Efficient Design

ZETA's efficient designs and technology innovations enable us to deliver at overall lower costs. One of these innovations is our unique utility core. This prefabricated and engineered core combines mechanical, plumbing, and electrical systems into a unit that easily connects the sites' infrastructure systems during onsite installation. ZETA also applies efficient design techniques in our space planning for maximum efficiencies.

Energy Efficient Building Envelope

The interface between the interior of the building and the outdoor environment, or the building envelope, plays an important role in determining the amount of energy necessary to maintain a comfortable indoor environment. ZETA's ultra-efficient building envelope design includes high R-value insulation - R-30 roof, R-22 walls, R-5 exterior rigid foam, R-22 floor, and R-5 and R-7 Energy Star Rated windows - along with natural daylighting and ventilation.

Net Zero Energy Mechanical System

To provide thermal comfort, ensure high indoor air quality, optimize ventilation, and reduce air infiltration, ZETA designed its HVAC systems for high performance energy efficiency. ZETA's mechanical system includes a high efficiency heat pump and air-to-air heat exchanger, which are both controlled by the zTherm™ net zero energy controller system.

Clean Energy Source

ZETA captures and harvests clean energy through photovoltaic (PV) cells, which convert sunlight to electricity. With a PV panel efficiency of 18%, ZETA uses some of the most efficient solar energy systems commercially available. PV cells supply approximately 40% of the homes' energy needs and prevent the release of more than 14 tons of CO2 greenhouse gas emissions annually.

Net Zero Energy Controls

ZETA has developed a proprietary energy control and monitoring system called zTherm™-the "brain" of the ZETA structure. This system optimizes energy performance of the whole house by controlling mechanicals and using a sensor system to improve thermal comfort. Occupants can monitor and adjust their energy usage using zTherm™ online controls and web interface.

Sustainable Materials

ZETA uses sustainable materials throughout its structures and provides several options for customization according to design finish preferences. Our sustainable materials package includes FSC certified lumber, low cement/high flyash concrete, recycled cellulose insulation, engineered lumber, fiber cement siding and sustainable finishes, including locally produced ceramic tiles and 100% recycled glass & cement composite countertops.

Mold & Moisture Prevention

ZETA has achieved the highest rating of indoor air quality from the EPA's Indoor airPLUS program. With the assistance of the Department of Energy's Building America team, ZETA has implemented mold and moisture prevention strategies such as mold resistant and dry lumber, GreenGuard-certified insulation board, and commercial flashing techniques.

Wastewater Heat Recovery System

Any hot water that goes down the drain carries away energy with it. That's typically 80%-90% of the energy used to heat water in a home. Drain-water (or greywater) heat recovery systems capture this energy to preheat cold water entering the water heater or going to other water fixtures. Using a wastewater heat recovery system, ZETA buildings capture this energy by preheating cold water with wastewater from showers, sinks, dishwashers, etc.