Replies

1. GBA Editor
   Martin Holladay|Sep 01, 2009 01:00pm|#1

   Claire,
   It's certainly true that "the more insulation you have in your ceiling/attic, the better."

   Whether the upgrade is a cost-effective investment depends on your climate and the cost of alternative measures. A HERS rater or energy consultant should be able to help you optimize your investments in your building envelope and HVAC system.

   You will get better advice if you tell us where you are building.

2. 
   Claire Anderson|Sep 01, 2009 01:31pm|#2

   Hi Martin ~

   We're building in the Applegate Valley of southern Oregon, latitude 42.26; longitude -123.19, elev. 1,480 ft.

   Here's a quick HDD analysis:
   Description: Farenheit-based heating degree days for a base temperature of 65F
   Source:http://www.degreedays.net(using temperature data fromhttp://www.wunderground.com)
   Accuracy: No problems detected
   Station: Sorensen's Ranch, Applegate, OR, US
   Station ID: KORGRANT8

   Month starting HDD
   8/1/08 108
   9/1/08 192
   10/1/08 409
   11/1/08 595
   12/1/08 889
   1/1/09 850
   2/1/09 668
   3/1/09 652
   4/1/09 544
   5/1/09 324
   6/1/09 151
   7/1/09 147
   8/1/09 298

   Description: Farenheit-based cooling degree days for a base temperature of 65F
   Source:http://www.degreedays.net(using temperature data fromhttp://www.wunderground.com)
   Accuracy: No problems detected
   Station: Sorensen's Ranch, Applegate, OR, US
   Station ID: KORGRANT8

   Month starting CDD
   8/1/08 245
   9/1/08 175
   10/1/08 37
   11/1/08 0
   12/1/08 0
   1/1/09 0
   2/1/09 0
   3/1/09 4
   4/1/09 32
   5/1/09 105
   6/1/09 122
   7/1/09 338
   8/1/09 249

   Thanks,
   Claire