Forums - Home Performance Washington

Forums - Home Performance Washington - Recent Posts http://www.homeperformancewashington.org/forum/ Forums - Home Performance Washington - Recent Posts en-US Thu, 09 Sep 2010 09:28:16 +0000 http://bbpress.org/?v=1.0.2 <![CDATA[Search]]> q http://www.homeperformancewashington.org/forum/search.php Ammen Jordan on "Let's Close on Home Star" http://www.homeperformancewashington.org/forum/topic/lets-close-on-home-star#post-431 Wed, 08 Sep 2010 07:51:43 +0000 Ammen Jordan 431@http://www.homeperformancewashington.org/forum/ Dear HPW and Efficiency First Members, The Senate returns to Washington next week and it is critically important that your senators know that now is the time to pass HOME STAR. Showing your support for HOME STAR today will take less than 10 minutes of your time and is as easy as 1, 2 & 3. Will you make calls for HOME STAR? Click here to find contact info for both your senators, in DC and in your state. Place calls to both your senators in both their home and DC offices -- it is important they hear from you at home and in DC! Make 4 calls total, using the talking points below. <a href="http://salsa.wiredforchange.com/dia/track.jsp?v=2&c=h39h8P9zyjV1M%2BA6buymrbrmydRhiuXq" rel="nofollow">http://salsa.wiredforchange.com/dia/track.jsp?v=2&c=h39h8P9zyjV1M%2BA6buymrbrmydRhiuXq</a> Click here to let us know you've made the calls. <a href="http://salsa.wiredforchange.com/dia/track.jsp?v=2&c=so6wRt3kKly431RdUCppGYm41W7kr%2BCe" rel="nofollow">http://salsa.wiredforchange.com/dia/track.jsp?v=2&c=so6wRt3kKly431RdUCppGYm41W7kr%2BCe</a> That's it! Thank you for your support of HOME STAR! ---- Talking Points: Hello. My name is (Insert Name) and I am a constituent from (Insert State). I am calling to urge Senator (Insert Name) to pass the important S. 3663 legislation when the Senate returns to Washington D.C. in September. As you know, S. 3663 (known as "the spill bill") was being considered by the Senate prior to the August recess but did not come up for a vote. It is our sincere hope that Senators - from both sides of the aisle - are working together to constructively resolve concerns in the legislation in order to move to bi-partisan passage of the bill. S. 3663 includes some important provisions that have all received bi-partisan support from Senators and broad-based support from coalitions. Together, these provisions are critical to: Increase America's Energy Independence through the use of natural gas and electric vehicles. Create jobs in two of the hardest hit American industries- construction and manufacturing -by providing federal support for home energy efficiency retrofits. Fully fund the Land and Water Conservation Fund to protect irreplaceable lands and ensure close-to-home recreational opportunities, Help American homeowners reduce their energy and water bills. We urge you to support and pass this important legislation when you are back in Washington in September. Let's get Americans back to work and enjoying energy savings. Thank you for your time. ---- Also, please join Congressman Peter Welch, HOME STAR's author, on a special conference call at 11:30am EASTERN this morning to launch the National Call-in Day. Call 712-432-0075 and use the access code 260284# to dial in. Best, Jared Asch National Director Efficiency First David Bangs on "BPI Reminder: Importance of Standards and Quality Assurance" http://www.homeperformancewashington.org/forum/topic/bpi-reminder-importance-of-standards-and-quality-assurance#post-430 Thu, 26 Aug 2010 12:03:43 +0000 David Bangs 430@http://www.homeperformancewashington.org/forum/ From: Building Performance Institute BPI Reminds Stakeholders of Importance of Conformance to Standards and Quality Assurance Protocols to Protect Occupants and Reduce Liability Risk BPI is issuing a public reminder to its stakeholders on the importance of conforming to BPI National Standards and Quality Assurance protocols - including performing combustion appliance safety checks - to protect occupant health and safety, as well as to reduce liability risk for Accredited Contractors. "At BPI, we emphasize safety and risk reduction as fundamentals that must be practiced on every job," said David Hepinstall, Chairman of the BPI Board of Directors. "We view these key steps not as 'best-practices' but rather as 'must-practices' that are imperative for protecting occupant health, reducing liability risk for Accredited Contractors and program managers and guarding the reputation and growth of the home performance and weatherization industry as a whole. We remind each and every one of our stakeholders to never relax their efforts when it comes to safety." The reminder is prompted by the news of a civil lawsuit filed on August 11, 2010, stemming from the carbon monoxide poisoning case of a family of four in Aspen, Colorado in November, 2008. To BPI's knowledge, none of the individuals or companies involved in the current civil or previous criminal cases was in any way connected with the organization at the time of the Lofgren family's deaths. According to an August 12th report in the Aspen Daily News, the civil suit targets 12 defendants, including three local men also indicted on criminal charges for the deaths, the owner of the house where they died, the manufacturer of the boiler that allegedly leaked the poisonous gas, Pitkin County and the county's community development department. The suit, filed in Denver district court, contains 39 pages of allegations against the 12 parties, including claims of negligence, manslaughter, product liability and civil rights violations. According to the Aspen Daily News report, the lawsuit in the Lofgren case claims five preventable causes that led to the poisoning, including disconnected exhaust piping and fresh-air intake vents, defective design of the boiler unit itself, improper installation of the ventilation system and the absence of carbon monoxide detectors in the house. "Our hearts go out to the Lofgrens' family and friends, because carbon monoxide poisoning deaths can be and should be prevented. Examples like these are the precise reason why we have standards and why BPI Accredited Contractors and their Certified Professionals must conform to those standards. Anything less can result in tragedy for families and adverse consequences for contractors, manufacturers, program managers and anyone and everyone connected with the project, however distantly," said Larry Zarker, CEO of BPI. "This is also why we add a double layer of protection with our Quality Assurance Program on the work of BPI Accredited Contractors. By verifying that the work conforms to our standards, including all safety tests, we greatly reduce the risk of horrific things happening. Quality assurance helps protect occupants from real danger and helps protect contractors from liability. It also provides a marketable point of differentiation by allowing BPI Accredited Contractors and the incentive program managers who specify them to offer their customers increased peace of mind," he added. BPI national standards include combustion safety and carbon monoxide protection provisions that must be followed whenever heating systems or the building envelope are altered, including: * A preliminary and post-installation safety inspection of all combustion appliances * Carbon monoxide (CO) measurement at each appliance * Draft measurement and spillage evaluation for atmospherically vented appliances * Worst-case negative pressure measurement for each combustion appliance zone (CAZ) To read the Aspen Daily News article