Guest post from Bob Cromer, one of our readers.
energy efficient
Underground PAHS House: Stone Wing V6
“Design on the stone wing concept is being revived after a brief hiatus. My underground home project is growing to include a sunroom / atrium entryway that will give more exposure for PAHS efficiency, and the overall layout has changed drastically to accommodate a larger common area. Check out the attached rough sketch – more to come!”
Underhill – The Magical Hobbit-Like Eco Cave House
“This week we visit Underhill, an incredible hobbit-home like, eco-cave house built into a hillside. The off-the-grid house is cleverly constructed to resemble a cave. With no electricity in the house, the stone, wood and rustic features truly make you feel like you’re stepping back in time.”
Learn How to Build Your Own Underground Home
“Underground homes have several advantages over homes built above the ground.
Underground homes, or earthen homes, have extreme benefits over above ground housing across the entire board. Some of these beneficial qualities include their ability to save space above ground, their extreme insulative properties which make them highly energy efficient, and their extremely durable structures.
How to Build Your Own Underground Home
Free ebook on Scribd: How to Build Your Own Underground Home, 2nd edition, 212 pages, by Ray G. Scott. He’s authored three previous books about underground houses. Scott explains how you can cut your heating cost 75% in an underground home. He cut his heating bill 100% by installing a wood stove and cutting his own wood.
Solair Water Heaters and Air Conditioners
“It takes a lot of energy to heat water. Typically, up to 30% of a home’s energy consumption is used just to heat water for bathing, laundry, and cleaning. By installing a solar hot water system, homeowners can shave 200 to 500 kilowatt-hours off their electric bill per month, saving money and reducing pollution. Installing a solar hot water system is typically the first and most cost-effective step when turning to the sun for energy. Even if a photovoltaic system is your primary interest, a solar (thermal) hot water system along with a PV system will provide the best economics and space-efficiency on your roof.”