Recently a good friend of mine, Justin Alpert, AIA, was recommended and received his architectural license. I truly congratulate him and like to share a portion of a note that he had send out in gratitude to his friends and colleagues that helped him get there.
It is particularly interesting to me, to see the detailed explanation of what it takes to become a licensed Architect; something that most people are not aware of. It is one of the most intense and time consuming career paths you can imagine.
Consider the seriousness and effort of your licensed professional the next time you have the opportunity to select an Architect for your project…
“For those that know what it takes to be an architect, you may skip this next paragraph. But for those that don’t know, here is the process:
The first requirement for architectural registration is earning a professional degree from one of the 123 colleges that has an architecture program accredited by the National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB). A typical architecture program is a 5 year program. I believe I had to earn about 171 credits. I think a typical non-architecture degrees is about 120. The next step is the Intern Development program (IDP). Through the National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB) I had to complete total 5,600 hours of specific work experience within 16 different categories, including programming, construction documents, and project management. Once I fulfilled NCARB’s IDP requirements, I became eligible to start taking the Architectural Registration Exams (ARE). When I started taking them, there were 9 exams; Pre-design, General Structures, Lateral Forces, Mechanical and Electrical systems, materials & methods, Construction Documents, site planning, building planning, and building technology. Each one is a 4 to 6 hour exam. Once the first exam is passed, you have 5 years to pass all of them. If an exam is failed, you must wait 6 months to retake the exam. Since licensing is done by each individual State, exam scores are sent directly to a State. For me, it was Florida. In June of this year I passed my final exam. The Florida Licensing Board reviewed my college transcript, my IDP transcript, and my passing exam scores and approved me for my license.
With my initial License, most states, including Massachusetts have a reciprocity process, where through NCARB, my records are submitted to another state (MA in this case) along with applications and fees, and the State reviews all the records. Before you can submit to other states, you need to be approved for an NCARB Certificate, which requires forms, fees, review of credentials and background check. Once I received my NCARB Certificate, I applied for a MA state License.
Tuesday night the MA Board of Registration of Architects met and approved me for a license. Today I was issued my license number, making it official. 17 long years to reach this one goal. For some people, this process is easy and maybe their license doesn’t mean so much to them. But for me, it has been a constant challenge. Maybe that is part of the reason why this means so so much to me.”
PS: the “AIA” stands for American Institute of Architects, and can only be used by a licensed Architect who has also joined this organization. It is a sure indicator that the individual is indeed licensed…
Insulation is one of the most important aspects to consider when looking at the energy performance and potential savings for your project. Especially on residential projects, the standard code required insulation is quite insufficient and leaves much room for improvement.
When thinking about improved energy improvement and especially the introduction of alternative or renewable energy, insulation is key as most of the energy is lost at the envelope of the building: the roof and the walls. If a building has an energy consumption of 100 units and produces 60 units with alternative energy, there are still 40 units to be paid each month.
Insulation, very high efficient appliances and HVAC as well energy star rated doors and windows can bring the unit use to 50. Not the same 60 units created actually pay back the owner… insulation is the key to make this equation work.
Beyond energy savings, choosing the right insulation may also contribute to better air quality. Even though most of the particles find their way into the air during construction, some insulation, such as batt insulation used for energy or sound barriers, can easily be released through simple repairs or even installation of picture nails and hooks.
There are so many options these days to look at insulation for the building. Bonded logic produces a series called Ultra Touch, which uses post-consumer blue jeans. Not just great insulation, but also bonus points for recycled content. Blow in cellulose insulation is formaldehyde and VOC free while diverting 300 tons of denim per month away form landfills. The R value can go up 30. Not a bad option (www.bondedlogic.com/ultratouch-cotton.htm).
Another fully sustainable alternative would be recycled wool, loose-fill insulation, such as the oregano shepherd line that provides up to r-4 per inch (www.oregonshepher.com).
There are more sustainable alternatives without going all the way to fully recycled or reclaimed materials. Formaldehyde free fiberglass comes in the traditionally familiar batt and roll variety with values from 11-38. Rigid foam panels also come in less toxic options, as does spray in insulation. Johns Manville and Owens Corning now offer environmental lines of product.
Personally I prefer a spray in system such as Icynene, Greenfiber or Certainteed. These systems use soy based or cellulose blows insulation that not just is easy t install and will literally fill the very last crack, but it also lets the access material be recycled on the spot, virtually eliminating any waste during construction.
