DOE Tour of Zero: Foxtail Court by Tim O'Brien Homes

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Tim O'Brien Homes built this 4,730-square-foot custom home in New Berlin, Wisconsin, to the high performance criteria of the U.S. Department of Energy Zero Energy Ready Home (ZERH) program.
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Homeowners should enjoy energy bills as lows as $80 per month in the highly efficient home.
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The 8.4 kW of PV panels installed on the roof adds to utility bill savings along with the highly efficient building shell.
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ENERGY STAR appliances and EPA WaterSense-labeled plumbing fixtures add to energy and water savings.
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LED lighting and ENERGY STAR ceiling fans reduce the cooling load and utility bills.
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The conditioned basement is insulated on the exterior with 1 inch of XPS R-5 rigid insulation and on the interior with 1 inch of polyiso R-6.3 rigid insulation.
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Spray foam insulates and air-seals the exterior wall behind the fireplace.
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Rigid foam protects the exterior of the foundation.
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The builder used spray foam in difficult-to-air-seal spots like the rim joists.
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An active radon fan helps pull radon out of the home’s basement.
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“What is the biggest reward? Having customers talk positively about their new, safe, durable, energy-efficient home.”

– Craig North, Tim O'Brien Homes

DOE Tour of Zero: Foxtail Court by Tim O'Brien Homes: 4,730 square feet, HERS 23, $80 monthly energy bill, $1,300 annual savings, $63,800 saved in 30 years.
Key features: High-performance insulation system for enhanced quiet & comfort, comprehensive draft protection, fresh air system for cleaner indoor air, high-efficiency comfort system, energy-efficient appliances & advanced lighting technology to save ener
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“What is the biggest reward? Having customers talk positively about their new, safe, durable, energy-efficient home to their friends and family. And seeing them brag about their utility bill.”

– Craig North, Tim O'Brien Homes