DFW Solar Home Tour

Date/Time
10/06/2012
10:00 am - 4:00 pm

Tour Host
North Texas Renewable Energy Group
Mellen West
Phone: 2147075161
www.dfwsolarhometour.org

Registration Location
Neukranz House
3309 Rampart Drive
Plano, TX 75074
United States

Tour Fee
Free

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Solar Home Host Sites 2012
Tour date: Saturday, October 6th, 2012 Visitor’s hours: 10am – 4pm (unless otherwise specified)
Neukranz House
3309 Rampart Drive
Plano, TX 75074

Renewable energy features:
8.1 kW roof-top grid-tied solar PV system installed in 2010 – provides about one-third of household electrical needs. Solar system leased with help of local utility subsidy and federal tax rebates, resulting in $21 per month positive net cash flow from first day of operation.
Picture is here: http://www.pbase.com/neukranz/image/120723973

Green Features:
* Real time energy performance monitoring system continuously verifies structure and equipment performances are per manufacturer/installer claims, identifies areas to improve, anticipates impending failures when repairs can be made more cost effectively, and facilitates cost/benefit analysis for future contemplated projects. Details are at:
http://www.welserver.com/WEL0043

*Extensive home automation system assists with comfort, efficiency, safety and security.
*Extremely efficient (24 SEER / 5 COP) geothermal heat pumps installed in 2007 – one mile of underground pipe in front yard, and no outside equipment to wear out. Picture is here: http://www.pbase.com/neukranz/image/84286063
* HVAC efficiency further enhanced with four independent zone air distribution, variable-speed air handlers (also improves humidity control), and two-stage compressors.
* Sheet metal ductwork (inside the attic) insulated with R-8 foil backed insulation (supply and return); ductwork seams sealed.
* Programmable thermostats adjust at different times of the day, saving money and reducing energy use at peak times of day.
* All lights are Compact Fluorescent Lamps – no incandescents are used.
* Two speed pool pump motors to substantially lower power consumption.
* Minimal windows on hot west side; large windows on north and east walls and open floor plan provide ample day lighting.
* Windows are double pane with thermally broken anodized aluminum frames. All have thermally efficient shades to block out hot day time heat.
* Large ceiling fans in every room, prevent air stratification and reduce demand on HVAC system.
* Low flow plumbing fixtures.

Host Comments: East Plano located 3400 sq. ft single story residence on shaded one-half acre lot, constructed in 1992. This home utilizes natural light and an open floor plan including a large porch to maximize space, functionality and spaciousness. Located near public greenbelts, parks, trail system and mass transit. $47 per month average heating/cooling cost in spite of Dallas hot climate and using electricity for heating.