Client: Anderson Family
Location: Westboro, Ottawa, ON
Completion Date: December 2024
Services Provided: Two-Story Addition, HVAC Design, Zoning Control, High-Efficiency Air Filtration
This project involved a significant two-story addition to an existing bungalow, transforming it into a modern and spacious home. MNE Energy was tasked with designing an efficient, integrated HVAC system that met the Anderson Family’s needs for zoning control and high indoor air quality, incorporating MERV13 and UV filtration to enhance air quality. The existing radiant heaters were retained to support zone-based temperature management, enhancing comfort without the need for new radiant floor installation.
Integrating new HVAC systems with the existing radiant heaters presented technical challenges. The goal was to maintain the original radiant system while achieving the desired air quality and zoning control. Due to limited space for ductwork in the older sections of the bungalow, precise design and planning were essential. Collaboration with the architect minimized potential interferences, ensuring no need for unplanned bulkheads.
MNE Energy approached this project with a strategic focus on design optimization, ensuring compatibility between existing systems and new installations. Key methodologies and solutions are detailed below:
1. Retaining Existing Radiant Heating with HVAC Design:
The original radiant heaters were retained at the client’s request, enabling optimal zone control. Our design included high-efficiency central air systems to supplement the radiant heating, with separate zones for each floor to allow independent operation. Programmable thermostats were installed for precise control, with an outdoor reset control for improved energy efficiency.
2. Dual-Zone Cooling and Heating with In-Zone Flexibility:
MNE Energy designed a dual-zone cooling solution, combining central air conditioning with in-zone mini-split units. This setup enables customized cooling in specific rooms while optimizing energy use. The central system serves primary living areas, while in-room mini-split units offer targeted temperature control.
3. Advanced Filtration for High Indoor Air Quality:
The HVAC design incorporates MERV13 filtration for particle capture, along with UV filtration within the furnace to neutralize airborne pathogens. Together, these systems enhance the indoor environment by filtering out contaminants and maintaining consistent fresh air distribution through the Heat Recovery Ventilator (HRV) system.
4. Heat Recovery Ventilation (HRV) and Air Distribution:
The HRV system was integrated into the design to facilitate balanced ventilation across the home. Ductwork was coordinated carefully to accommodate the structure’s original layout, ensuring airflow efficiency. The HRV operates with programmable controls, enabling tailored air exchange based on room occupancy and usage patterns.
5. Smart Thermostats and Zoning Control:
To provide comprehensive temperature management, MNE Energy included smart thermostats for each zone, enabling remote control via mobile apps. Each thermostat is programmable, allowing the Anderson Family to customize heating and cooling schedules according to their daily routines.
The two-story addition was completed on time, transforming the bungalow into an energy-efficient home with enhanced comfort. MNE Energy’s HVAC design ensured a seamless integration of the existing radiant heaters with new systems for customized zone control. This client-focused approach resulted in reduced energy consumption and improved indoor air quality, meeting the Anderson Family’s expectations for a healthy living environment.