referenced in this announcement, please visit <a href="http://www.aspendailynews.com/section/home/141957" rel="nofollow">http://www.aspendailynews.com/section/home/141957</a>. David Bangs on "Referendum 52 in WA State" http://www.homeperformancewashington.org/forum/topic/referendum-52-in-wa-state#post-429 Wed, 25 Aug 2010 09:49:18 +0000 David Bangs 429@http://www.homeperformancewashington.org/forum/ From: Northwest Energy Efficiency Council I want to give you an update on an important ballot measure in the November election in Washington State. Referendum 52 (see more detail below) is an exciting opportunity for the energy efficiency industry. If successful, this investment in schools, colleges, and universities in the state will be the largest sector targeted effort for energy efficiency in the United States. The opportunity to share in this market potential will cut across a wide swath of energy efficiency companies. Please join NEEC’s strong support of Referendum 52 by; 1. Signing an endorsement of the Referendum at <a href="http://www.healthyschoolsforwa.org" rel="nofollow">http://www.healthyschoolsforwa.org</a> 2. Making a campaign donation: Checks payable to Yes for Schools and Jobs, PO Box 9100, Seattle, WA 98109 Thanks for your support! Stan Price, Executive Director Northwest Energy Efficiency Council David Bangs on "Good news for Washington: millions more for weatherization" http://www.homeperformancewashington.org/forum/topic/good-news-for-washington-millions-more-for-weatherization#post-428 Tue, 24 Aug 2010 09:27:27 +0000 David Bangs 428@http://www.homeperformancewashington.org/forum/ From: Northwest Energy Coalition. Last week, US DOE announced that eleven Washington weatherization programs were awarded nearly $7 million to fund a variety of energy efficiency and on site renewable projects. o Benton-Franklin Community Action Committee will install ductless mini-split heat pumps and heat pump water heaters. o Blue Mountain Action Council, based in Walla Walla, will install cool roofs and tankless water heaters. o City of Seattle Office of Housing will install tankless systems combining water and space heating, solar hot water, and heat pumps. o Clark County Department of Community Services will install solar, hybrid, and tankless water heaters. o Community Action Council of Lewis, Mason, and Thurston Counties, will install highly efficient windows, tankless hot water heaters, and ductless heat pump systems. o King County Housing Authority will install ductless mini-split heat pumps and solar photovoltaics. o Lower Columbia Community Action Council, located in Longview, will install solar hot water systems. o Okanogan County Community Action Council will install heat pump and solar hot water systems and heat recovery ventilation systems. o Pierce County Community Services will install solar hot water systems. o Rural Resources Community Action, based in Colville, will install solar and tankless hot water systems and solar photovoltaics. o The Opportunity Council, based in Bellingham, will install solar and heat pump hot water systems, mini-split ductless heat pumps, solar photovoltaics, and deep energy retrofits. Also, the Washington State Department of Commerce has been selected to receive $3 million to partner with western Washington Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs) and utility companies to establish the Replicable Innovative Sustainable Energy (RISE) Weatherization Pilot. This program will establish a loan fund exclusively for low-income weatherization, and create a one-stop shop offering utility rebates, below-market loans, a carbon incentive fund, and subsidies for property owners and developers of multifamily buildings for low-income residents. For a copy of the full story: <a href="http://apps1.eere.energy.gov/news/progress_alerts.cfm/pa_id=384" rel="nofollow">http://apps1.eere.energy.gov/news/progress_alerts.cfm/pa_id=384</a> David Bangs on "Washington State Energy Code - August Update from Northwest Energy Coalition" http://www.homeperformancewashington.org/forum/topic/state-energy-code#post-427 Mon, 23 Aug 2010 23:32:14 +0000 David Bangs 427@http://www.homeperformancewashington.org/forum/ When implemented, the 2009 energy code will save a lot of energy compared to today's code: new homes, depending on location and size will be 6% to 26% more energy efficient and commercial buildings will average 17% savings. The kicker is - when will the code become effective so that we start to see those savings? After delaying the code from its scheduled implementation date of July 1, 2010, the State Building Code Council is now proposing an effective date of January 1, 2011. We support at least that date if not earlier - delay it any more and another construction season goes by and more buildings become "lost opportunities." Training and education to meet the new code requirements are well underway and code officials, builders, engineers and architects are now getting familiar with the new rules. Any further delay and the benefit of that training gets lost, and there's likely no extra money to pay for more classes. The State Building Code Council needs to hear there is strong support for the new energy code to become effective no later than January 1, 2011: • Submit written comments by September 24, 2010 to: John Cochran, Council Chair, P.O. Box 41014, Olympia, WA 98504-1014, e-mail <a href="mailto:krista.braaksma@ga.wa.gov">krista.braaksma@ga.wa.gov</a>, fax (360) 586-9383. • Attend a public hearing: Spokane City Council Chambers, West 808 Spokane Falls Boulevard, Spokane, on September 10, 2010, at 10:00 a.m.; and at the Senate Hearing Room 2, Cherberg Building, Capitol Campus, Olympia, on September 24, 2010, at 10:00 a.m. The formal rulemaking, comments and hearings relate only to the proposed effective date of January 1, 2011 - not the technical components, costs or other issues associated with the code. Suggested points that could be included in your comments and testimony: - The building industry anticipates changes to the code every three years and was expecting and prepared for the July 1, 2010 implementation date. There is no substantial reason for further delay. In fact, the economic analyses adopted by the SBCC show that adopting the code is in the economic interests of the state. - The longer the delay, the more buildings there are that don't incorporate current, cost effective energy saving design and technologies. Buildings built today will be with us for 50 to 100 years. Once a new building is constructed, it's expensive and often impossible to achieve the energy efficiency that can be built in so economically at the time of construction - an opportunity we can't afford to lose. This is just as true when there is a building boom and when there is an economic slow down. - The region is counting on the energy savings from Washington's energy code to meet the targets set in the NPCC's 6th Plan. The longer the delay - the more the savings have to be made up somewhere else. - The cycle of energy code changes every three years. Further delay with the 2009 code compresses the next cycle so that builders, code officials, engineers and vendors will be faced with another round of changes within two years. - Substantial investments in training code officials, builders, engineers, architects and others on the 2009 code have already been made; the longer the delay, the less effective that training investment. If I can be of any assistance, please don't hesitate to ask. Thanks! Kim Drury Senior Policy Associate NW Energy Coalition 