The ECO2H2OUSE introduces the unique approach of using water (H2O) as thermal mass to help reduce CO2 emissions.
What is the ECO2H2OUSE?
The ECO2H2OUSE is an innovative low-energy house that meets passive house energy standards through the use of maximum airtightness, super insulation, air barriers and advanced window technology. It is a modular system that uses laminated veneered lumber (LVL) material to create a robust frame.
Why is it called the ECO2H2OUSE?
The ECO2H2OUSE introduces the unique approach of using water (H2O) as thermal mass to help reduce CO2 emissions.
What are the benefits of the ECO2H2OUSE?
The ECO2H2OUSE is quicker to construct in comparison with conventional brick-built houses and traditional timber-framed houses. It is also cheaper to build.
The modular make-up provides architects with the freedom to create individual designs, using the frame as a base, for a wide variety of building types to fit your specification.
The water, used as thermal mass, which is stored in tanks strategically located throughout the house, captures excess heat during hot summer periods to prevent the building from overheating, which is a major problem in conventional timber-frame constructions. The additional thermal mass also ensures a more even internal temperature year round, and can be used to maximise passive solar gain during winter, thereby reducing the heating requirement.
In the UK today, an average new house built to the passive house standard will use 77% less energy for space heating when compared with one built to the standard building regulations.
What standards does the ECO2H2OUSE meet?
The ECO2H2OUSE meets passive house standards, and achieves level 5 of the Code for Sustainable Homes. It can achieve Level 6 with the addition of elements such as renewable energy.
This is not an off-the-shelf solution; we will offer different insulation products and renewable energy features, depending on an individual building’s location and requirements, to make the most of your home’s positioning.
Do you supply just the frame or build the whole house?
We can do either. Our construction partner, ECO2BUILD, can build your ECO2H2OUSE, or we can supply a kit for your builders to construct independently.
What are the other key features of the ECO2H2OUSE?
In addition to the LVL wooden frame and water tanks, the ECO2H2OUSE includes phase-change material (PCM), CETRIS® board insulation, mechanical heat recovery ventilation (HRV), triple-glazed windows and LED spotlights.
What about roofing and cladding?
Roofing and cladding can be specified by the individual homeowners or architects, thereby allowing individual designs.
What is the difference between ECO2H2OUSE, ECO2BUILD and ECO2H2O?
The ECO2H2OUSE is our product. ECO2BUILD is our construction partner and can build your ECO2H2OUSE. The company ECO2H2O specialises in the development of new-build low- and zero-carbon homes. ECO2H2O can supply the frame, and is comprised of consultants, architects and builders who have brought their innovations to the table to provide a complete service for the creation of new eco-homes and eco-refurbishments.