Dave Hawley has been concerned about climate change for decades. His first job in the summer of 1968 was as a cook in Glacier Bay. There, glacial ice had receded many miles from the first recorded observations. The glacial recession was initially attributed to climatic cycles. It soon became clear to him and others that fossil fuel burning was the culprit.
He and his wife Carol lived in a 1930’s era cabana on Oswego Lake for twenty years. Due to structural and other issues, they reluctantly decided to completely rebuild the home. In 2020, they approached the architect of an admired home a few doors down. The architect was taken aback by the idea of a home without “natural gas” and an all electric/solar home but was willing to work with them.
Dave led much of the research around the new home and introduced the architect and contractor to many new ideas and products. Dave imported triple pane, tilt and turn windows from Poland. These windows are tight, strong, well insulated and are critical to the home’s operation.
Heat pumps are used for space and water heating as well as the dryer. Tesla Solar tiles provide 80% of the home’s annual energy needs, and two Tesla batteries will support the home for up to five hours in case of an outage. A pellet stove, which uses about 100 watts, can keep the home warm allowing the battery to supply days of “essential” electrical loads during a long term outage.
The home uses conventional frame construction with rockwool insulation, but adds a thin external insulation layer to compensate for thermal bridging by studs and structural steel. With the use of anAeroBarrier acrylic mist air sealing process, the envelope meets passive home air exchange standards. A Lunos ductless heat recovery ventilation system ensures constant fresh air.
The beautiful floors are recycled wood throughout. Siding is a low maintenance, fire resistant combination of steel and cementitious materials.
Carol was 100% supportive, though a bit worried about not having a gas stove. She learned to cook on induction and was completely won over.
The home was completed in 2022. It has been a joy to Dave and Carol and performs as hoped for.