206.621.0094 <a href="http://efficiencyworks.org/" rel="nofollow">http://efficiencyworks.org/</a> Ammen Jordan on "Mini-Split Field Visit" http://www.homeperformancewashington.org/forum/topic/mini-split-field-visit#post-426 Tue, 17 Aug 2010 07:55:11 +0000 Ammen Jordan 426@http://www.homeperformancewashington.org/forum/ I do... Charlie_Rogers on "Mini-Split Field Visit" http://www.homeperformancewashington.org/forum/topic/mini-split-field-visit#post-425 Mon, 16 Aug 2010 19:26:26 +0000 Charlie_Rogers 425@http://www.homeperformancewashington.org/forum/ I just audited a house that I think would make for a great conversion to ductless heat pump. The homeowner is EXTREMELY skeptical and the only thing I can think of to show them about how awesome they can be (and to quell concerns about noise and size) is to get them into a home where one is installed. Does anyone have a mini in their home or perhaps a customer who has made this conversion that would be willing to let us drop by for a bit? Thanks, Charlie jeff.catlin@econtc.com on "Equipment" http://www.homeperformancewashington.org/forum/topic/equipment#post-424 Sat, 14 Aug 2010 07:25:28 +0000 jeff.catlin@econtc.com 424@http://www.homeperformancewashington.org/forum/ Dan, We can help you with everything but the Low-E detector. Give me a call on Moday @ (503) 853-6111, or email me at <a href="mailto:jeff.catlin@econtc.com">jeff.catlin@econtc.com</a> Best regards, -Jeff Catlin DanWildenhaus on "Equipment" http://www.homeperformancewashington.org/forum/topic/equipment#post-423 Fri, 13 Aug 2010 09:13:36 +0000 DanWildenhaus 423@http://www.homeperformancewashington.org/forum/ Hey all- I will be auditing several commercial buildings and will be looking to lease some equipment. If you have any of the following you wouldn't mind lending or leasing for 5 weeks, let me know. I can work out payment. If you know of anyone that leases equipment, I'd be happy to hear about it! Low-E detector Combustion gas analyzer/CO detector Non-penetrating moisture meter Flow plate (from Energy Conservatory CO2/humidity/temperature probe/wand Thanks! Dan Wildenhaus Ammen Jordan on "Today's Meeting Agenda" http://www.homeperformancewashington.org/forum/topic/todays-meeting-agenda#post-422 Tue, 10 Aug 2010 10:43:21 +0000 Ammen Jordan 422@http://www.homeperformancewashington.org/forum/ New Member Introductions Group Introductions Presentations Summer Party Pics zHome – Dennis Rominger PSE HomePrint Program – Elise Worthy Policy: HomeStar gaining traction in the Senate – David Bangs Efficiency First National Workforce Training and Development - Gail Brownell Upcoming Trainings Member Announcements Social Hour Robert H on "Brick House Wall Insulation" http://www.homeperformancewashington.org/forum/topic/brick-house-wall-insulation#post-421 Tue, 03 Aug 2010 12:42:03 +0000 Robert H 421@http://www.homeperformancewashington.org/forum/ Hey guys, On the comment of Phenolic Foam, I thought that if a small amount of moisture/water is found leaking in, or as in condensate-producing conditions found in high relative humidity applications, (we here are not in a high humidity area) however, the Phenolic Foam seems to act like a sponge. When water saturates the Phenolic Foam insulation, it picks up chemicals out of the insulation. As it exits the board, it is very corrosive (with a low pH factor in the 1.5 to 3.5 range). The low pH precipitant is highly corrosive to any steel (nails, Etc) components found within the roof and roof structure (fasteners and any structural steel). I also heard this product is possibly being discontinued? I'm deviating here from the main point, but I'm curious! Thank you Robert Haverlock SBA Gregg Hartwell on "Marketing Committee - seeking help" http://www.homeperformancewashington.org/forum/topic/marketing-committee-seeking-help#post-420 Tue, 03 Aug 2010 11:44:03 +0000 Gregg Hartwell 420@http://www.homeperformancewashington.org/forum/ The Marketing committee has been working toward a marketing plan that will both bring customers to the members and raise public awareness for the home performance industry. As we move forward we could use some help in a few areas; Graphic design, Web design, and photos of members "in action". Marco has graciously offered his time and skills to take photos of members please email him and he will show up to take photos. <a href="mailto:nwmarco@gmail.com">nwmarco@gmail.com</a> feel free to contact me regarding any of the above. Gregg Hartwell 206.225.0743 <a href="mailto:gregghartwell@gmail.com">gregghartwell@gmail.com</a> Yves Vetter on "Brick House Wall Insulation" http://www.homeperformancewashington.org/forum/topic/brick-house-wall-insulation#post-419 Mon, 02 Aug 2010 22:26:48 +0000 Yves Vetter 419@http://www.homeperformancewashington.org/forum/ Hi Dave, hi Charlie, Pour foam is also way pricey. The JM rep told me Spider needs 5 holes each 5/8" in diameter to blow through brick. Sounds like a mess. And if the house has building paper over wood sheathing (like modern veneers done to best practices but uncommon in old houses around here I've seen) or even if it's just got bare ship lap sheathing (typical in homes I've seen) then drilling all these holes will destroy the drainage plane. This is vandalism in my book. Make sure there's no way to blow up through the bottom plate or down through the top plate. Keep the hole in the middle third of the plate. Spider is probably appropriate for this, but I've never used it. And if there's no room above the top plate in the attic, consider doing it by working in with a roofing job in the future. Cheers- David Vollan on "Brick House Wall Insulation" http://www.homeperformancewashington.org/forum/topic/brick-house-wall-insulation#post-418 Mon, 02 Aug 2010 10:03:26 +0000 David Vollan 418@http://www.homeperformancewashington.org/forum/ Hi Charlie, The only way I know of to insulate the stick framed cavity of a brick wall is with John Mansville's "spider" fiberglass insulation. The fibers are small enough they can be blown through a tube small enough to fit through the mortar joints in the brick. I only know of one installer locally and I doubt they have experience with drilling through brick, but you could give them a try (Quality Plus Insulation Brandon, 425 754-2449). Phenolic foam (not urethane) might be an option as well. According to local installers, urethane foams have typically have had very uneven coverage when applied in the "pour and fill" application. Regardless of which product they use I would be very clear with the installers that you do not want them to fill the 1" drainage cavity. If the brick is painted, and the exterior surface is acting as the drainage plane it might be ok, but if the brick is unpainted I definetely wouldn't fill the drainage plane as you could end up with an EIFS like failure. David Vollan Home Performance Inc. David Bangs on "Seattle Approves High Road Agreement for "Community Power Works"" http://www.homeperformancewashington.org/forum/topic/seattle-approves-high-road-agreement-for-community-power-works#post-417 Fri, 30 Jul 2010 23:57:41 +0000 David Bangs 417@http://www.homeperformancewashington.org/forum/ City of Seattle Office of the Mayor News For Immediate Release Contact: Jill Simmons July 30, 2010 Tel: (206) 684-9261 Community Power Works High Road Agreement to leverage $20 million in federal stimulus dollars awarded to Seattle SEATTLE – The Seattle City Council unanimously approved on Monday a Resolution adopting a Community High Road Agreement for residential buildings retrofitted as part of the city’s Community Power Works