Residential Mechanical Systems
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We are putting together Specifications for a residence here in Austin and are looking for suggestions on high value, ease of use and energy efficient mechanical systems/technology. We are also interested in referrals for sophisticated sub-contractors in these respects.
Primarily we are interested in suggestions for Heating Ventilation and Air Conditioning Systems/Units, plastic DWV systems and Hot Water Heaters. Advice regarding specific units or manufacturers for our Hot-Humid Hygrothermal zone are also welcome. We are also interested in hearing from anyone using "greywater" collection systems or roof mounted solar units.
This is going to be the proverbial "machine for living in" so we are also interested in "ergonomic" electrical switches, methods to track energy use etc.
Cost is a factor so we would like to line up as much in advance of bid phase as possible.
Feel free to contact us off-list for any suggestions/cautions.
Most Sincerely,
Jonathan Chertok
Universal Joint Design Associates
Jonathan Chertok. Principal
AIA Associate
Austin, Texas 1 512 407 9628
http://www.universaljointdesign.com
Development + Design + Construction
Any reputable HVAC and plumbing firm will be able to do this for you. Most are willing to discuss this sort of thing early on in the design process, even if they aren't the ones you hire. They are the professionals well versed in this arena, make use of their expertise. All you need to do is discuss performance criteria and let them worry about the rest.
Alex,
you wouldn't happen to be the owner of the new house that MJ Neal designed on Live oak would you? I noticed geothermal wells back near the alley at that project the other day.
Mark Meyer
Previously Alex Wolfe wrote:
Hi Jonathon.
I think one of the most overlooked technologies for super efficient HVAC has got to be geothermal. The technology is so incredibly compelling that it boggles the mind that it's not used in every new home. You can read more about how it works at waterfurnace.com.
One of the really cool things about geothermal is that during the summer it can provide your hot water as a byproduct of cooling your home.
I have several relatives who put geothermal in their homes, and are extremely pleased with the performance and efficiency. And now I am also installing a geothermal system in my new home in the Bouldin neighborhood. If you're looking for a local contractor, check out AET (http://aetinc.us).
If you're looking for a method to track electrical utilization, you might be interested in "The Energy Detective". You can read more about that at http://www.theenergydetective.com.
-Alex
Here's a fresh suggestion. TES off-peak cooling as in ice storage. You've got a company right there in Texas that has a commercialized solution that looks to be plug'n'play with a standard HVAC installation, and moreover with incentives it seems to be affordable.
Trinity Thermal's Ice Cycle
http://www.trinity-thermal.com/
Hi Alex, Scott, Mark.
On the money. Much thanks.
That "energy detective" link is something I've been wanting to do for quite awhile.
Very happy to see someone decided it was worth realizing.
Again thanks for the links and info.
- Jonathan
Universal Joint Design Associates
Jonathan Chertok. Principal
AIA Associate
Austin, Texas 1 512 407 9628
http://www.universaljointdesign.com
Development + Design + Construction
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