DOE Tour of Zero: Laurel Gardens #794 by Habitat for Humanity South Sarasota County
Photos
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Habitat for Humanity South Sarasota County built this 1,290-square-foot home in Nokomis, Florida, to the performance criteria of the U.S. Department of Energy Zero Energy Ready Home (ZERH) program.
Photo courtesy of Habitat for Humanity South Sarasota County
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Even without solar panels, the energy-efficient features of these Habitat for Humanity homes reduce energy costs to about $70 per month, helping to make them more affordable for their homeowners.
Photo courtesy of Habitat for Humanity South Sarasota County
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Deep overhangs, gutters, and site grading help to carry water away from the slab-on-grade foundation. A rain barrel collects some rainwater for irrigation.
Photo courtesy of Habitat for Humanity South Sarasota County
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ENERGY STAR-rated refrigerators and dishwashers help to reduce energy and water use.
Photo courtesy of Habitat for Humanity South Sarasota County
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No-VOC paints and finishes are among the EPA Indoor airPLUS requirements that help to promote healthy indoor air.
Photo courtesy of Habitat for Humanity South Sarasota County
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The hip roof design, concrete block construction, and a sealed attic all help to make the home more storm resistant.
Photo courtesy of Habitat for Humanity South Sarasota County
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Borate-treated roof trusses and concrete walls are among the pest-resistant features of these Florida homes.
Photo courtesy of Habitat for Humanity South Sarasota County
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The wall’s concrete blocks are filled with foam and covered with an interior continuous thermal blanket of rigid foam insulation.
Photo courtesy of Habitat for Humanity South Sarasota County
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The high-efficiency (15 SEER, 8.0 HSPF) central heat pump distributes heating and cooling through an interior comfort distribution system in contrast to the common practice of locating the ducts in unconditioned attics that are like ovens in the summer. A fresh air system uses the comfort distribution system to circulate and filter fresh air; the system is managed via a timer-controlled damper.
Photo courtesy of Habitat for Humanity South Sarasota County
"Our energy costs are lower than ever, but our quality of life is higher."
“The most remarkable thing about living in a DOE-certified home is, even in a hot and humid climate, our DOE-certified home stays cool and dry, giving my family a healthy, comfortable environment. The remarkable thing is that our energy costs are lower than ever, but our quality of life is higher.”
– Homeowner