program, a US Department of Energy funded program to achieve deep energy efficiency in central and southeast Seattle. This residential building retrofit program will lead to the creation of thousands of high-quality, family-supporting jobs for qualified, historically underrepresented contractors and workers in the clean energy economy. The city and stakeholders – including public, private, nonprofit, community and labor institutions – collaborated to create this agreement, establishing a set of sustainable contracting standards and community benefits. “The High Road Agreement will provide the framework to ensure that when we invest in conservation, we do so not only with energy savings in mind, but also the health and vitality of our communities,” said Seattle Mayor Mike McGinn. “This program will ensure that where the city invests public dollars in energy conservation, we are creating career pathways and producing high quality work that saves residents money and follows our value of shared prosperity.” The Community High Road Agreement lays out requirements that direct employment, training and business opportunities to community residents, while imposing quality standards on training programs, working conditions, and contractor performance. Together, these standards will ensure that the city’s program creates high-quality, accessible jobs for area residents, while maximizing the environmental benefits of the program. In addition, the Agreement creates mechanisms for stakeholders to play a central role in the ongoing implementation, evaluation and adjustment of the program, thus ensuring that the program benefits from the diverse expertise in the community, while also strengthening accountability and democracy. “This project demonstrates the city’s commitment to economic development and community empowerment while meeting our environmental goals,” said Richard Conlin, President of the Seattle City Council. “I want to congratulate all the stakeholders who participated in this process to date.” The city of Seattle partnered with Green For All – an organization that advises local leaders nationwide to develop stronger clean energy programs – to create the High Road Agreement for the city’s home energy retrofit program. "Green For All is proud to partner with the city of Seattle in its bold and innovative approach to tackling climate change and unemployment,” said Phaedra Ellis-Lamkins, CEO of Green For All. “The Community High Road Agreement sets an example for other cities wanting to create quality jobs and pathways to prosperity in the clean energy economy.” “The Community High Road Agreement is an important first step, and I am honored to have been a part of it,” says Jason Lear, owner of Batt and Lear, a home performance contractor in Seattle. “We have a responsibility to make the most of our existing homes, and there is so much potential for energy improvement. Success of the program will require continued support and involvement from the community. We have a lot of work ahead of us. I look forward to working with the city as part of the Stakeholder Evaluation and Implementation Committee to ensure that these standards lead to new, good jobs while supporting the consistent, sustainable growth of the residential retrofit industry.” Said Steve Marquart of the Laborers International Union of North America, “LIUNA is excited to be part of the CPW project. We owe a lot to the community voices who urged us to aim high. I’m proud of the result which in some ways improves on Portland experience. For example, there’s a commitment to ongoing training and workforce development, post-hire, even for non-union employers. That’s a very significant achievement." Seattle’s Community Power Works program received a grant from the US Department of Energy to invest in intensive, neighborhood-based energy efficiency home improvements in South East Seattle. The city is will be taking the lessons learned from the program and sharing them widely, with the rest of this city, the state, and the nation. About Community Power Works Community Power Works is a $140 million neighborhood-based building retrofit program to achieve deep energy efficiency and create green jobs. The Initiative will: • Retrofit residential, commercial, hospital, and municipal buildings in the Central District and parts of Southeast Seattle. • Achieve between 15% and 45% energy savings per building retrofitted; • Reduce approximately 70,000 metric tons of greenhouse gases; • Create up to 2000 new living wage green jobs; • Leverage grant funds 7-to-1 with local investment. About the Community High Road Agreement This Agreement marks the City’s successful collaboration between a broad base of community stakeholders to help ensure equity for women, people of color, and other historically disadvantaged or underrepresented groups in the implementation of the residential elements of Community Power Works. Community stakeholders include: A. Phillip Randolph Institute, Batt and Lear, Building Trades Council, Casa Latina, Community Coalition for Environmental Justice, Cement Masons and Plasterers, Environmental Coalition of South Seattle, Got Green, Habitat Home Energy Audits, Home Performance, Inc., Home Performance Washington, HomeSight Washington, King County Labor Council, Laborers Local 242, LIUNA NW Region, Neighborworks, Northwest Laborer’s Training Fund, Pacific Northwest Regional Council of Carpenters, Painters and Allied Trades, Puget Sound Sage, Seattle City Light, Seattle Jobs Initiative, Seattle Vocational Institute, ShoreBank Enterprise Cascadia, Sisters in the Building Trades, Sound Alliance, South Seattle Community College, SustainableWorks, Umojafest P.E.A.C.E. Center, Urban League of Metropolitan Seattle, USI, Washington National Guard, Washington Weatherizers Association, Workforce Develolpment Council of Seattle-King County, YouthCare/YouthBuild, YouthSource. About “High Road” Standards High-road standards are program requirements that (i) ensure broad access to the program’s economic opportunities for all types of businesses and workers; (ii) support quality training programs that set trainees on long-term, sustainable, career paths; and (iii) ensure high-quality work and efficient program operation. This Stakeholder Committee met regularly for three months and developed the set of standards set forth in this Community High-Road Agreement. About Green For All Green For All is a national organization dedicated to improving the lives of all Americans through a clean energy economy. The organization works in collaboration with the business, government, labor, and grassroots communities to create and implement programs that increase quality jobs and opportunities in green industry – all while holding the most vulnerable people at the center of its agenda. ESperline on "Thermal Imaging Cameras" http://www.homeperformancewashington.org/forum/topic/thermal-imaging-cameras#post-416 Thu, 29 Jul 2010 12:19:47 +0000 ESperline 416@http://www.homeperformancewashington.org/forum/ I'm trying to find a way to afford an IR camera and I recently attended a seminar put on buy reps from Flir. I'm looking at a couple of low end cameras that have a minimum of 120x120 resolution. The reps tell me that with a Flir I'll get more business because with a Flir there will be greater name recognition. The problem I have with that logic is that I can't imagine a homeowner asking me if my camera was a Flir, or a Testo. I do however realize that Flir has been around longer; but, does that really matter? The Flir I7 seems like a nice