As completion of construction nears for the Zero Energy Idea House on West Lake Sammamish Parkway in Bellevue, members of the Washington State University’s Extension Energy Program and Fluke conducted thermal testing and a blower door test to measure the building’s envelop.

The brightly painted 1,630-square-foot home being built by Shirey Construction aims to combine energy generation and conservation techniques to result in minimal total energy bills.

The energy thermal testing was used to spot air leaks, moisture and condensation problems throughout the interior of the house. The doors were sealed and pressurized prior to the beginning of the testing, allowing the technology to visually show the energy effectiveness of the home at its current stage. Shirey Contracting will then make improvements to reduce energy waste and improve the integrity of the building’s envelope.

The Zero Energy Idea House was designed by Shirey as a tool for teaching the homebuilding and consumer community how to construct an energy-efficient house from the ground up.

The Zero Energy Idea House will feature structural insulated panels, photovoltaic solar panels, energy-efficient window, real-time monitoring for energy use, dual flush toilets, a rainwater collection system and nontoxic finishes on flooring and cabinetry.

“The idea behind this project is to help educate consumers about the importance of low-energy building and upgrades,” Donna Shirey explained at the test site. “Even if you are not starting from scratch, there are so many small changes you can add to your current home to save energy and the environment.”

Lindsay Larin can be reached at 425.453.4602.

To learn more about the Zero Energy Idea House, visit www.zeroenergyideahouse.com.