Infiltration Control
All exterior joints and all penetrations are caulked, foamed, gasketed, weather-stripped or otherwise sealed. This includes:

Duct Work
Duct leakage testing occurs on all homes to assure maximum performance and reduced air leakage. Air quality is enhanced as a result of tight fitting duct design and materials.

Ducts must be sealed and tested to ≤ 4 cfm to outdoors/100 sq. ft of conditioned floor area as determined and documented by a RESNET-certified rater using a RESNET-approved testing protocol or through an equivalent ASTM-approved testing protocol.

Ducts installed in conditioned spaces are insulated to the same R-value as those in unconditioned spaces.

Return air systems are hard-ducted to improve HVAC efficiency and comfort.

Dampers are in place to aid comfort in the home.

Duct sealing mastic, UL-181 aluminum tape and high quality caulking or foam sealant are used.

Duct systems are designed for long-life, performance and comfort. This performance criteria sets the Indiana HOME program apart from other regional and national new home energy efficiency programs.

Ductwork leaks can waste between 20% and 40% of the home's heating and cooling dollar. Ductwork should last the life of the home. Anything less is unacceptable.

Mechanical Ventilation
Exhaust fans are installed to help remove moisture from kitchens and baths.

Exhaust Systems feature back draft dampers to prevent heat from being lost when the fans are not in use.

All pipe is smooth-walled, insulated and run to the outdoors to assure maximum fan performance and comfort.

Mechanical Ventilation Rate:
ASHRAE 62.2 formula = [(# of bedrooms + 1) x 7.5] + (total Sq. Ft. x 0.01)

Example:     A 4,000 square foot house with 5 bedrooms should have a
                  mechanical ventilation rate of around 75 (> 60, < 90).
                        [(4 bedrooms +1) x 7.5] + (4,000 sq. ft. x 0.01) = 77.5

For a complete listing and description of the Touchstone Energy Home Consumer, click here.