Environmentally-friendly Modernization Methods for Sustainable House Upgrades Now
In the pursuit of a greener future, a new project is adopting a comprehensive approach to eco-friendly renovations. The goal is to cut energy and carbon emissions, improve health, and increase resilience.
The target LEED level has been set, and the required credits are meticulously mapped to team members and document owners. This structured approach ensures that every aspect of the renovation process contributes to the project's sustainability goals.
Adopting Passive House priorities, such as airtightness, continuous insulation, thermal-bridge reduction, balanced HRV/ERV, and right-sized mechanical systems, is a key part of the strategy. Where feasible, these priorities will be implemented to maximise energy efficiency and minimise environmental impact.
Water conservation is another major focus. Smart irrigation controllers are being used to minimise water waste, and dual-flush toilets with clear labeling have been installed. Low-flow aerators and efficient dishwashers/washers are also being employed to reduce water usage.
Maintenance schedules are in place to ensure the long-term efficiency of the water and energy systems. Monthly leak checks, quarterly irrigation controller and rainwater screen inspections, and annual pump/valve service in graywater/rain systems, backflow preventer checks, and pressure monitoring are all part of the routine.
Balanced ventilation (ERV/HRV) is installed to bring fresh air in and exhaust stale air without huge energy losses. Air system maintenance includes monthly filter checks, quarterly ventilation intake/exhaust inspections, and annual airflow balance tests, airflow cores cleaning, and mold/odor addressing. MERV-13 filters are used in central systems, and HEPA filters are used in sensitive areas or portable units.
The company KONE has developed eco-friendly renovation strategies for sustainable building transitions. Their innovative technologies, such as the KONE EcoDisc® drive, significantly improve elevator energy efficiency and recovers braking energy to reduce overall building energy consumption and CO₂ footprint.
Pressure regulators are installed to stabilise flow, and low-carbon materials are sourced using clear specifications, including certifications, recycled content, and target embodied carbon. Low-flow fixtures, such as faucets and showerheads, are replaced with water-efficient options (1.5-2.0 gpm).
Graywater systems for toilet flushing or irrigation, and rainwater harvesting for garden irrigation with first-flush diverters and proper screens, are planned where codes and site conditions allow.
EPDs and certification documents are requested during RFQ, and suppliers are shortlisted, verified, and compared based on life-cycle costs. This diligent approach ensures that the project's sustainability goals are met while also achieving value for money.
This comprehensive approach to eco-friendly renovations demonstrates a commitment to a greener future and sets a positive example for other projects to follow.
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