We're still here

We haven't given up on building our green home in wonderful Tallahassee. Things slowed down a little bit, but I've got another full time job that has been quite hectic lately.
Heat and Air
This week they are installing the HVAC ductwork and roughing-in the two heat pumps. Our heating and cooling system isn't all that much different that most new construction. We aren't using geothermal or radiant heating (too expensive). But we do have some nice efficient heat pumps. If you don't already know, a heat pump is both an air conditioner and a heater within the same setup. You can get away with one down here in the South, but they just aren't as popular up North. That's because the outside condenser unit runs for both the A/C and the heat. It can get pretty cold up there and the heat pumps aren't as efficient when it gets really, really cold.

Anyway, the efficiency of air conditioners is rated by their seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER). As of January 2006, all residential air conditioners sold in the United States must have a SEER of at least 13. ENERGY STAR qualified Central Air Conditioners must have a SEER of at least 14. We chose to go with two units, each 15 SEER. For reference, our townhome in Northern Virginia had a unit with a SEER of about 10. It was on it's last leg and it ate up the electicity. If you have a unit that's not too old, don't fall into the trap of thinking that you have to upgrade your existing unit. You would actually be better off properly maintaining your existing one until its useful life is over.

We also are getting a separate small unit to heat and cool the rec room over the garage. We are using a ductless mini split heat pump. It's a 17 SEER unit made by Mitsubishi called Mr. Slim. Not to be confused with this 80s character.

I've heard a lot of good things about these models. But don't take my word for it. Here, watch this amazing 8 minute video.



What makes this video amazing is that it takes 8 minutes for them to convince you to buy one of these models. Sheesh!

I'll continue tomorrow on our home's air system.