Bill Spohn, the founder of TruTech Tools, isn’t just in the business of creating instruments to test home efficiency – he’s passionate about building comfortable and sustainable living spaces. To turn those ideals into reality, Spohn and his wife Marilyn decided to design and construct their dream home – a haven that prioritized energy efficiency and a healthy living environment.
The result is a stunning 4,480-square-foot solar-powered net-zero home nestled just outside of Pittsburgh. This personalized haven wasn’t built on-site in the traditional sense, though. Instead, the Spohns opted for modular construction, a method known for its efficiency, reduced waste, and meticulous quality control. The home itself is comprised of four modules built in a factory setting, ensuring each section met their exacting standards for high-performance construction. These modules include 2×6 stud walls with superior insulation, and air-sealed sheathing wrapped in durable vinyl siding.
Passive House-certified windows are designed for ultimate energy efficiency. Triple-paned with argon gas filling, they provide excellent insulation while still allowing for passive solar heat gain in the winter. To prevent overheating during summer months, the windows are accompanied by sunshades and motorized blinds for customized sun control. Low-VOC finishes were used throughout the home’s interior, contributing to a healthy and comfortable living environment.
The Spohns opted for a Dettson two-ton air-source heat pump with four zones to provide heating and cooling throughout the house. Naturally, since they wanted to ensure they always have the best indoor air quality possible, the home features a CERV2!
To truly achieve a net-zero home, the Spohns needed a renewable energy source to offset their energy consumption. The answer came in the form of a 12-kW solar array with 32 panels, installed by a local vendor specializing in sustainable design and construction. This solar array generates most of the home’s power needs, and any excess energy produced is fed back into the grid, resulting in credits on their electricity bill. With their meticulous attention to detail and focus on sustainable features, the Spohns have crafted a beautiful and efficient home that treads lightly on the environment.
Specifications
- Size: 4840 sq ft
- Bed / Bath: 3 / 2.5
- Heating & Cooling: 2-ton Air Source Heat Pump
- Ventilation: CERV2
- Energy Generation: 12kW Solar PV
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