Hallmark-Southwest Builds Energy Efficient Home for Extreme Environment

Online, November 22, 2011 (Newswire.com) - Extreme climates typically result in extremely high energy usage for residents. This will not be the case for those living in the new home built by Hallmark-Southwest on the grounds of Our Lady of the Desert Monastery in Gobernador, NM. The new residence is approximately 1200 square feet with living quarters for four. The most impressive features of the home are all related to energy efficiency, cost savings and ease of management.

The new home, specifically built to be exceedingly energy efficient, is maintained by a smart home system that monitors overall energy demands. Environmental conditions are monitored in each room of the new home individually and the smart home system utilizes this data to modify energy efficiency systems for maximum return. "The smart home system, in relation to the home itself, is much like the relationship between the human mind and body; the body constantly sends signals to the brain and the brain uses this sense data to keep the body as close to homeostasis as possible," said Luca Brammer, Director of Business Development for Hallmark-Southwest. Tied to the smart home system are various energy efficiency features such as a solar photovoltaic system, a solar thermal system and mechanical ventilation systems. "We are grateful for the opportunity to build this new home as it showcases our continued focus on cutting edge technology and improved energy efficiency," remarked Mr. Brammer. "The location of the new home is unique, with high winds, extreme cold in the winter and extreme heat in the summer, we have met the challenge to build a home that is nearly self sufficient in the face of some of the harshest conditions." This new home and its cutting edge energy efficiency features is a collaboration of efforts between Hallmark-Southwest, Green Ribbon Homes and Lifestyle Homes of Durango, CO.

The new home features a metal roof to stand the test of time and the weather in Gobernador, NM. Zoned space heating is utilized in each room and is monitored by the smart home system independently. Each room is mechanically ventilated ensuring improved air quality and energy efficiency. Water saving features are installed as well; each bathroom detects human presence triggering a hot water D'mand system such that when hot water is needed, water is not wasted by running it cold and waiting for it to warm up. The utility room features part of the solar thermal system and domestic space heating as well as two main electrical panels providing a redundant power supply.

Hallmark-Southwest Corporation: Craftsmanship Lives

About Hallmark-Southwest Corporation

Hallmark-Southwest Corporation is an employee owned company started in 1976 by craftsmen in the home building industry. Hallmark-Southwest offers a wide range of manufactured home models built with both quality of construction and energy efficiency in mind. The Hallmark-Southwest Corporation lives by the motto "Craftsmanship Lives."