microwaves). The range features the latest design highperformance
gas oven. The built-in microwave and designer stainless steel finish on all appliances are both
standard features.
Radiant Heat Barrier: LP TechShield roof sheathing reduces summer heat gain and winter heat loss by
reducing heat transfer by thermal radiation.
High-Efficiency HVAC Components: Top quality York compressors (13 SEER, 11 EER) and furnaces
(90% efficiency) meet or exceed the new state standards, and are much more efficient than units installed just
a few years ago.
Smart Vent System: This high-tech product makes whole-house fans obsolete. By using the HVAC system
ductwork, Smart Vent circulates fresh cool filtered outside air throughout the house, without the need to open
windows and let in dust.
Zoned Heating and Cooling: Provides comfortable indoor temperatures in two-story homes, using Beutler’s
patented ZTE system.
Upgraded Ducts: Insulated and tightly sealed ducts maximize the efficiency of the HVAC system. Installed
ducts are field-tested for performance through a sampling program conducted by a trained third-party
inspection service.
Lighting: All exterior and interior lighting fixtures feature the latest in energy-efficient fixtures, with
brushed nickel finishes. Fluorescent fixtures include bulbs designed to produce natural lighting in the critical
kitchen and bath areas.
Two Stage Toilets: Sterling dual flush toilets provide improved performance and save water. According to
the manufacturer, a typical family can save up to 6,000 gallons per year.
High-Tech Piping: PEX water supply piping has been proven for decades, and is now available for use in all
50 states. Wirsbo’s AquaPEX piping uses brass fittings and is extremely reliable, because it has far fewer
joints and connections than traditional copper. PEX also eliminates “pipe hammering” noises.
Ward Flex gas piping is a proven engineered product that is superior to traditional cast iron piping.
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