Watt Homes
Watt Homes is a builder that constructs moderately priced yet
energy-efficient homes in Utah and other states. Energy saving features included
blown-in cellulose insulation in attics (R-45) and walls (R-20), R-16 foundation
insulation, low-e vinyl windows, high efficiency furnaces, and tight sealing of
the building envelope so that air flow is limited to 0.20 air changes per hour.
A study of 232 of these homes built between 1995 and 1998 found the average
annual natural gas consumption to be 45% lower than that for the local housing
stock. The gas savings are equal to about $310 per year for the typical
homeowner. Watt Homes was purchased in 1999 by
John Laing Homes and again in 2002 by
Richmond American Homes. The new owners have continued to construct
energy-efficient housing. |
