Old house with various additions was completely remodeled in 2012 and now includes ductless heat pump, grid-tied PV system, rainwater catchment, both fenced and unfenced deer-proof permaculture gardens, and Salt Spring’s first Chevy Bolt.
History
The original house was built by the Beddis brothers in 1921 as a wedding gift for their eldest brother. An extension was added in 1967, and another in the 1980s. The current owners did a complete remodel in 2012, and have since added a number of eco-features.
Heating system
The in-floor hydronic heating system installed in 2012 did not provide sufficient heat and has been replaced with a Fujitsu ductless mini-split heat pump with one base unit, two ceiling units and one high wall unit. The heat pump plus a woodstove keeps the house warm. More energy is saved by closing off and heating only the areas of the house in use.
Lights and appliances
Lighting is LED throughout, and appliances are water and energy-efficient. The kitchen range top is electric induction, which is extremely energy-efficient in addition to being very fast and safe.
Solar electric system and electric car
A grid-tied 2.64 kW PV system offsets electricity costs, and generates more than enough power to charge the new all-electric Chevy Bolt, which has a range of 383 km.
Rainwater harvesting
A large–1,000 imp. gal.–tank stores rainwater from the garage roof for garden irrigation. Additional, smaller tanks are located on the side of the house.
Emergency power
A near-disaster during a power outage prompted the purchase of a Xantrex Powerhub 1800, a small emergency back-up system to run the sump-pump during power failures.
Permaculture gardens
Preliminary work included removal of blackberries, an old concrete slab, some asphalt paving, and an assortment of found objects. Water was diverted away from the house. The area to the south and west of the house was enclosed with deer-proof fencing. This area is primarily for vegetables and fruit trees. The unfenced area to the east and north includes native species, herbs and a surprising variety of ornamentals. Hugelkultur beds–raised beds of woody debris covered in soil–provide fertility and moisture. With the exception of new plantings, the unfenced area is not irrigated.
For more information:
Heat pump
Matt Beck, Salish Sea Heating & Ventilation
250-858-0537
PV system
Kjell Liem, Saltspring Solar
(250) 538-7855
Chevy Bolt + Chevy Volt
James Brennan, Dueck