Home Innovation’s research for government and industry clients focuses on providing energy-efficiency solutions that integrate structural, thermal, and moisture performance in a holistic building science approach. Through our extensive range of capabilities, we develop methods to achieve superior energy efficiency, durability, and comfort for specific climate regions in a cost-effective and environmentally responsible manner.
To determine the most cost-effective solutions with the greatest energy savings we conduct energy usage simulations for homes in specific climates in parallel with a comprehensive cost analysis. We also explore related issues such as durability, indoor environmental quality, and comfort to determine the most marketable combination of features.
Beyond maximizing insulation, our experts analyze building envelope design to address air leakage, moisture performance, and structural considerations that can all factor into energy optimization.
We evaluate the structural performance of energy-efficient designs. We also evaluate disaster-resistant solutions for high-hazard areas, develop design methodologies for innovative products and systems, and assist with obtaining code acceptance.
Our research often assesses the durability of various cladding and wall systems by analyzing moisture performance of wall systems through computer simulations, laboratory testing, controlled outdoor evaluations, and monitoring of occupied homes.
After analyzing the building envelope, the next step in the optimization journey is to determine the best way to provide heating, ventilation, and air conditioning. Our HVAC research goes beyond equipment efficiencies to include optimized duct layouts, correctly sized equipment, and determination of the best equipment to install.
Our research also includes optimal hot water heating and distribution systems, sprinkler systems, and solar hot water heating solutions to optimize energy-efficient home designs.
Solar options – whether photovoltaic electricity production or thermal hot water systems – can help to achieve net-zero energy performance.
The best way to ensure the effectiveness of energy-efficient solutions is through short-term performance testing and long-term monitoring, such as air leakage tests, HVAC system tests, duct leakage tests, and energy monitoring. Whenever Home Innovation partners with a builder to construct a demonstration home to validate the performance of research improvements, we measure and track all performance attributes that matter to homeowners.