DOE Tour of Zero: The Gordon Estates by Mandalay Homes

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Mandalay Homes constructed 14 affordable homes that are certified as U.S. DOE Zero Energy Ready Homes.
Photo courtesy of Mandalay Homes
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These high-performance homes will each reduce energy costs by nearly $900 per year compared to minimum-code homes.
Photo courtesy of Mandalay Homes
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Continuous thermal blanket wall construction, hidden by the stucco exterior, is created by wrapping the framing with rigid foam insulation.
Photo courtesy of Mandalay Homes
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In addition to DOE Zero Energy Ready Home certification, all homes meet the requirements of ENERGY STAR Certified Homes and EPA’s WaterSense and Indoor airPLUS programs.
Photo courtesy of Mandalay Homes
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The homes were constructed with certified low-/no-VOC finishes and certified formaldehyde-free board products to help provide a healthy indoor environment.
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High-efficiency ENERGY STAR appliances and water-saving EPA WaterSense-certified fixtures provide energy and water savings.
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Mandalay Homes worked with the city of Phoenix to build these 14 new high-performance homes.
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Rigid foam exterior sheathing provides a continuous thermal blanket around the home’s exterior.
Photo courtesy of Mandalay Homes
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One of the homes employed a unique system combining solar electric power production with solar water heating, space heating, and ventilation.
Photo courtesy of Mandalay Homes
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The ultra-efficient wall insulation system includes 3.5 inches of closed-cell spray foam in the wall cavity plus 1 inch of rigid foam insulation exterior sheathing. The 5.5 inches of closed-cell spray foam under the roof deck provides ultra-efficient attic insulation and space to house the interior comfort delivery system.
Photo courtesy of Mandalay Homes
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The development’s water-saving irrigation incorporates drip irrigation, solar sync timers, and rain sensors to minimize water use.
Photo courtesy of Mandalay Homes
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The site’s water-saving landscape design includes xeriscaping with native plants and preservation of existing plants on site.
Photo courtesy of Mandalay Homes

“When I saw my first bill and I compared it to my last home's bill, I was so impressed.”

DOE Tour of Zero: Gordon Estates by Mandalay Homes infographic: Phoenix, AZ; mandalayhomes.com. 1,700 square feet, HERS score 38, $75 average monthly energy bill, $900 annual savings, $36,000 saved in the first 30 years.
Key features list: High-performance insulation system for enhanced quiet and comfort, comprehensive draft protection, fresh air system for cleaner indoor air, high-efficiency comfort system, energy-efficient appliances and advanced lighting technology for

"We love our home.  We have enjoyed being here so much … When I saw my first bill and I compared it to my last home's bill, I was so impressed. This is such a wonderful home."

– Mandalay homeowner

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