Phased Deep Retrofits
Together with Florida Power and Light, buildings researchers are learning how energy efficiency in existing U.S. residences can be improved. A total of 60 Florida homes have been retrofitted to receive simple low-cost, pass-through efficiency measures, such as efficient lighting, low-flow shower heads, hot water tank and pipe insulation, and smart power strips. Ten homes received much more extensive retrofits–optimized based on simulations and monitored data–including high efficiency heat pumps, hybrid water heaters, variable speed pool pumps, enhanced ceiling insulation, and ENERGY STAR® appliances. Researchers collected detailed energy end-use data, pre- and post-retrofit.
Selected Publication
Case Studies
Zero Energy Retrofit, Parker Residence: Cocoa Beach, FL
Monitoring of this deep phased retrofit, zero energy home began in November 2010. A a 4.9 kW photovoltaic system offsets energy consumption. Features include white reflective roof, solar hot water heating, replacement of single glazed units to high efficiency solar control windows, exterior insulation over CBS construction, SEER 26 HSPF 12 mini-split AC system, all tile flooring, CFL lighting, whole house fan ventilation, and gas appliances. The 2000 ft2 home is occupied by a family of four.
Description & Data | Publication
Chasar Residence: Cocoa, FL
The Chasar home has provided measured performance since 2000 for a 1992 code-minimum home. Measurements currently include: energy use, ambient, indoor and attic temperature, relative humidity (RH), as well as water heater performance. The home had a white metal roof retrofitted in 2005. Monitoring of the solar water heating system installed in 1999 began in 2010.
Description & Data | Publication
Suggested Publications
- From Energy Guzzler to Near-Zero Energy Home: Lessons from the Phased Deep Retrofit Project
- Phased Retrofits in Existing Homes in Florida Phase I: Shallow and Deep Retrofits
- Phased Retrofits in Existing Homes in Florida Phase II: Shallow Plus Retrofits
- Cost Effectiveness of Home Energy Retrofits in Pre-Code Vintage Homes in the United States
- Measure Guideline: Managing the Drivers of Airflow and Water Vapor Transport in Existing Single-Family Homes