Date: February 28th, 2003
Project Name: Rocky Hill Cohousing
Subject: Heating systems and building envelope considerations


1. Questions and issues for consideration are as follows:
• Does RHC want to retain the space heating option by accepting the upgrading of the exterior wall insulation in the base specification?
• Which heating system type does RHC want to be included as the “base” condition?

2. Related questions and issues:
• Which type of domestic water heater (DHW) does RHC want to be included as the “base” condition?
• Which type of ventilation system does RHC want to be included as the “base” condition?

3. Space heating concept —
A. Basic concept: Use a single heater located in the first floor living space to provide heat for the entire first and second floors. Use some of the $3,500+ savings over a conventional system to upgrade the exterior walls and window insulation.

B. Why consider this at all?:
• It supports a “green” agenda — environmental consciousness.
• Fuel savings (see below) — an “insurance policy” for an uncertain future.
• Least first cost — $2,000 to $3,000 depending upon basement utilization.

C. Challenges associated:
• The space heating option depends upon the exterior wall insulation up-grade, and on improving thermal performance of second floor windows, for its acceptability — and, whilst window performance can be addressed individually, it is NOT feasible to offer the exterior wall insulation up-grade as an option in the standard package of options (SPO).
• The acceptability of the space heating option depends upon individual expectations of temperature differences between upper and lower floor ...

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Envelope Enhancement with Space Heating

EESH Handout

Rocky Hill - Heating Systems and Envelope Considerations

Rocky Hill - Heating Options

Rocky Hill - Shifting Investment to Space Heating