little camera but the Testo 8751i is a bit cheaper with a little higher res. It appears that the Flir captures images in jpg format where the Testo is unclear about file type. Does anyone have any solid opinions as to low end camera types? Why? Charlie_Rogers on "Brick House Wall Insulation" http://www.homeperformancewashington.org/forum/topic/brick-house-wall-insulation#post-415 Tue, 27 Jul 2010 09:56:52 +0000 Charlie_Rogers 415@http://www.homeperformancewashington.org/forum/ I audited a brick house this week. There's no insulation in the walls. The customer doesn't want to blow from the inside (b/c the inside walls are papered and they're concerned about how the finishes will look). What are the options of insulating a brick building from the outside? I know someone who chiseled individual bricks out for each stud bay, but that was time-consuming. How big of a hole do foam installers need to fill a wall cavity? I'm wondering if it's possible to drill 1/2 inch holes between bricks and get into the wall cavity. Also, has anyone tried installing closed cell foam insulation in the 1 inch air gap between the brick and wood frame wall? Thanks - Charlie David Bangs on "Home Star Discussion: Discussion of Two Issues." http://www.homeperformancewashington.org/forum/topic/home-star-discussion-make-your-voice-heard-on-two-issues#post-414 Tue, 27 Jul 2010 07:44:10 +0000 David Bangs 414@http://www.homeperformancewashington.org/forum/ An update on this issue: Efficiency First policy committee members are all strongly in favor of leaving the Home Star bill exactly as it is, with BPI Accreditation required, and all rebates going through contractors. They feel the best strategy is to defend the current bill and oppose any ammendments. Ammendments would be distracting and we don't know what the law would end up like if random ammendments were accepted. They feel that rebates should go through contractors so that all customers benefit up front, in the same way, and so that contractors are on the hook if the job fails to meet quality requirements. They feel that BPI Accreditation is necessary because 100% testing can't produce quality. The only way to get quality is to have trained and certfified staff that know building science. Still, I'm wondering what others think, hailing from a state with a fledgling industry. David Bangs on "Home Star Discussion: Discussion of Two Issues." http://www.homeperformancewashington.org/forum/topic/home-star-discussion-make-your-voice-heard-on-two-issues#post-413 Mon, 26 Jul 2010 23:51:45 +0000 David Bangs 413@http://www.homeperformancewashington.org/forum/ There are quite a few groups wanting to toss the BPI Accreditation requirement in Home Star and to have rebates paid directly to homeowners. These are big groups, and they did manage to get changes passed in the House version of the legislation. This is a dilemma: On one hand, I feel that BPI training is important, and that customers will be more incented by up front rebates. On the other hand, certain states might cream us in the race for dollars. New York has hundreds of BPI accredited contractors and we have zero. Will the money be gone before Washington's contractors get accredited? And, how many of our contractors can afford to float rebates and get paid 30 days after the job is complete. ? How about a compromise? 1) Non-BPI Accredited contractors could still participate but only with 100% third party rater verification. BPI Accredited contractors would benefit with a lower third party inspection rate. (15% as written currently) 2) Contractors could choose whether to advandce the homeowner rebate. If they cannot afford to do so, the customer would get a rebate check in the mail directly from the rebate aggregator. The market would reward contractors able to advance the rebate, but it would not be required. What do you guys think? Please reply to the forum or otherwise let me know what you think. --David HPW President, info at homeperformancewashington.org David Bangs on "ACCA Position on Home Star" http://www.homeperformancewashington.org/forum/topic/acca-position-on-home-star#post-411 Mon, 26 Jul 2010 23:36:48 +0000 David Bangs 411@http://www.homeperformancewashington.org/forum/ As Home Star is progressing through the Senate, some very large contractor associations are advocating for changes. Of course Efficiency likes the bill just as it is. The following letter was sent to the leaders of the United States Senate from Air Conditioning Contractors of America (ACCA) Chairman John Sedine and ACCA President Paul Stalknecht: Dear Senators, We understand that last week you received letters from the Home Star Coalition (HSC) and the Building Performance Institute (BPI) that specifically referenced our organization, the Air Conditioning Contractors of America (ACCA). We are writing to clear up several inaccurate statements included in those letters, further explain our position on the proposed "Home Star" legislation under consideration in the Senate, and seek your support in making the Home Star program a successful one. The way to do this is to simply change two small provisions in the existing draft language. We are sure that the Home Star Coalition has the very best intentions, but since the success of the Home Star program will depend on its implementation by qualified contracting businesses, we want to make sure that you hear from those of us with an understanding of actual contracting operations. The Home Star Rebate Structure First, the HSC is correct when they write that there is "consensus among contractors" regarding the ideal structure of a rebate incentive. However, the contractor consensus is the opposite of the HSC's position! In fact, on July 19 the Senate leadership received a letter from six national contracting associations, including ACCA, representing over 193,500 contractors nationwide, expressing the true contractor consensus, which is that the most efficient and effective way to offer a rebate program to homeowners is to pay the homeowner, and not require a small business contractor to float a loan it can ill afford for a lengthy period of time. Yes, the proposed Home Star legislation mandates that rebate aggregators pay contractors within 30 days (although the 30 days would start with the filing of paperwork, NOT with the actual purchase of equipment, which may occur weeks before the job is done). The question we ask is, "Or what?" The actual reality is -- our thousands of members have learned firsthand through participation in multiple incentive and rebate programs in states all over the country … the deadlines are often missed, and the cash-strapped contractor has no real recourse. Even if there are "penalties" the contractor still doesn't get paid. We are talking about small business livelihood here, real people, real jobs … not an abstract number on a ledger in a corner office on Wall Street. For example, one small contractor in Maryland told us this week that it took 14 months for a rebate aggregator to "catch up" to a 30-day deadline for providing rebates of only $350-500 per customer, a much smaller amount than Home Star rebates would be. Fortunately for this contractor, the program sent the money to the homeowner. Otherwise, the contractor would have built up more than $53,000 in accumulated receivables, and may have been forced to lay an employee off. Residential contractors are almost all very small businesses, which as you know are facing a serious credit crunch right now. Requiring these contractors to become bankers will place highly-skilled, highly-qualified