Chooses Affordable Energy Efficient Products Available and Scores 25% Higher than the Standard Energy Star Rating
The Schieler family manufacturers over one hundred modular homes each year for families in five Midwest states with their company, Homeway Homes. Now, the company is manufacturing a special one just for general manager, Ted Schieler, and it’s going to be green. Not the color—environmentally green.
Schieler’s new house, a 1,700 square foot, ranch-style home based on the company’s existing “Concord” model, incorporates energy-efficiency, water capture and conservation, sustainable or recycled products, and measures to protect indoor air quality, and doesn’t sacrifice on style or attractiveness. The home also includes a geothermal energy source instead of fuel, which refers to a process using heat from deep in the earth to heat or cool the home. The Department of Energy (DOE) and Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) have endorsed ground source heat pump systems as among the most energy-efficient and environmentally friendly heating, cooling, and water heating systems available.
“The challenge with geothermal, or any alternative energy source is how well it is used; how little energy is wasted,” says Schieler, a builder with impressive credentials: GMB, CGP, CSP and president of The Home Builders Association of Illinois. “A green home should be comfortable and extremely energy-efficient. What good is an alternate energy source if you’re not using smart products that help conserve as much of the energy as possible? So, we’re pairing the home’s geothermal system with Energy Strength high performance spray foam insulation. It’s the best energy combo out there.”
Schieler explains, “Energy Strength closed-cell spray foam is an ideal insulator. Because it’s a spray-applied foam it fills every crack, then expands and cures to provide ultra-insulation and a vapor and air barrier. I don’t see how you can build with geothermal without Energy Strength. We believe it’s an example for the entire building industry.”
Schieler’s new home will also include ENERGY STAR appliances, low flow plumbing fixtures, dual flush toilets, a rainwater retention system, low to no VOC paints, and sustainable building products throughout.
Homeway Homes is using Schieler’s new home to model their green building future. Schieler says, “We’re working toward plant certification by the National Association of Home Builders Green Building Program (NAHBGreen), and my home gives us the hands-on opportunity to hone our processes.”
“It’s the home I’ve always wanted to build for my family,” says Schieler. “Ultra-energy-efficient, comfortable, good for the environment, and without sacrificing any of the beauty of the home.”