It is important to seal all cracks, even if they are only a fraction of an inch. A small gap next to the insulation may appear minimal, but consider adding all those little cracks up to one large opening. This hole is typically about 3 square feet. Would you leave a 3 square feet hole in your wall? Probably not, so seal it. Knauf is a good option for these cracks as are other weatherization techniques.
When tackling your next project or upgrade, think of the insulation and realize quick savings in your energy bill. For further questions, contact your design professional. Sebastian Eilert Architecture. 786.556.3118 www.SebastianEilert.com
It is with great pleasure that I continue to lecture on how to green your home and business, provide workshops on green building certification and continue teaching about contemporary sustainable design at the University of Miami.
Still, I frequently get the same question when noting that my architectural business focuses on sustainable design: What is that… and what does it mean?
We read about greening this and saving the planet in that way, how to recycle your plastic bottle, use your own bags for groceries and change a light bulb to save energy. The publications and articles about “green” are plenty and stretch across a wide variety of sectors; real estate, fashion, construction, food & wine and many more. Still there remain many people out there, that are not sure what this trend all means and why and how it affects them.
Well, it is not a trend and it will most certainly affect you and your children. The words may be trendy and will likely change over
time, but the meaning remains valid. So here I offer a basic introduction to the topic from my perspective.
What is green design and sustainable building? …do I paint my house green to be a green building? …is it all about energy savings? …does it have to be certified?
Sustainability is the basis of green or better sustainable design and construction. Sustainability being defined as “meets the resource needs of current generations, without compromising those of future generations.” It depends on where you look, that might be one or seven generations, but the principal remains the same. The construction industry, when considering material harvesting and manufacturing through design and construction to operations and maintenance is probably the largest consumer of resources; including water, energy, natural resources and generation of waste. In order to be sustainable, the industry must
change to incorporate better practices that are less harmful to the environment and reduce the need of resources. This is the foundation of sustainable design and construction.
To make this work however, something else must be considered. A multitude of factors must be in balance for these changes to be
effective and permanent. In the industry we call this the “Triple Bottom Line”.
Think of it as a three legged stool. All three legs must be stable, in order for someone to sit on it… same with the following principals:
Environmental considerations: Doing the right thing for the environment; creating healthier environments to live and work, reduce the strain on natural areas and resources.
Economical considerations: We have to make a living, so there needs to be a reasonable profit involved under the current market economy that we live in.
Social considerations: The people at large must be able to use it and be comfortable using it. It must serve the welfare of the general public and it must be accepted culturally.
Take energy for example, specifically Photovoltaic’s. The idea is not new. But when first created and installed, the inventors created odd looking structures that were not socially accepted: they had the right idea to save money on energy and reduce their environmental impact; but the social factor prevented them from becoming main stream and make a lasting impact…
Now think that you can do business and make a profit by doing the right thing and create something beautiful and lasting… that is what sustainable designers strive to do!
Interested in more information or a presentation? Want to start your sustainable project or have questions about it? Feel free to contact me for more help. Sebastian Eilert, AIA. Sebastian Eilert Architecture, Inc. – a Transforming Architecture company. 786.556.3118
Recently I was asked a simple question, at least a simple question for a practicing architect and designer: What is your favorite building in Miami?
Immediately a number of structures came to mind, none of which I actually really liked. Worse, I could not think of a single building that either embodies something spectacular from a design perspective or truly outstanding from its integration into use and site. How would I choose the one building that I would be proud to put my seal of approval on?
Next, I thought about a possible witty or funny response, but most of the structures that I have been involved with as principal of Sebastian Eilert Architecture were custom-made or purpose-driven and thus really must be considered very subjectively and would likely fail as Miami’s best building in any other persons view.
Now there are many examples of recent buildings, as well as a pool of historic structures, that have many features that are appropriate for our climate, passed the test of time and embody a spirit of good design. So was I to focus on choice of materials such as residual Dade County Pine, Coral Rock features and other environmentally preferred materials? What about good site placement and integration into the city’s fabric? After all, no building alone should overpower its content and neighboring environment. Or should I look into the historic integration of solar technologies, natural ventilation and landscaping choices for water savings? Then there is the workmanship of the contractor. After all, we architects are generally noted for “only” imagining things, when it is the contractor that will bring our ideas to life…a good contractor equals a good project.
