This high-efficiency, factory-built, 1,232-square-foot test home constructed by Southern Energy Homes Inc. in Russellville, Alabama, is the nation’s first certified U.S. DOE Zero Energy Ready Manufactured Home.

The simple roof design and small footprint common to manufactured homes helps control construction and energy costs including less than $800 per year of expected utility costs.

The high-efficiency DOE Zero Energy Ready Home was set up on Southern Energy Homes’ property next to two identically sized homes, one constructed to the minimum HUD code and one to the ENERGY STAR Certified Homes criteria. DOE researchers will collect 15 months of data for a side-by-side-by-side comparison of energy efficient performance.

The entire home is heated and cooled by one ultra-efficient ductless heat pump that has a heating efficiency of 12 HSPF and a cooling efficiency of 22 SEER, far beyond the federal standards of 7.7 HSPF and 13 SEER.

The test home is equipped with high-efficiency appliances including an ENERGY STAR-labeled dishwasher, clothes washer, and refrigerator shown here being monitored for energy and water use as part of the DOE research study.

The ultra-efficient ductless heat pump is being monitored for energy use as part of the DOE research study.

Thorough air sealing contributes to comprehensive draft protection.

The home is wrapped in rigid foam insulated sheathing that is taped at all seams to provide a continuous exterior thermal blanket.

Southern Energy Homes worked with DOE researchers to develop a quick and efficient way to dense pack blown fiberglass into the low attics for high-efficiency attic insulation.

Factory construction practices offer the opportunity to employ professional installation and a climate-controlled environment to help ensure high-performance insulation and comprehensive draft protection.