House #1: Fun with HVAC :)

So I was feeling that I didn't understand the major systems going into the house, like for example...what are those electrical-y box-like things in the basement?  It's all very important and I felt like I should understand it all a bit better, if only to be able to care for our new home properly.

I met our builder out at the site.  He and his HVAC contractor were so patient and I feel I learned a lot about our home.  Here's a summary...It's really a lot.

• We have a tankless water heater.  Brand: Rinnai.  Both Becky and Wendell have stressed that we will likely have a delay we need to get used to with the tankless unit, -- once shower/bath turned on to get hot water- maybe several minutes. But once we have hot water up there- we will have no shortages.
• We have a dual heat pump (American Standard: Silver Series) with a gas furnace backup which means the gas will kick in when it becomes too cold to heat efficiently with the heat pump.  This unit is >90% efficient.  The top of the unit in the basement houses the AC coil and the bottom is the furnace.  It is connected to the unit outside.
• Gas will also be used for the fireplace.
• We have a 2 zone system.
• There are (6) returns that will have 12 x 12 filters (bedrooms, etc) and (2) 12 X 20 filters by the front door.  Wendell says to change filters every 3-4 months and says 3M makes a good one.  He likes filter.com as a source to buy.  My research indicates pleated definitely way to go. Note to self: check out prettier duct covers.  Wendell says fine as long as they are "filter grills"
• Our ducts are laid out with a "trunk system" layout... with ducts of varying thickness rather than a "spider system" so that air is moved throughout house in a very balanced way.
• IF we install a barn or other door in our study, we need to be cognizant NOT to cover returns...this will interfere with system running smoothly.  All ducts are sealed with mastic.  Around unit in basement, some flexible parts are put together with mastic tape

Foam is used around the windows, with caulk around perimeter of room and between some wall boards.

**Note: If ac running, don't leave basement door open.  This can cause condensation from ducts.  Door can be open for air- but if so, turn off AC.

Bath fans- Wendell installs bigger ones so that more air is pulled out efficiently.  Bath lights will be tied to fans at switch.

This was a very note-like post, but it was SO much information.  I'm planning to take pictures this week before drywall comes up- I'm thinking if we ever need to know where electrical/other stuff was...this blog will be a good reference.