Regardless, there are too many variables at play to truly make a singular statement and case for Miami’s best building and my list of good examples slowly grew. Still, the other side of the ledger far outweighs the good buildings, but there are numerous to be had.
I also recalled that I was part of the AIA Miami’s effort to compose a book of Miami’s architecture and remembered that the list composed and typology was indeed vast. There are so many great examples ranging from residences, to city halls (Hialeah, for example) to airport hangers. Renowned architects from Alfred Browning Parker to Hilario Candela have contributed high quality design for decades and a number of younger spirited individuals are making their mark today, such as Chad Oppenheim, Maricarmen Martinez of Upstairs Studio, Max Strang and, yours truly, Sebastian Eilert of Sebastian Eilert Architecture.
In the end I try to minimize my design perspective and focus on sustainable issues, and like to offer the following list, in no particular order or any claim for it to be complete:
- Village of Pinecrest, Pinecrest Garden Lower bathroom: Yes, one of my buildings, but noted here because I have had numerous positive feedback about how the new structure blends into the site and appears to have been there from the start of the park. Integration into the environment at its best. Thank you!
- Marine Stadium: This iconic Miami structure is currently fighting to be preserved and keep its place as part of Miami’s history as well as earn a future spot! Join www.MarineStadium.org to help ensure its survival.
- Old Miami High: Miami’s first high school now preserved for many generations to enjoy.
- M+M Residence: the home of Maricarmen Martinez, owner of Upstairs Studio is a fantastic example of contemporary residential design based in mid century principals and incorporating many sustainable features, materials and systems, such as PV to offset 60%+ of the FPL bill. It was a pleasure to assist in obtaining the well deserved LEED certification.
- The Biltmore Hotel: This wonderful Coral Gables icon is a simple masterpiece of its time and anyone who has stayed, dined or simply visited knows why…
- Coral Gables City Hall: Understanding the original designed master plan of downtown Coral Gables, provides an alternative perspective on its orientation and part of the grid that has been lost in recent development. Regardless, the building maintains its charm and importance for the City Beautiful.
- The Bacardi Building: Love the stairs!, and who can pass by the elevation without noting and appreciating the deep blue mural.
- Vizcaya: The original party house by the bay. Waterfront, pristine and well maintained garden and still in use today. I strongly recommend to attend one of their signature events (4th of July, Halloween and New Years Eve): there is no other party in Miami that can evoke the original spirit of its early residents.
What is your favorite building? Leave a comment and share…
SEA is proud to have completed another great kitchen upgrade. The home of Mr. Bill Murphy along historic South Miami avenue built in the 1950’s was the target and provided the grounds for the latest completion.
View of kitchen - before
The original kitchen was nestled in the front of the house separated by a saloon style door. Adjacent to the kitchen was a partial laundry and storage area that also held the water heater and lead out to the utility patio and daytime home for Mr. Murphy’s pups!
Murphy living/dining room - before
The home features an amazing showcase of solid wood products that have been partially installed with the original design of the house and were also added on by previous owners. The amazing warmth of this material were the inspiration for the renovation and color scheme for the renovation.
The design included the removal of the common wall between the kitchen and living room to open up the feel of the compact home. Extending the counter to double serve as a breakfast area, and replace a small cramped table inside the kitchen, as well as to tie the kitchen into the open space for entertaining also brings natural light to the rest of the living dining area. The project also removed a large A/C duct chase that then exposed the amazing clerestory windows and further illuminates the room naturally.
Murphy kitchen - after
The new kitchen pushed out the laundry across the utility courtyard and replaced the clunky water heater with a on demand heater, perfect for the use of the household.
The kitchen then received a new terrazzo floor to keep it easy to clean. Colors form the existing wood and new cabinets were used in the terrazzo.
The new cabinets by Armando Garcia Custom Cabinets Inc. are a delight and have been installed to the highest satisfaction of Mr. Murphy. Appliances are Thermador and Bosch and the counter is Ceasarstone with a glass tile backsplash. Of course non VOC paints and sealants have been used in the project throughout.
Murphy living room - after
Ready to tackle your own kitchen? www.SebastianEilert.com
Filed under: Air Quality, Building knowledge, Construction and Permits, Energy Efficiency, Materials
Doors and windows do more than just bring natural light into our homes. They offer a wonderful opportunity to clean out the inside air and enjoy the lovely weather, especially in times like these, when the South Florida winter actually allows for us to do so.