contracting businesses at a competitive disadvantage, and funnel most of the Home Star rebate jobs to large chains and national franchise operations. I'm sure you agree that the best way to ensure the development of a "green collar" workforce that is sustainable for the long-term is to support the community-based businesses who are our economy's driving force … not place them at a disadvantage. The HSC writes that they believe a homeowner rebate will create bureaucratic delays and result in the filing of improper forms by homeowners. This is wholly inaccurate, as we have never suggested that homeowners should be required to file paperwork. In fact, in order for the program to work properly, contractors should complete paperwork on behalf of the homeowner (just as they do now for many state incentive programs). We only ask that the program be structured so that the federal rebate is sent to the homeowner, after the sale, not carried as a receivable by the contractor. Similarly, the HSC's argument that a homeowner rebate would increase rebate volume does not make sense to us. The volume of rebates depends on the number of jobs performed, not at whom the rebate is directed. It would only increase rebate volume to the extent that expanding the number of participating contractors will increase opportunities for homeowners to conduct efficiency improvements to their homes, which is the purpose of the program. Accreditation Requirements for "Gold Star" We believe the accreditation requirements for participation in the "Gold Star" program, as written, are unnecessarily burdensome on small business, and unnecessary for meeting the program's goals. Here's why. The "Gold Star" program is designed to promote whole house energy improvement, and include documentation of the work. That documentation is done essentially through the performance of a software evaluation before the work is done, and a software evaluation after the work is done. But the bill also requires that contractors be accredited by the Building Performance Institute (BPI), or meet some other requirements to be set by the administration, but which are not stated in the legislation. The HSC states that they support the specific inclusion of BPI in the bill, because "contractors have an immediate path to certification" in a program that will "be spent out over two full years." If the purpose of the Gold Star program is to promote whole home energy improvements, then let's make the bill about promoting whole home energy improvements. We think that documentation is a good idea. So we believe that contractors applying for a Gold Star rebate on a homeowners' behalf should also be required to include an independent report from a third-party energy auditor. But we do NOT believe that contractors should be required to attain accreditation from any specific organization, because there is no evidence that any such accreditation program in existence has any impact on actual energy improvement. The Home Star legislation as drafted would force highly-experienced, high-quality small contracting businesses to do one of three things: • Spend thousands of dollars on training and equipment in order to compete for Home Star jobs; or, • Choose not to participate in the Home Star program, thus denying homeowners choice and funneling federal rebate dollars to a smaller number of firms; or, • Become a sub-contractor to someone who may have little more than a few hours of classroom (or online) training, but is somehow considered by this legislation to be more "qualified" in home performance. In its letter to you, BPI wrote, "BPI has implemented processes to ramp up accreditation quickly through an online application which allows companies meeting the minimum requirements to be accredited within hours." We assume BPI wrote this to convince you that, despite the fact that there are 29 states with NO BPI-accredited contractors, and more than 80% of BPI-accredited contractors are in only TWO STATES, BPI believes the accreditation process is so simple and quick that there will soon be many more accredited contractors. But they only raise further questions about the requirement. If this accreditation is really so easy to get, how beneficial can it be? It certainly takes a lot more than a few hours, or even a few weeks, or even a few months - to develop expertise in quality mechanical systems, which are the largest users of energy in America's homes. And it certainly takes a lot more time than that to develop the customer relationships and quality reputations that small HVACR contractors have built all across America, in every state, and every community. We think there is a better, simpler, far more practical and far more beneficial approach to Gold Star. Leave in an accreditation option if you must. But also allow contractors the option of foregoing the unnecessary accreditation, and hiring an independent third-party recognized rater (e.g., RESNET-recognized HERS rater, BPI rater, etc.) to document the efficacy of Gold Star jobs. We remain strongly supportive of the goals of the Home Star legislation. However, we also feel strongly that this legislation, if it is to meet its goals, must take into consideration the operational and economic realities of those companies who actually work in the field and will actually conduct the retrofits. We pledge to work with you toward the development of a Home Star program that will work for all of America, including the two important changes we describe above. Sincerely, THE AIR CONDITIONING CONTRACTORS OF AMERICA John Sedine Chairman of the Board Paul T. Stalknecht President & Chief Executive Officer Corey Fitch on "loaner combustion gas analyzer or CO tester" http://www.homeperformancewashington.org/forum/topic/loaner-combustion-gas-analyzer-or-co-tester#post-410 Sun, 25 Jul 2010 18:39:12 +0000 Corey Fitch 410@http://www.homeperformancewashington.org/forum/ Bob Thoreson just came to the rescue. Thanks to everyone that offered to help. Corey Fitch on "loaner combustion gas analyzer or CO tester" http://www.homeperformancewashington.org/forum/topic/loaner-combustion-gas-analyzer-or-co-tester#post-409 Sat, 24 Jul 2010 15:35:19 +0000 Corey Fitch 409@http://www.homeperformancewashington.org/forum/ The O2 senor on my monoxer went out this afternoon. Does anyone have an analyzer or even a snifit to loan/rent out? I'm in a bit of a bind because I need it for an audit Monday morning. Please call me if you are able to help. Thanks! Corey Fitch 206.714.4632 David Bangs on "Limited Senate Energy Bill To Include Home Star" http://www.homeperformancewashington.org/forum/topic/limited-senate-energy-bill-include-home-star#post-408 Thu, 22 Jul 2010 20:25:18 +0000 David Bangs 408@http://www.homeperformancewashington.org/forum/ Today, Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid announced a limited energy bill. To the disappointment of many, this bill does not tackle energy in a comprehensive manner and does not contain a specific mechanism to limit carbon emissions. The Strategy: Put together a bill full of components with bi-partison support so that it can pass. Home Star made the cut! With bi-partisan support and champions such as Republican Senators Olympia Snow and Lindsey Graham, it can pass and cannot be filibustered! We have a bill to support. Of course, we also want a more comprehensive energy bill. We do need climate legislation and sweeping energy reform. Perhaps, one thing at a time? Today's media coverage focused on disappointment over what was not included in the bill. Next, the media will discover