Energy Efficiency

R-2000 homes are built to deliver extraordinary energy performance. And according to R-2000 homeowners, this also means extraordinary living comfort.

• The R-2000 Standard is based on energy targets, that is, the maximum amount of energy that a home is allowed to use for space and water heating. The target varies according to geographical location, size and fuel type. Preset operating conditions are used in the calculations for other variables, such as lighting, appliance and interior loads.
• R-2000 builders meet the energy target by using superior construction techniques and high quality products. This includes lots of insulation, careful sealing to eliminate air leaks and drafts, and energy-efficient heating, cooling and ventilation equipment.
• R-2000 builders take advantage of free solar heating whenever they can. Homes are placed on the lot to maximize the amount of sun coming into the house in the winter. This cuts down on “purchased energy” for your home; it also creates a bright, cheery living environment. Roof overhangs, awnings and strategic plantings (trees and shrubs) will help to keep the home cool in the summer.
• Traditionally, windows have been a weak point in terms of energy efficiency. However, today’s advanced window technology has made it much easier to get great energy performance and great aesthetics at the same time. Windows in an R-2000 home must have a minimum Energy Rating value, depending on whether they are operable (open and close) or fixed. And you can still choose decorative windows as well, such as sidelights, windows in doors, leaded windows and so on.
• How well do R-2000 homes perform? Typically, the air leakage allowed in an R-2000 home is only half of that in other new homes; older homes often have 10 times as much air leakage. And typically, an R-2000 home uses 30%-40% less energy than a comparable non-R-2000 home. It’s also important to realize that the R-2000 target is a minimum target—depending on construction methods and equipment chosen, your R-2000 home may use even less energy.
• How much money will I save on energy? The best way to determine that is to talk with an R-2000 builder. There are many variables—the cost of energy in your region; the construction and equipment used in your R-2000 home, and not least your lifestyle, e.g. the number of people and pets and the number of hours a day the house is occupied.
• What are the other benefits of R-2000 energy-efficient construction? You can’t measure comfort and quality of life—if you could, many homeowners would give it a very high rating. “A home with a difference. Excellent. Solid. Quiet and peaceful. Bright. Clean, no dust. Comfortable temperatures all year round”—these are some of the words used to describe the experience of living in an R-2000 home.

Contact your regional R-2000 Office for more information on R-2000 in your area, or use the "Find A Member" module to the right. Select "R2000 Builder" under Category with your province or local HBA to find R-2000 Builders in your area.