Focus on...Riverside Estates: Dayton, Ohio's hydro-thermal-solar heated public housing

Article Abstract:

The Riverside Estates Apartments in Dayton, Ohio is believed to be the first public housing development in the U.S. heated and cooled by a combination of hydro-thermal and solar energy, which has proven to be both affordable and simple enough to be attractive to the housing industry in general. Individual apartment furnaces and a central district heating and cooling system are used by the system, the latter mixing shallow-well groundwater and solar energy. To meet the requirements of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development a backup energy system is included that uses conventional electric heating, and through the combination of conventional and alternative energy sources the development has been able to cut its energy consumption substantially. The design and implementation of the system are described.

Author: Mitchell, Stanley L., Bennett, James D.
Usage, Environmental aspects, Ohio, Solar heating, Apartment houses, Apartment buildings, Housing authorities

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Insulation review

Article Abstract:

Proper installation of good insulation can reduce the energy costs of public housing. Housing and Community Development officials should ensure that the walls, windows, floors and ceilings of a building are tight enough to hold temperature-controlled air. Measures should also be adopted to stop heat from penetrating building materials. Insulation are available in various forms, including loose fill, rigid boards, blankets and 'batts.' When evaluating a building's insulation needs, consideration must be given to the amount of insulation that needs to be added, the kind of material to use and the method of installation. Advance planning and proper management are essential for insulation to work as an effective energy-saving device since the smallest errror can result in a significant loss in efficiency.

Management

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Exterior insulation

Article Abstract:

Exterior insulation and finish systems for older buildings is useful in terms of aesthetics and energy conservation. Three types of systems exist: polymer based, polymer modified with mineral base, and mineral base. Each system is described with advantages and disadvantages, materials selection, precautions, and recommendations.

Author: Hutchinson, Mike
Design and construction, Buildings, Dwellings, Building insulation, Exterior walls

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Subjects list: Housing, Public housing, Heating, cooling and ventilation, Thermal insulation, Insulation (Heat)
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