Home Star. Our industry will get a lot of attention. Stay tuned for more information on how to support the bill and be ready for Home Star. --David President, Home Performance Washington DanWildenhaus on "Opt In to WSU Auditor List" http://www.homeperformancewashington.org/forum/topic/opt-in-to-wsu-auditor-list#post-407 Fri, 16 Jul 2010 15:04:57 +0000 DanWildenhaus 407@http://www.homeperformancewashington.org/forum/ I HIGHLY recommend all HPW members trained to do blower door and duct blaster testing to sign up for this! The Washington State University Energy Program will provide this list to builders (and anyone that asks) who are looking to meet code next year. This is a free way to generate business. Do NOT miss out! Dan Wildenhaus Markus Walbaum on "SolarFest at Shoreline Community College, this Fri/Sat July 16-17" http://www.homeperformancewashington.org/forum/topic/solarfest-at-shoreline-community-college-this-frisat-july-16-17#post-406 Fri, 16 Jul 2010 01:34:34 +0000 Markus Walbaum 406@http://www.homeperformancewashington.org/forum/ Hear about the Power of One solar car (www.xof1.com) at Friday night's keynote. Get refreshed at the beer garden and hear tunes with your friends. Hear David Bangs & Dan Wildenhouse, and David Vollan (and others) give presentations. SolarFest Renewable Energy & Sustainable Living Fair Location! Shoreline Community College Friday, July 16, 2010 7p - 11p Saturday, July 17, 2010 10am - 8pm <a href="http://www.shorelinesolar.org" rel="nofollow">http://www.shorelinesolar.org</a> for more info and on facebook Ammen Jordan on "Opt In to WSU Auditor List" http://www.homeperformancewashington.org/forum/topic/opt-in-to-wsu-auditor-list#post-403 Mon, 12 Jul 2010 10:21:44 +0000 Ammen Jordan 403@http://www.homeperformancewashington.org/forum/ Washington State University is getting ready to publish a list of Building Technicians and Analysts, which will include people with PTCS certifications for Retrofit, New Construction and Heat Pump Commissioning. This list will also include all Energy Star People, HERS Raters and Otherwise Authorized Raters. It will also include people with Energy Code Compliance rating. This is an “opt IN” list! To be included you must reply YES to this email. (OR EMAIL MARLA HERE: <a href="mailto:hacklanderm@energy.wsu.edu">hacklanderm@energy.wsu.edu</a>) You may receive this more than once and my apologies for that, but this is coming from a huge list. Thank you for your reply and REMEMBER ~ you will not be included unless you reply YES to this email. Marla Marla Hacklander Energy Star Homes Northwest Washington State SCO Data Manager Energy Star Homes Northwest Training Coordinator Energy Project Analyst <a href="mailto:hacklanderm@energy.wsu.edu">hacklanderm@energy.wsu.edu</a> David Bangs on "Webinar Recording: Getting Gold Star Ready - Roadmap to BPI Accreditation" http://www.homeperformancewashington.org/forum/topic/webinar-recording-getting-gold-star-ready-roadmap-to-bpi-accreditation#post-402 Sun, 11 Jul 2010 16:35:57 +0000 David Bangs 402@http://www.homeperformancewashington.org/forum/ Efficiency First recently held a webinar to help contractors understand the path to BPI Accreditation. The recording is available online: <a href="http://www.utilityexchange.org/webinar/20100701/" rel="nofollow">http://www.utilityexchange.org/webinar/20100701/</a> If you are a contractor - this may be worth a listen. Getting GOLD STAR Ready: Roadmap to Accreditation with Building Performance Institute for Home Improvement Contractors <a href="http://www.utilityexchange.org/webinar/20100701/" rel="nofollow">http://www.utilityexchange.org/webinar/20100701/</a> David Bangs on "Social Networking Links for Efficiency First" http://www.homeperformancewashington.org/forum/topic/social-networking-links-for-efficiency-first#post-401 Sat, 10 Jul 2010 14:15:37 +0000 David Bangs 401@http://www.homeperformancewashington.org/forum/ From Jared Asch: Efficiency First is ramping up its online social media presence with an expansive and aggressive strategy. Part of that strategy is to get everyone who is affiliated with Efficiency First to join our social networks. Currently we have accounts with Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn. If you have profiles with any of these three please take a moment and join Efficiency First. Connect with Efficiency First’s social media profiles will help Efficiency First expand. After joining post on your site about it. Update your blog, tweet about joining Efficiency first and so on. Follow Us on Twitter Here <a href="http://twitter.com/Efficiencyfirst" rel="nofollow">http://twitter.com/Efficiencyfirst</a> Join Us on Facebook Here <a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Efficiency-First/137212176291215" rel="nofollow">http://www.facebook.com/pages/Efficiency-First/137212176291215</a> Connect With Us on LinkedIn Here <a href="http://www.linkedin.com/groups?about=&gid=2682173&report%2Esuccess=r3Tayp0nRRro3Er8iWS8vO-u_mFd11ndGIOEdAI27ES3KgpplepkOcIgotS3mJWzXqb2u21wqjDJwM" rel="nofollow">http://www.linkedin.com/groups?about=&gid=2682173&report%2Esuccess=r3Tayp0nRRro3Er8iWS8vO-u_mFd11ndGIOEdAI27ES3KgpplepkOcIgotS3mJWzXqb2u21wqjDJwM</a> David Bangs on "Get HOME STAR in the Small Business Jobs Bill now!" http://www.homeperformancewashington.org/forum/topic/get-home-star-in-the-small-business-jobs-bill-now#post-400 Wed, 07 Jul 2010 09:20:07 +0000 David Bangs 400@http://www.homeperformancewashington.org/forum/ Last week the U.S. Senate began considering a legislative package targeting job creation in the small business sector. We believe that the proposed HOME STAR energy retrofit program - with over 1,500 small businesses as part of the HOME STAR Coalition -- should be a part of this important legislation. Your immediate action is needed to help us spread the word. WHAT YOU CAN DO: We urge all HOME STAR Coalition members to send a loud and clear message to the Senate that America's local home energy contractors are ready to ramp up hiring once the HOME STAR program becomes a reality-and that the current small-business jobs bill is the right opportunity to make it happen. YOU CAN HELP WITH TWO EASY STEPS: STEP 1 -- CALL YOUR SENATORS: Please call the offices of both senators from your state this week, and follow up with a letter or e-mail message to drive the point home. Calling your senators only takes a few minutes: Make the call now. Click here to enter your zip code and view the direct phone numbers for the senators from your state. <a href="http://salsa.wiredforchange.com/dia/track.jsp?v=2&c=oJ5oJorFRyWma%2FQffFpbimCjfli6NWXC" rel="nofollow">http://salsa.wiredforchange.com/dia/track.jsp?v=2&c=oJ5oJorFRyWma%2FQffFpbimCjfli6NWXC</a> Review these suggested HOME STAR Talking Points <a href="http://salsa.wiredforchange.com/dia/track.jsp?v=2&c=VNtQsFsGqS20NEZkTqCHCOvHTn%2BR3R2C" rel="nofollow">http://salsa.wiredforchange.com/dia/track.jsp?v=2&c=VNtQsFsGqS20NEZkTqCHCOvHTn%2BR3R2C</a> then call the two Senate offices on your list. When the attendant answers, tell them that you are a constituent and would like to discuss including the HOME STAR energy retrofit program in the Small Business Jobs Act in the Senate. Explain how stimulating demand for home energy retrofits is one of the best ways to create good jobs for unemployed Americans in small home energy businesses nationwide-jobs that cannot be outsourced overseas. STEP 2 -- FOLLOW UP WITH AN E-MAIL: After you've made the phone calls, it's quick and easy to follow up with an e-mail message using the Web form on Efficiency First's legislative