what makes the new model home Net Zero Ready?
Our new model home in the Trussler West community was built as the first Net Zero new build home in the Waterloo Region. Designated as Net Zero, this home can produce as much energy as the average family consumes, using products and technology at the forefront of innovation. It is 50-60% better than the standard building code, which is good for the planet but even better for your family. Learn how our Net Zero model home contributes to energy efficiency.
dual-fuel furnace & heat pump
A dual-fuel furnace is a hybrid system that pairs an electric heat pump and a gas furnace. It functions based on the need to maximize efficiency by heating/ cooling the home year-round. Depending on the temperature and season, it automatically switches between the furnace and the heat pump. During warmer months, the heat pump works like an A/c. When the temperature takes a significant dip outside, the furnace takes over by converting fuel into heat.
energy recovery ventilation system (ERV)
An ERV in the model home acts as the lung of the home year-round. It replaces stale indoor air with fresh outside air while controlling humidity levels. Since the ERV adjusts its operation depending on the weather, the load on the heat pump and dehumidifier is reduced and helps you save energy. This will further add to your comfort as maintaining humidity level avoids static electricity, sore throats and other discomforts caused by dry air. Hence, you get a cleaner, healthier home.
home monitoring system
A Home Monitoring System is an upgraded feature that tracks energy consumption in real-time. It pinpoints factors such as which appliances are consuming electricity, how much it costs, and when they turn on and off. It will identify by showing you daily, weekly, and monthly trends or a billing cycle to save money on energy so that you can use electricity mindfully.
energy efficiency through a proper water system
Your water usage also plays an essential part in achieving energy efficiency. We do not want you to miss a single factor that can help you save on your monthly bills, and that’s why the water system in this model home contributes toward energy efficiency. Let’s understand how the system works.
drain water heat recovery
Take an example of warm water running from the shower that flows down the waste drain. The incoming cold water comes through a copper spiral tube wrapped around a copper section in this waste drain. When the warm water flows down, a Drain Water Heat Recovery system captures lost heat and uses it to preheat cold water entering the copper section. By capturing the heat from wastewater, the amount of energy needed to preheat the water and the load on your tankless water heater reduces significantly. That means hot water will pour instantly, saving energy and your monthly utility bills.
tankless water heater
The model home has a tankless water heater that is 25% more energy-efficient and is suitable for you, your wallet, and the planet. But how does it work without being able to store water? A tankless water heater uses an electric element to warm the incoming water as soon as you open the tap and stops heating it when you turn it off. Hence it uses energy only when you turn on the tap, plus it is less bulky and lasts longer. Now you can enjoy unlimited instant hot water!
low flow plumbing (toilets, sinks, showerheads, faucets)
We do not realize the amount of water wasted in our house from toilets, sinks, faucets, etc. However, this home’s low flow plumbing system lets you save water and energy. Don’t worry – your water pressure will still be excellent, and you won’t be able to tell the difference. The plumbing fixture uses a high-pressure technique to create the same water pressure while limiting the amount of water expelled per minute. It will conserve water by using less per minute, lowering water bills and energy usage.
it’s all about airtightness
Building an air-tight envelope is one of the most significant parts of building an energy-efficient home, as it keeps the temperature in the home consistent throughout the year. Improved insulation and proper moisture level help reduce heat loss, save energy, and reduce utility bills. So, let’s look at the components that make this model home air-tight enough.
wall systems
The wall system in this home consists of three primary elements. Such a system reduces the energy needed to heat and cool the home.
- 1 1/2″ thick codeboard on exterior walls provides resistance to heat loss
- Higher R-Value of batt and blown-in insulation in walls and ceilings for better soundproofing
- 10″ thick basement walls result in a tighter, more comfortable home
insulation under slab
This model home is built energy-efficient right from its foundation. A 2″ layer of rigid foam insulation is installed under the slab and covered with a vapour barrier. The under slab insulation ensures the foundation is not a source of heat loss. It keeps away unwanted moisture leaving the basement to stay warm, dry, and cozy.
aerobarrier
AeroBarrier is the most advanced air sealing technology used throughout this home to control air leakage and keep away unwanted moisture. Once the drywall was up, we used an aerosol sealant and a blower door to pressurize and seal gaps in the building envelope that were not visible to the human eye. It also results in better indoor air quality for a healthier, more durable and comfortable home. With an air-tight home, you can save money on heating and cooling costs.
triple pane windows
The triple pane windows in the model home consist of three sheets of glass, two air spaces filled with argon gas, and low-E coatings that separate the inside of the home from the outside. The double insulation provides better thermal control and comfortable humidity levels. You can enjoy extra peace by reducing sound transmission and more consistent temperatures with just as much sunlight during changing seasons. The bonus is a better-insulated home, and HVAC equipment will run more efficiently and last longer.
solar panels, battery, reinforced roof trusses
Solar panels installed on the roof of the model home convert light energy from the sun to usable electricity, which powers the home and appliances. Extra energy generated is saved in the battery bank and pulled when needed in this home. When the battery is full, electricity is sent back to the grid for a credit against the utility bill. This ensures that there will always be enough energy to power your lifestyle! This renewable and carbon-free energy source to power the home is better for you and the planet.
led lighting
Did you know? LED lighting uses approximately 75% less electricity than regular lightbulbs. It lasts 25x longer, resulting in substantial energy savings and less waste. Because LED bulbs produce light using light-emitting diodes. There are no toxic ingredients means these lights are better for you and the environment.
model features + finishes
Our Net Zero model home highlights distinct features and finishes that come standard. This also includes ENERGY STAR® qualified products. The selection process takes place at our award-winning Design Studio.
Foyer Area
Starting with the foyer area, which is the first thing anyone sees when entering. It draws attention to the 10′ taller ceilings, further taking the eyes toward the floating staircase featuring factory finished stained maple tread, riser + stringer with glass. The newel post pairs with a maple square top, flat black clamps, and contemporary rails stained with 408 low sheens.
Great Room
The great room highlights two main features – the Serene 60″ zero clearance fireplace with a direct vent gas and the interior black framed windows making a bold design statement and becoming a focal point in the room.
Kitchen
There is always a feature element in your space, like this waterfall countertop in the contemporary kitchen showcasing a visual interest. We love this modern and dramatic way to feature a beautiful quartz finish.
Adding an extra luxury touch are the push cabinets. It functions with a push latch installed inside the cabinets that pulls the door open. The open shelves give some fresh, modern vibes to the space.
Mud & Laundry Room
The mud and laundry room features open shelves for extra storage space. In the mudroom, it allows you to see where your things are.
Walk-in Closet
The walk-in closet in the primary bedroom comes with a built-in, featuring a shelf area, drawers, and hanging rods. The plenty of open space allows you to personalize it with your style, making the closet look organized.
Luxury Ensuite
There is always that one talk of the town, and for this model home, it is the luxury ensuite with a freestanding soaker, stacked shower tile, heated floors, and a castle grey floating vanity. The luxury ensuite is straight out of our dreams coming to reality.
Basement
The basement highlights the 8′ 11″ taller ceilings, large windows that welcome natural light and Macrame Escape Bali carpet.
are you ready to build for the future with Activa?
While these high-performance homes may seem incredibly techy, there is no change in lifestyle required to own one. Check out our future communities page on Activa’s website, and don’t forget to register for our email list.