Often I hear in conversation when the temperatures drop that friends run home and open the windows to get a fresh breeze and escape the air conditioned air for a few days or weeks.
Door and windows indeed serve many purposes. There is the connection to the outside as noted with air and light, they provide security to keep unwanted intruders and critters out of the home and they do significantly affect the energy consumption of your space.
A good roof with ample insulation and other external finishes do come first, but the next line of defense are the doors and windows. These are typically the areas where we can control the amount of air moving between the inside and the outside. During hot summer month heat easily leaks through the crevasses and raises the overall amount of inside air to be cooled. Proper installation or weatherization is key to ensure that these much appreciated openings do not contribute to your energy bill. If you have new doors and windows installed, ensure that they are properly caulked and that there are not wholes on the edges. If the windows and doors are exiting go through the frames and caulk them where you have holes or consider weather-strips for the joints. These are very inexpensive fixes that will make a difference. Do not think so? Consider this: if you only have a few air leaks along the frame one could argue that is it minimal and more air goes out of the house just be opening the front door to exit the house. In itself this is a correct thought, HOWEVER. Consider the number of small openings that you have all around the house. Now take them all and merge them into one single opening. This whole will likely be 1 to 3 square feet. Would you like to leave a permanent 12” x 12” whole in your house? That is in essence what improper installation and weatherization does. So before the temperatures rise again, take a moment to check your doors and windows and seal them or get professional help, if preferred.
If thinking about replacing your old leaky windows and doors, this is a great move to help with your energy savings. Consider the basic option for windows (same applies for doors):
A Standard window will be well constructed and reduce significantly the amount of leakage over older ones. To comply with building code hurricane requirements, a standard window does require the installation of shutters.
An impact window is more expensive than a standard window but will eliminate the need for shutters, as it complies with the building code. Impact (high velocity impact) windows also have the added benefit of security as a simple brick or other tool will not break the glass to allow access into the house. Furthermore, impact windows do allow to maintain visual connection during the event of a hurricane.
An energy star window, typically a Low E gas filled window, focuses on reduced heat transmission. Energy star windows are also more expensive than standard windows but will significantly contribute to your energy savings. Consider energy windows especially if your glazing area faces south, southwest or west.
As an alternative to energy star windows tints may be installed over standard windows. I generally do not recommend tints as they are not part of the manufacturers assembly and therefore tend to peal and crack over time. Tints also have some aesthetic drawbacks as well as cleaning challenges. They are a great option for economical quick fixes.
Impact Energy Star windows are the most expensive option but do give you a great deal of benefits; from security to energy savings. They are always my recommended option, if the budget allows for it.
Finally, let’s look at the different styles of windows. Most windows are either wood, alumni or vinyl. There are also combinations of wood with metal cladding and other constellations. Wood windows are without a doubt the most appealing and impressive option, but do require some ongoing maintenance, especially in the South Florida climate. Most economical windows in this part of the country are aluminum windows with manufacturers like PGT (used in the Chamber South project) and CGI (local manufacturer) providing a good value. Aluminum windows easily comply with anchoring requirements are also very easy to install.
PGT Impact Window at Chamber South
Besides the material, there are a few options to consider for style. The two main options are:
Single hung windows are a basic slider, mostly up and down. About 40% of the window actually opens and about 80% has glazing. They are the most economical option and are operated completely manually by simply sliding half of the panel. Connections on single hung windows do tend to wear out and weatherization is important to maintain.
Casement windows are constructed by having the full glass area in a frame that sits in another frame which is attached to the building. The inner frame is hinged on one side and thus fully operational. Casement windows provide about 80% glazing and 85% opening. The weak point for these windows are the hinges to operate the inner frame. They provide an even better weather seal than single hung windows and are easily maintained.
Casement and fixed combination window
Other forms of windows are fixed, awning (these are multiple glazing frames that are operated on a hinge and open forward and out, very typical in older Florida homes) and bay windows (typically a combination of fixed and casement).
Ready to tackle your window upgrade? Miami Dade County does require a permit for window and door replacement. SEA is ready to help with your project. www.SebastianEilert.com
I was blessed to contribute to the success of the PV retrofit installation, believed to be the first non self adhesive installation in Miami Dade County. The project is a huge success and serves as a wonderful example of what one day each and every home could look and function like. This is the resource page form the owner and below is the Press Release for the project. Please share and spread the word, so we can continue to install many PV systems in South Florida.
