Bass Circle Apartments – Enterprise Green Communities
Project Background:
The Bass Circle Apartments in Washington, DC recently underwent a large renovation, the goal of which was to transform and preserve the apartments as quality affordable housing for its current residents, while making a lasting, positive impact on the surrounding neighborhood.
The project consists of 119 rental units in five brick garden-style apartment buildings. The buildings were in need of substantial rehabilitation and extensive site improvements. Since its renovation, the project now offers long-term affordability to low-income tenants and aids in the revitalization of one of DC’s most struggling neighborhoods.
Project Services:
Steven Winter Associates, Inc. provided Energy Modeling, and Green Program Certification Services to the project.
Primary Energy Conservation Measures:
New insulation, HVAC systems, windows, and exhaust systems have dramatically improved the energy efficiency and indoor air quality in the units. ENERGY STAR appliances, low-flow faucets and toilets, and onsite stormwater management round out the sustainability features. Energy modeling was performed using REM/Rate software to project estimated utility bills and generate a HERS rating. Additionally, blower door, duct leakage and exhaust fan testing was completed as well as site inspections to confirm Enterprise Green Communities measures are met.
Onsite training and consulting was performed on critical air-sealing details. Infiltration has decreased both from outside and between units. Blower door directed air sealing efforts have resulted in a 65% reduction in infiltration from tests done before renovations began.
New ductwork has brought duct leakage down from 40%+ tested prior to renovations to below 3%. This impressive achievement results in making the units more comfortable and much more efficient to heat and cool.
*This project was completed by Everyday Green, LLC, now part of Steven Winter Associates, Inc.