Where the #@$%& Did THAT Come from?
I haven't done a LetsBlogOff post in a while, but when I saw the topic for today's blogoff, I knew I wouldn't be able to resist, so here goes. I haven't done a LetsBlogOff post in a while, but when…
The Energy Vanguard Blog
Combustion Safety Rule #1: Remove Exhaust Gases from House
So, I was out on a field test with a new HERS rater the other day, and we took a look up in the attic. The scuttle hole is right next to the closet where the natural gas water heater…
The Ductopus or the Centipede – Which HVAC Duct System Is Better?
I've been thinking lately that I might be in danger of losing all my friends in the HVAC business because I've been a bit heavy on showing examples of what they get wrong but not so good at showing what…
No More “Damn Architects!” – The Case for Integrated Design
In 1997, I helped my parents design and build their home. Early in the construction process, I had suggested that the house be built 25 feet back from where we originally had it planned, and that the fireplace be moved…
Are Freedom and Building Science Incompatible?
Recently I got a short email from someone that read: Recently I got a short email from someone that read: “Just like you to know I'm glad you aren't in charge. If you stood between me and my freedoms of…
Keep Out! – One Place NEVER to Put HVAC System Ducts
I had lunch yesterday with a friend who's an HVAC designer and home energy rater in North Carolina, and he mentioned the idea of separating HVAC design from HVAC contractors. For that to happen, though, HVAC contractors first have to…
How Hard Will It Be for Builders to Meet the New Georgia Energy Code?
As you may have heard, we have a new energy code here in Georgia that's one of the most progressive in the country. One of the new requirements, which to my knowledge no other state has, is that all new…
Should Flex Duct Be Banned by Green Building Programs?
It started on Twitter the other day. I posted the photo you see to the left, and a discussion on flex duct ensued. One person, who's been known for taking strong stances now and then, saw it and said, "Flex…
A Green Home – It’s Just Good Design
What makes a Green Home green? Is it the bamboo floors? Maybe it’s the low-e windows or the extra insulation in the walls? What about a high efficiency heating and cooling system? Or maybe it's a plaque by your front…
The Value of Training in Building Science – Another Perspective
Guest Post by Sean Lintow, who has been in three classes I taught (HERS, ENERGY STAR Version 3, and Advanced HVAC for Raters) and uses Energy Vanguard Energy Ratings as his HERS provider. Guest Post by Sean Lintow, who has…