action page <a href="http://salsa.wiredforchange.com/dia/track.jsp?v=2&c=fF6%2FWPnYiMkHNGdkn5iDVOvHTn%2BR3R2C" rel="nofollow">http://salsa.wiredforchange.com/dia/track.jsp?v=2&c=fF6%2FWPnYiMkHNGdkn5iDVOvHTn%2BR3R2C</a> After entering your zip code, you'll see a Web form that includes a sample letter. Modify the subject line and letter content as you wish, enter your name and contact information below, then click "Send Your Message" and you're done. Each call made and every email sent helps get the message through that our country needs HOME STAR now. Thanks for your support, The HOME STAR Coalition tdzyn and services on "One-part foam incompatible with plastic plumbing?" http://www.homeperformancewashington.org/forum/topic/one-part-foam-incompatible-with-plastic-plumbing#post-399 Wed, 07 Jul 2010 04:59:33 +0000 tdzyn and services 399@http://www.homeperformancewashington.org/forum/ I am thankful for living in a time where I can get a hold of products that are more apt to be zero off-gassing or lo VOC and lo--particulate products, by comparison to many of their predecessors, some of which still linger, instead of being removed, when a fresh round of newer product is changed-in during retrofits. Scott Finley on "NOW HIRING – Home Performance / Weatherization Installers" http://www.homeperformancewashington.org/forum/topic/now-hiring-%e2%80%93-home-performance-weatherization-installers#post-398 Fri, 02 Jul 2010 13:00:32 +0000 Scott Finley 398@http://www.homeperformancewashington.org/forum/ Put your construction experience and training to work and learn from the best by joining our hard-working, fun-loving and professional crews. Our green energy retrofit company has been at it longer than any other in Seattle, offering home performance evaluations and complete retrofit services. Find out more about our company at <a href="http://www.myatmosphere.biz" rel="nofollow">http://www.myatmosphere.biz</a> Job Description: The Weatherization Installer works as part of a team to perform a variety of home energy and environmental retrofit improvements. Duties may include: • Basic structural repairs, install doors or windows, general weatherization • Seal air leakage in building envelope; preparation for insulation • Repair and seal ducts of heating and ventilation systems • Assist in performing building air leakage and pressure testing Qualifications: • Good communications skills and basic math and computer skills • Working knowledge of basic construction, building components, tools and materials • Minimum 2 years experience in building construction, rehab, insulation, HVAC and/or inspection. • Valid Washington State drivers license • Willingness to learn home performance analytic skills • Positive attitude Compensation: • Starting wage: $16-$21 per hour, DOE. (Some work is State Prevailing Wage at $21 - $35 per hour.) • Benefit options or performance incentives available after completion of trial period. • Training and opportunities for advancement, including BPI certification • Equal Opportunity Employer Attach Resume' and apply to: <a href="mailto:info@myatmosphere.biz">info@myatmosphere.biz</a> David Vollan on "Tankless H2O CO readings" http://www.homeperformancewashington.org/forum/topic/tankless-h2o-co-readings#post-397 Fri, 02 Jul 2010 09:11:58 +0000 David Vollan 397@http://www.homeperformancewashington.org/forum/ Hi Charlie, According to my HVAC textbook the ppm "air free" max allowed by ANSI, AGA and EPA for gas furnaces is 400 ppm which translates to about 225ppm not air free. If you are using a standard Bacharach monoxer I don't think you can measure CO air free. According to my HVAC instructor anything over 50pm (not air free) indicates that something isn't quite right. Maybe there is a slightly higher standard for tankless units, but doesn't mean they should be producing that much CO. I met a family last year that had CO poisoning (head aches and cold like symptoms) for months until they finaly got the PSE gas techs out. It turned out that the stainless exaust ductwork was under positive pressure and leaking CO into their house. All they needed to do was seal the joints with high temp silicone. I measured my own tankless unit (not condensing) and got from 30 to 50 ppm (150 to 250 ppm air free). Condensing furnaces suposedly tend to have higher co so condensing tankless units probably do as well, but 200 to 400ppm (not air free) sounds grosely negligent, especially when tankless units tend to be vented through walls(I think the exhaust is supossed to be located something like 10 ft from a window openin). David Vollan Home Performance Inc. Charlie_Rogers on "Tankless H2O CO readings" http://www.homeperformancewashington.org/forum/topic/tankless-h2o-co-readings#post-394 Thu, 01 Jul 2010 19:19:54 +0000 Charlie_Rogers 394@http://www.homeperformancewashington.org/forum/ I've recently ran into 2 different new condensing, tankless water heaters with CO readings between 200 and 400 pppm CO. I had one of my customers call their installer (a well known and highly regarded HVAC company locally), thinking that they would come back and fix it. They pushed back saying that the higher levels were acceptable (according to some federal standard) for tankless water heaters, because they require so much output....sounds like BS to me, but maybe I am missing something? BPI clearly does not make an exception and every PSE tech I have talked to would have capped the gas line to an appliance producing that much CO. Suggestions? Insight? trius on "One-part foam incompatible with plastic plumbing?" http://www.homeperformancewashington.org/forum/topic/one-part-foam-incompatible-with-plastic-plumbing#post-393 Tue, 29 Jun 2010 22:09:42 +0000 trius 393@http://www.homeperformancewashington.org/forum/ We use polyurethane foam to seal around cPVC pipe almost everyday and have for many years. I have never noticed a problem or been told of any restrictions. I have been told of incompatiblilites between polyurethane caulk and lexan, plexiglass and other plastics. I was told to use silicon caulk to avoid a reaction. The link below describes the spray foam manufacturers perspective. <a href="http://www.sprayfoam.org/index.php?page_id=4526" rel="nofollow">http://www.sprayfoam.org/index.php?page_id=4526</a> Which includes the statement: January 5, 2009 - Over the past several months the building construction community has questioned the compatibility between spray polyurethane foams and pipes and fittings made with cPVC. It is important to note we are not aware of any cPVC failure that was a result of a chemical incompatibility with properly applied SPF. Mark Rector DanWildenhaus on "One-part foam incompatible with plastic plumbing?" http://www.homeperformancewashington.org/forum/topic/one-part-foam-incompatible-with-plastic-plumbing#post-392 Tue, 29 Jun 2010 17:39:54 +0000 DanWildenhaus 392@http://www.homeperformancewashington.org/forum/ Whether it really reacts or not, it is true that some inspectors have dinged Burnham Insulation for this. The claim is made due to a mention on the MSDS for the fire rated foam. This applies to both PEX and fire suppression systems. I agree this is unreal, but it is happening. On the plus side of these types of issues, Advanced Energy is working with NREL to come up with universal specifications for weatherization/home performance work. This could lead to trainable standards and accepted QA requirements. Before you ask, yes they have included people from the northwest to participate. The Building Performance Center and Delta T have both participated in this endeavor. Dan