Contact SEA for Help with your Solar Project. www.SebastianEilert.com
“March 12, 2009; MIAMI. Everyone held their breath and watched as the dial on the electric meter began to slow down, stop, and then reverse direction. With the flip of a switch, Todd Cooper’s family reached the culmination of 14 months of hard work towards a passion for sustainability. Their new photovoltaic system was finally installed and operational, and thanks to the clear sunny day, was already saving money and reducing their carbon footprint. The Village of Palmetto Bay now has its first fully permitted residential solar energy system.
Todd and his wife Omi Diaz-Cooper, who own Miami ad agency Diaz & Cooper Advertising, embarked on their quest nearly a decade ago as their increasing concern about their impact on the environment planted the seed that would grow into a commitment to reducing their ecological footprint. What started as recycling, buying organic, and reducing the use of chemical cleaners gradually evolved into installing better insulation, high-efficiency appliances and compact florescent lights and eventually a home vegetable garden and compost pile in 2008. This led to a solar hot water system, which reduced their energy bill by nearly $100 a month and paved the way for their full photovoltaic array.
With the cost of energy rising and nearly unanimous scientific consensus about the effects of carbon emissions on global climate change, a solar power system offers an effective way to harness the endless energy provided by the sun, especially in sunny South Florida. Of course going from an average summer FPL bill of over $485 to less than $250 certainly doesn’t hurt, either.
“It has really permeated both our personal and professional lives,” said Cooper. Todd and Omi have also purchased a hybrid vehicle and are working to move their business into a sustainable building built from recycled shipping containers.
The 22 installed panels fully mounted on the roof of the Cooper home
Though Florida is the “Sunshine State”, the current lack of residential solar energy systems leaves many municipalities lacking a structured permitting system for installing photovoltaic cells. Though this made the approval and installation process rather lengthy, the payoff was well worth the effort.
Inspiration came first from Todd’s father, Thomas T. Cooper Sr., A.I.A. who is also the architect of the new office building. Cooper Sr. is a decorated architect whose highly energy-efficient home in Jensen Beach has drawn praise in both the professional and local communities. He helped design the solar energy system and provided the technical drawings needed for the permit process.
Several others were also valuable contributors to the process, including electric engineer Tomas Armstrong, P.E., who donated his services because he is a strong believer in solar energy, and sustainable design architect Sebastian Eilert, who consulted with the Cooper’s when they hit roadblocks in the permitting process. The gracious help of Commissioner Katie Sorenson and her aide, Sean McCracken, was also invaluable to securing the building permit and proceed with the installation.
The array on the roof, installed by Solar Energy Systems, consists of 22 photovoltaic panels and safely generates 5 kilowatts of clean, renewable energy to help power the Cooper home. “Anything we don’t use is pumped back into the grid the same way it would from a nuclear or coal plant,” said Todd. Up until about 6 months ago, FPL would only pay 30 to 40 cents on the dollar for this electricity, but now they pay full price, and with the federal rebates it is a good investment for the family as well.
“We’ve come along way from discussing the idea around the dinner table over a year ago, and in a few years, we’ll start seeing a real return on our investment” Todd notes, “but for now the knowledge that we’re doing what we can for the environment is more than enough.”
More about this: http://www.diazcooper.com/green-matters/resources/
- Solar Energy Systems putting the finishing touches on the installation process
About Diaz & Cooper Advertising
Founded in April of 2001, Diaz & Cooper is a Miami-based agency providing multi-media communications and advertising services to national and international clientele. For more information, visit www.diazcooper.com
Filed under: Building knowledge, Construction and Permits, Energy Efficiency, Sustainable Living
With Hurricane season in full swing and a wet shower passing through with “Nicole”, we are reminded of just how important a good roof is in South Florida. Besides a good seal and protection for your property the roof does a lot more than to top of your shelter.
Ensuring that the roof is installed correctly and will protect form wind and rain remains the first priority. This is regulated by both the Florida Building Code and the Miami Dade Product Approval process and any state licensed contractor in combination with a proper building permit will comply.
There is more to the roof than just protection. In South Florida the roof is responsible for almost 80% of the heat that is introduced into the building on a typical residential and low rise commercial structure. This means that conditioned space must address this heat load. Sure, natural shading will help to reduce the heat gain impact but is not always feasible to be installed in an ideal location. Please see some of the landscaping posts for additional information.
