Solar Smart
Dorn’s Solar Smart homes are built to dramatically exceed current State and Federal energy efficiency standards, creating homes 50 to 75 percent more efficient than standard homes. Below is a list of our energy-efficient and healthful living efforts. These are dependent upon the community and floor plan that you choose, please contact a customer associate for further details.
- 2.8-kilowatt Solar Photovoltaic (PV) Power Generation System
- Solar Water Heater to convert sunlight to free electricity
- Argon gas-filled Andersen 100 Series Low E high-efficiency windows
- Sealed Thermal Envelope that radically reduces heating and cooling costs, which are typically 60 to 70% of a homes energy usage.
- The insulation extends up to the roof deck of the home. This allows the duct work to be inside the heated and cooled space14 SEER heating/cooling equipment
- Cellulose recycled blown-in insulation in the exterior walls. (R24 total insulation including exterior foam wrap)
- R38 BATT roof insulation
- Mastic sealed duct work — a flexible, not-toxic sealant that can move with the expansion, contraction and vibration of the duct system components
- Programmable setback thermostats
- Four Compact Fluorescent lights (CFL's)
- Water conserving toilets, faucets and shower heads
- Energy conserving ceiling fansHigh-efficiency appliances, including ENERGY STAR® dishwashers
- Weatherproof air seal protection on all windows, exterior doors, and top plate penetrations
- Fresh air intake and full home ventilation to create an environment that contains healthy fresh air, less dust, fewer odors, and remarkably comfortable temperatures
- Low VOC (volatile organic compounds) carpet and paint
- Non PVC (polyvinyl chloride) flooring
- Utilizing LEED Green Building Principles
- Gold Certification Standards: Green National Association of Home Builders Green Building Guidelines
- Homes dramatically exceed the Dept of Energy's Energy Star Performance Standards. Each home will receive an Energy Star Certificate
- All features are in compliance with the U.S. Department of Energy's [DOE] Building America Program
- TEP Guaranteed Home Certification in all TEP areas
Based on the studies on the Solar Smart homes conducted by the engineers at Tucson Electric Power Company, a Dorn Homes 2500 sq. ft. residence will be approximately 55 to 60% more efficient than a home built with current codes. It could potentially be 70 to 75% more efficient than a home that was built more than five years ago, or older
