1959 Bungalow Net-Zero Ready Retrofit

Thanks to a net-zero-ready retrofit all about boosting comfort and cutting energy use, this bungalow sips energy instead of guzzling it.

Building Type Single-Family Bungalow (incl. 1.5 Story) Location Calgary, AB
Year Built 1959 Foundation Type Concrete (Full Basement)
Structure Type Wood-Framed Post-Retrofit Total Floor Area 178.1m2
Climate Zone 7a Heating Degree Days 5000
Retrofit Status Complete Year Completed 2022
Retrofit Phasing No Geometry Changed No
Annual Energy Savings 58.74% Operational Carbon Savings 2.05 tCO2eq/y
Retrofit Type Envelope and Mechanical Performance Level Net-Zero Ready

Project Team

Project Priorities

  • Reduce Energy Consumption
  • Achieve Net Zero or Net Zero Ready
  • Increase Thermal Comfort
  • Improve Indoor Air Quality
  • Reduce GHG Emissions
  • Repair and/or Renew Exterior
  • Improve Home Value

Upgrades

Envelope Improvements

  • Wall Insulation – Exterior – Fibrous Board Insulation
  • Attic / Roof Internal Insulation
  • Foundation Walls Exterior Insulation
  • Air Sealing / Airtightness
  • Exterior Cladding

Windows and Door Improvements

  • Window Replacement – Double Pane

Mechanical: Heating and Cooling Improvements

  • Air Source Heat Pump – Ducted
  • Gas / Fossil Fuel Disconnection

Mechanical: Ventilation Improvements

  • Heat Recovery Ventilator (HRV)

Mechanical: Hot Water Improvements

  • Heat Pump Water Heater (HPWH)

Project Description

The Retrofit Story

This deep retrofit began with a family’s desire for a cozier, more efficient home. The homeowner also mentioned that there was frost forming inside on the closet walls. Working with Solar Homes and their energy advisor, who assessed their home’s weak points, they developed a plan that prioritized the most effective upgrades. The builder recommended starting with better insulation and window replacement to improve heat retention, followed by installing a Daikin heat pump and AO Smith heat pump water heater to boost efficiency. This strategic plan allowed them to confidently disconnect from natural gas, resulting in lower energy bills, improved comfort, and a greener, healthier home they now take pride in.

Getting to Net Zero

The envelope improvements did much of the heavy lifting, and the home is now ready for a solar PV system to bring them to net-zero.

Before & After

General

Envelope

Mechanical & Electrical

Annual Energy Usage

Carbon Emissions

Technical Documents

Photos

Pre Retrofit

During Construction

Post Retrofit