The owners wanted to build a home that would have low long-term costs, be comfortable, and modern. They decided to build a passive solar home because it met these criteria. They find the home to be very comfortable, and are happy with their choice. They also chose very energy efficient appliances, and used recycled or very durable materials where they could. For instance, they used HardiePlank siding on their building exterior, as it is very durable and shouldn’t have to be replaced as long as the owners occupy the building.
The owners decided to complement their passive solar home with a ground source heat pump. This heat pump is connected to a well system (horizontal wasn’t available given the rocky ground) which is more efficient, and a forced air heating system, which is more effective for the size and design of the home. The heat pump also preheats their domestic hot water.
Other features include a rain barrel catchment system, to save on well water use for watering plants, and a propane generator back up system. The home is rated as an Energuide 89 home, far exceeding the R-2000 value of 80 for most modern, efficient homes. They have 72.8 hectares (180 acres) of land, mostly forested, as well as a barn for horses. They use a solar powered electric fence. They bought extra land after building the home to protect it from being clear-cut.
