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I will be building a zero net OFF GRID 1920 sq. ft. rancher

user-7000863| Posted inMechanicalson

I will be building a zero net OFF GRID 1920 sq. ft. rancher in the South Cariboo district of BC, Canada and am looking for direction on best heating options, ERV ventilation systems and DHW (besides using solar electricity). Currently looking at propane as explained above.

Very little updated info on modern HVAC, ERV, and DHW systems.

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Replies

  1. Walter Ahlgrim||#1

    Will you please tell us your name?

    Being off grid is that by choice or necessity?

    If you use propane heat and DHW should not be a problem same as any house assuming you have electric power 24/7

    The batteries and generators to cover a cloudy week or 2 are expensive to buy, operate and maintain.

    Walta

  2. GBA Editor
    Martin Holladay||#2

    User 700etc.,
    I agree with Walta: It would be good to know your name.

    Here's my advice: first, read a GBA article calledHow to Design an Off-Grid House.

    Unless you live near a strongly flowing year-round stream in a geographical area where local authorities allow you to install a micro-hydro system, or unless you live in a very windy location and are able to install a wind turbine, your off-grid house is never going to be net zero.

    You're going to be making electricity with a propane generator or a gasoline generator during stretches of cloudy weather in November, December, January, and February. And you can't sell your excess electricity. So you can scratch "net zero" off your list.

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