ECONAR^® Energy Systems - Residential Case Study
Health House - Lake Elmo, Minnesota

The American Lung Association™ of Hennepin County built a Health House and the goal was to make the air as healthy as possible. They used special building techniques to minimize irritants such as molds and dust that can cause respiratory problems. The Health House is also energy efficient in its design because it was built to reduce air infiltration.

For the first time as a recommendation from Northern States Power™ (NSP) a geothermal system was installed to make the Health House ’96 even healthier. Heat pumps use electricity rather than a combustible fuel, so there is not a threat of potentially dangerous carbon monoxide or other combustion pollutants. The Health House ’96 in Lake Elmo, MN was featured in the Fall Parade of Homes.

Geo$ense

The estimated annual heating cost is $580 and the estimated cooling cost is $210. The electric rate for the geothermal system is 5.19 cents per KWH. The savings over a typical natural gas system are about 24% less and about 60% less than LP gas. While energy-efficient furnaces can be up to 98% efficient, geothermal systems can reach efficiencies of 300-400%.

Physical Data

• 4,900 square feet, Built in 1996
  
• 6 Ton Capacity
  
• Utilizes GV670 ECONAR^® Combo Unit
  
• Mechanical Contractor – S & B Geothermal, Ham Lake, MN
  
• Earth Loop Contractor – S & B Geothermal, Ham Lake, MN
  

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