Mandalay Homes built this 2,207-square-foot home in Prescott, Arizona, to the performance criteria of the U.S. Department of Energy Zero Energy Ready Home (ZERH) program.

The draught-tolerant landscape includes native plants with drip irrigation controlled by a smart timer that adjusts watering based on local weather conditions. Note that the roof line is continuous. There are no breaks for vents or pipes, so the insulation can be continuous and there are less chances of roof leaks.

Overhangs provide a comfortable outdoor living space while helping to control solar energy that can overheat the house and fade furnishings.

Outdoor living spaces can potentially save energy by reducing the amount of cooling needed indoors.

The home has a high-efficiency two-stage air conditioner with an 18 SEER condenser and a 95% efficient, fully variable, natural gas-fired furnace. All of the home’s comfort equipment, including the insulated ducts, is located in the sealed, conditioned attic. A separately ducted ERV provides continuous fresh air ventilation.

The home uses low- and no-VOC paints, finishes, cabinets, and flooring that meet the requirements of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Indoor airPLUS program.

Water-conserving fixtures and short pipe runs reduce water usage and the amount of energy needed to heat that water.

Advanced framing techniques use less lumber so there is more room in the walls for insulation, while still providing structural integrity.

Framing is treated with borate to discourage termites. Good site water drainage practices, air-sealing around the foundation, and flashings and protective coverings for foundation insulation also help discourage pests.

A separately ducted energy recovery ventilator provides fresh air to the house while removing stale air. The ERV uses a heat exchanger to capture much of the temperature difference between the two air streams to help cool the incoming air.

A never-ending supply of hot water will be provided by an instantaneous water heater that will be installed on this wall. The central location will result in short pipe runs that can help save energy and water by reducing the amount of water that needs to be heated.

A thick layer of spray foam provides a continuous R-25 layer of insulation on the underside of the roof deck, creating a clean, temperate space for the home’s HVAC equipment. Spray foam also fills the home’s walls and, when combined with the R-4 layer of rigid foam installed under the coated OSB sheathing, provides a continuous R-21 thermal blanket around the house.