Better Buildings: Better Business Conference

There are an increasing number of building codes, energy programs, and industry groups calling for whole-house mechanical ventilation systems, yet the subject is seldom given much attention even when required by building code! Do home builders and home owners really understand why systems are required? In many cases, some of the most practical systems can also be some of the most cost-effective, and contribute to better indoor air quality. In this session we will discuss best practices, system design requirements, and look at an updated group of mechanical system options and controls.

CREDITS:
AIA 1.25 LU, ASHI 1 CEC, BPI 1.25 CEUs, DSPS 1 CEU towards Dwelling Contractor Qualifier Certification, 1 CEU towards UDC-HVAC Inspector Certification, NAHB, NARI 1.25 CEU, PHIUS CPHC, RESNET

Over 40% of Midwest homes use delivered fuels or electricity as their primary space heating fuel. Cold-climate air source heat pumps (ASHPs) are an ideal candidate for these homes, however, installations have been slow due to lack of familiarity with this technology. This presentation will share research findings from the Minnesota Energy Efficiency Potential Study including detailed data monitoring of ASHP installed in Minnesota homes.

CREDITS:
AIA 1.25 LU, ASHI 1 CEC, BPI 1.25 CEUs, DSPS 1 CEU towards Dwelling Contractor Qualifier Certification, 1 CEU towards UDC-HVAC Inspector Certification, NAHB, NARI 1.25 CEU, PHIUS CPHC, RESNET

Using four case studies, we will discuss truths and myths of costing radiant based cooling and heating systems. The program is designed to help builders and remodelers understand the planning and budgeting steps for the very simple systems to the complex systems. We will also define what contractors and clients should expect from initial consultations, project planning, and mechanical documentation.

CREDITS:
AIA 1.25 LU, ASHI 1 CEC, BPI 1.25 CEUs, DSPS 1 CEU towards Dwelling Contractor Qualifier Certification, 1 CEU towards UDC-HVAC Inspector Certification, NAHB, NARI 1.25 CEU, PHIUS CPHC, RESNET

Heat pumps, especially the highly efficient ductless mini/multi split systems, have seen rapid growth in consumer interest. Utility efficiency programs are banking on huge energy savings due to the capabilities of the inverter compressor. While sales are growing at a furious pace, there remains a gap in knowledge with this technology across the industry. We will bridge the gap and answer your questions on topics like: current misconceptions, industry trends, diverse and flexible applications in retrofit scenarios, as well as many more.

CREDITS:
AIA 1.25 LU, ASHI 1 CEC, BPI 1.25 CEUs, DSPS 1 CEU towards Dwelling Contractor Qualifier Certification, 1 CEU towards UDC-HVAC Inspector Certification, NAHB, NARI 1.25 CEU, PHIUS CPHC, RESNET

Tightly air-sealed, well-insulated buildings combined with increased ventilation rates have become mainstream and code required, and there is no going back. The era of actively controlling moisture has begun and realizing that the traditional methods will no longer effectively meet the new moisture demands is more important than ever. This session presents the building science perspective on the "new normal" and the challenges that builders and building performance contractors now must learn to deal with effectively. The time is now to learn why and how to address indoor moisture risks through dedicated moisture control systems in single–family homes and multifamily buildings. The new ACCA Manual LLH (low load homes) will be presented and discussed.

CREDITS:
AIA 1.25 LU/HSW, ASHI 1 CEC, BPI 1.25 CEUs, DSPS 1 CEU towards Dwelling Contractor Qualifier Certification, 1 CEU towards UDC-HVAC Inspector Certification, NAHB, NARI 1.25 CEU, PHIUS CPHC, RESNET

The subject of indoor air quality (IAQ) gets a lot of press these days and it's often assumed that just because a home is new that the installed mechanical ventilation systems can contribute to better IAQ. The most common types of ventilation systems include whole-house, bathroom spot, and kitchen spot. Of these three systems, it is Joe’s belief that the bathroom spot fans are probably used most frequently and are the most important, yet why do so many test poorly? This session will highlight several case studies clearly demonstrating the importance of good products combined with good installation practices.

CREDITS:
AIA 1.25 LU, ASHI 1 CEC, BPI 1.25 CEUs, DSPS 1 CEU towards Dwelling Contractor Qualifier Certification, 1 CEU towards UDC-HVAC Inspector Certification, NAHB, NARI 1.25 CEU, PHIUS CPHC, RESNET