Sundog Energy Conservation
In July 2007, we started to assemble the company now known as SUNDOG Places. We quickly discovered that the topic of "Energy Independence" transcends the multi-generational team members that we have gathered. It has since become a key component in our mission. Beginning at SUNDOG's inception, we have become passionate about helping our country start down the path of using less energy.
At SUNDOG Places, we understand that reducing our carbon footprint is a balance of art and science. We see it as a journey-- not something to be figured out in a board room. Although some of us may not witness many of the long-term rewards for seeking energy independence, when we leave the field or office each day we can rest assured that we have made a difference in our country's future ability to be energy independent.
It is likely that sometime over the next ten years the technology will be readily available and cost-effective enough to build homes that produce at least as much energy as they use on a monthly basis. However, this development starts with builders choosing to understand how to employ the materials and building methods available to them today.
Our pledge to our clients is to sort continuously through all the "green" noise in the marketplace and incorporate products and technologies that allow us to successfully complete the journey toward being an energy independent country on the housing front.
Energy Use In Homes
The building envelope is crucial in reducing energy waste-- it influences 45% of a home's energy use (Space Heating 34% and Electric-A/C 11%).
We have implemented immediate changes in the building envelope.
a) We use window and door units that meet or exceed the Energy Star requirements for the climate zone in which we're building.
b) We upgrade the insulation and ventilation packages for the climate we are building in as recommended in the Energy Star program and follow the recommended inspections during the construction process of the home.
c) We use passive solar heating and cooling techniques involving the design and use of the roofing materials and roof overhangs appropriate to the longitude and latitude of the geographic location.
d) We make use of passive solar gain through the orientation of homes on lots when it is available to us.
e) We meet or exceed the Energy Star HVAC equipment, installation techniques as specified for the climate zone in which we're building.
We view the choice of efficient lighting and appliances as essential, given that they make up 42% of a typical home's energy use.
a) We offer standard as many Energy Star appliances as possible. We will stay abreast of ever-changing requirements and adapt accordingly.
b) We include ceiling fan rough-ins in all living areas and bedrooms.
c) Energy Star rated lighting fixtures where appropriate in our homes.
Please note, Energy Star does not rate ovens or stoves.
Heating Water uses 13% of the typical home's energy.
a) We will offer as standard Energy Star rated water heaters in our homes.
Continuous Steps in Sundog Places' Journey Toward Energy Independence
At SUNDOG Places, we plan to continue focusing on ways to build a more energy-efficient, healthy building envelope for each climate in which we work. Our experience in the homebuilding industry is that the vast majority of builders have not accomplished this, and until they do, most other elements of an energy efficient home are a waste of time and money.
We will continue to investigate how to utilize passive solar gain through various methods, particularly the use of mass walls. These passive techniques are powerful, and yet they rarely get the attention they deserve.