To reduce the heat gain through the roof, there are numerous options available. The first layer of defense is the roof finish. Options for the roof finish that are available under building code and product approval generally include asphalt shingle, barrel tile, concrete shingle, flat roof membrane and metal. Some cities, such as Coral Gables, further restrict these options to maintain a design intend and general appearance for the city. When applying for a permit, the available options will be outlined.
a green roof
Within the noted finishes my clear favorite is metal. Considerations of flying tiles (frequently occurring with barrel and concrete tile roofs), dark colors that will attract a lot of heat (generally asphalt shingles) or flat roof design limitations (how many homes have flat roofs…) make metal roofs the winner. It provides a safe installation that will best resist any hurricane strength winds, provides a light color that not just reduces heat gain but also reflects, and finally also provides the best surface for water collection (a nice bonus).
It is not the least expensive option, but has one of the longest life spans, making the overall investment well worth it.
Design consideration must always be taken into account, but the metal roof has a long history in South Florida and the Florida Keys.
The next barrier is insulation. Often this can be found dropped on the ceiling, which is the wrong location for roof insulation. The building code again provides for minimum levels to ensure a degree of energy efficiency, but simple changes can substantially improve the efficiency of insulation.
To start, it should be installed on the underside of the roof, ensuring that the attic cavity becomes part of the conditioned space. What good is insulation on the ceiling, when water and HVAC systems generally run through this area? Why run them through a sauna like heated space, easily reaching 140+ degrees, when this space can be conditioned, and can be under 100 degrees. Energy is saved by not cooling the wasted 2-4 degrees in the duct and the water pipes.
As there are no HVAC outlets in the attic, it is still a good idea to provide insulation on top of the ceiling, again a small cost of initial installation with a quick payback.
Runs of water and HVAC ducts should be taken into account to further optimize energy savings.
With the above tactics, the roof will be a sustainable shield that will help your home to be more green and keep you some green in your wallet, too. When repairing or replacing your roof, think about this opportunity!
Former Oklahoma University scientist reveals how geothermal heat pumps spend less energy and increase the quality of air. Are you aware that Gerald McClain, after numerous years working with geothermal energy leader James Bose at Oklahoma State College, has invented an innovative home geothermal heating and cooling system?
Heat pumps function as a refrigerator in reverse, they use electric power to move heat from one place to one other instead of making heat directly. Therefore, they can be 2 to 3 times more power efficient than conventional electric heaters. A geothermal heat pump is a central home heating and/or cooling system that pumps heat to/or from the terrain. It uses the earth as a heat source (in the winter) or a heat sink (in the summer).
The geothermal pump models are between the most energy efficient systems for providing HVAC (Heating, Ventilating, and Air Conditioning) and water heating. The start-up rates are higher than conventional systems (about $45,000 decreased by a 30 % with federal tax credit), but the difference is typically returned in energy savings in three to 10 years.
The Gerald McClain’s geothermal system is based on:
- 6 one inch diameter pipes sunk three hundred feet into the soft red clay below his home
- A water antifreeze mix in the pipes that picks up the ground’s constant sixty two degree F. temperature
- 3 heat pumps in the attic that use a small electric powered compressor to heat or cool the home
The energy for the pumps costs around $100 monthly, much less than the normal heating and cooling monthly bill in the area. A well managed heat pump system not only will save electricity, but will also blow dust into the house, improving in house air quality.
Indoor dust can pose health hazards, specially to young children. New data (As released in the epa.gov site in Sept ’09) presents that indoor dust is highly contaminated by persistent and endocrine disrupting chemicals (such as poly-chlorinated biphenyls).
Heat pumps achieve energy effectiveness by transferring heat around as opposed to liberating it. This is not to say there is no air activity with a heat pump, but the heat move lowers that process. So does the lack of a cold-cycle as it exists in many standard furnaces, which also acts to blow dust through the house.
About the writer – Lorie Wampler writes for the <a href=”http://www.splitairconditioning.net/mini-split-heat-pumps”>heat pumps ratings</a> blog. It’s a nonprofit website concentrated on her personal knowledge with air conditioning to reduce energy usage and improve indoor air quality. With this she would like to increase the awareness on eco-friendly tips for the home and change the public perception of energy efficiency.
Filed under: Building knowledge
Sebastian Eilert, AIA to speak at Arkiforum 10 in Santo Domingo – November 18, 2010
