Green building
The Thompsons also implemented technology to make the house as efficient as possible, including programmable and voice-controlled solutions for active heating and cooling: A Tivok Heat Pump with a 110-gallon (415-liter) storage tank supplies hot water and hydronic heating. “It can hold hot water at [140 degrees Fahrenheit] for 24 hours, so it functions as a battery,” Leanne says. “Timers automatically heat water using solar energy during the day for when we use it at nighttime.”
A smart thermostat with four room sensors controls heating, cooling and fans. It’s automated using geo-location technology and is voice enabled. Wall radiators with smart radiator valves are programmable and voice controlled to allow for automated zoning. A 5-kilowatt reverse-cycle smart air conditioning unit uses a web service that allows smart devices to work with a voice assistant. Smart ceiling fans are programmable and voice activated.
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